Tourists look at the Cheonjeyeon Falls, located in the Jungmun Tourist Resort, Seogwipo, Jeju Island. / Korea Times Photos by Shim Hyun-chul




By Shim Hyun-chul
Staff Reporter

JEJU ― White bubbles float about in the forest. Perhaps they were too shy to show themselves, the bubbles seem to create their own melody, hiding themselves within the dense forest and wet fog. Just as you seem to be captivated by the gentle melody, you find a grand waterfall, cascading through the tall and thick trees. Sending out crystal clear air and sounds, the waterfalls seem to reach into your heart and wash away the toxins hidden deep inside.

The oval shaped Jeju Island, with Mt. Halla (1,950 meters) in the center, is the biggest island located south of the Korean Peninsula. The Chonjiyeon, Chonjeyeon and Jeongbang Falls are the island's three famous falls.

Jeongbang Falls is the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly to the sea. The 23 meters high waterfall creates a small lake that flows into the sea. It is located on the southern border of Mt. Halla, with vertical cliffs at both sides of the waterfall and a beautiful scene of old pine trees. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of the deep blue sea and also find a rainbow when the sunlight reflects from the waterfall.

Cheonjiyeon Falls, 22 meters high and 12 meters wide, is like an artificial waterfall. Clean cut and simple, Cheonjiyeon literally means ``the lake where the sky and ground meet.'' The streams around the waterfall are known to be among the most beautiful in Jeju. The entire stream is designated as Korea's Natural Monument No.379, and is surrounded by Dampalsu trees, designated Korea's Natural Monument No.163. In the deep waters below, you can also find Mutae Eels, Korea's Natural Monument No. 258.

Cheonjeyeon Falls is located at the Jungmun Tourist Resort and comprises three steps. The first waterfall falls from a 22 meters high cliff and creates the 21 meters deep Cheonjeyeon. This deep pond then creates another two waterfalls. At the top of the cliff, there is the Seonimgyo, a bridge that connects the east and west side of the lake, where you can find seven statues of nymphs playing instruments. There is also a hanok (Korean traditional house) called Cheonjeru on the cliff.

Jeju volcanic island and lava tubes were designated as the nation's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2007.

For more information about Jeju, visit http://english.tour2jeju.net or call (064) 710-3313.

shim@koreatimes.co.kr