Jeju

Songaksan Mountain

Songaksan is a coastal volcanic peak on Jeju's southwest tip, with one of the island's most dramatic walking trails ringing its rim. The 2.8-kilometer loop hugs the coast on a wooden boardwalk, then climbs gently for sweeping views back toward Hallasan and out to the offshore islands of Gapado and Marado. World War II Japanese-built coastal bunkers carved into the cliffs are visible along the way and add a sobering historical layer. The hike takes about ninety minutes at a relaxed pace, and ferries to Marado leave from the harbor at the trail's start. Best at golden hour late in the afternoon. Pair with the Marado ferry for a half-day western Jeju.