The Three Major Waterfalls of Jeju Island: Legendary Scenic Spots Like a Fairyland

Jeju Island is one of South Korea’s popular tourist destinations. It is a volcanic island formed by volcanic activity and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 due to its unique basalt, black volcanic rocks, and lava caves spread across the entire region. In addition to these spectacular volcanic landscapes, Jeju’s waterfalls are also well worth visiting. Below are introductions to three major waterfall scenic spots on Jeju Island. Each waterfall is surrounded by towering rock formations that seem to reach the clouds, creating a majestic feeling of cascading from the heavens. They not only offer a chance to appreciate natural wonders but are also perfect for escaping the heat.

Night view of Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (Photo / Jeju Tourism Organization)

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
 
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall is the largest waterfall on Jeju Island. The rocks above the waterfall resemble the outline of a human face, which has sparked much discussion. The valley here features a U-shaped gorge formed by subsidence, uplift, and lava faults, along with rich vegetation.

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (Photo / Jeju Tourism Organization)

Standing 22 meters high and 12 meters wide, the eastern side of the valley contains a prehistoric site from the Paleolithic era (approximately 25,000 BC). Legend has it that a divine dragon lives in the pool, and whenever there is a drought, holding a rain prayer ceremony here will immediately summon its presence.
 
Address: Namseong Middle Road, Seogwipo-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province (Cheonji-dong)

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (Photo / Jeju Tourism Organization)

Jeongbang Waterfall
 
Jeongbang Waterfall is 23 meters high and up to 8 meters wide, and it is the only waterfall in Asia that directly flows into the ocean. Here you can enjoy two waterfalls rushing down steep cliffs and also take in the beautiful ocean view. The surrounding cliffs and ancient pine trees have made this place known since ancient times as Jeongbang Summer Waterfall, and it has been selected as one of the top ten scenic views of Yeongju (Jeju).

Jeongbang Waterfall (Photo / Jeju Tourism Organization)

Legend has it that during the Qin Shi Huang period, a man named Xu Fu traveled from afar in search of the herb of immortality but did not find it. On his way back, he became captivated by the beauty of Jeongbang Waterfall and carved the words “Xu Does Not Pass This” on the cliff face.
 
Address: 37, 214beon-gil, Chilseong-ro 70-ri, Seogwipo-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province (Donghong-dong)

Jeongbang Waterfall (Photo / Jeju Tourism Organization)

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall (Photo / Korea Tourism Organization)

The source of Cheonjeyeon Waterfall flows straight down from the mountainside above Jungmun-dong, standing 22 meters high. Originally forming a first-tier waterfall, it later split into a second and third waterfall. The first waterfall usually forms a pond, but becomes a waterfall during rainfall. The area around the waterfall forms a warm temperate forest zone, where you can enjoy the cool beauty of the falls while strolling and soaking in the natural atmosphere.

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall (Photo / Korea Tourism Organization)

Legend says that the seven fairies who serve the Jade Emperor come here every night to bathe and play. Before returning to heaven, they said they would name this pool the “Pool of Heaven,” hence the origin of the name Cheonjeyeon.

Address: 132, Cheonjeyeon-ro, Jungmun-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province