Jeju, a picturesque island in South Korea, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes and unique attractions. Fortunately, the island is well-served by an efficient bus network, providing a convenient alternative for those who do not wish to rent a vehicle or hire a private driver. Despite some challenges, especially on Sundays, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to navigate Jeju’s bus network effectively.
Types of Buses
- InterCity Buses: These buses travel long distances and connect the island’s major cities, such as Jeju City and Seogwipo. They are ideal for quick journeys between major destinations.
- City Buses: These buses serve urban and rural areas, connecting neighborhoods in Jeju City and Seogwipo with villages and tourist sites.
- Village Buses: These small buses serve villages and less accessible areas. They are less frequent, especially on Sundays.
Main Routes
- Route 100 (Circular): Connects Jeju Airport to various key points in Jeju City.
- Route 600: Links Jeju Airport to Seogwipo via major beach resorts and tourist sites.
- Route 202: Crosses the island from north to south, connecting Jeju City to Seogwipo via Hallasan (the iconic shield volcano located on Jeju Island).
- Route 281: Passes through major tourist sites like Hyeopjae Beach and the O’sulloc Museum.
Fare Information
Bus fares in Jeju vary depending on the type of bus and distance traveled:
- InterCity Buses: Between 3,000 and 5,000 KRW depending on the distance.
- City Buses: Fixed fare of 1,200 KRW for adults, 800 KRW for teenagers, and 400 KRW for children.
- Village Buses: Fixed fare of 1,200 KRW.
Payments can be made in cash or with a reloadable transport card like T-Money, which offers discounts.
Timetables and Frequencies
- InterCity and City buses generally operate from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Frequency varies, with buses running every 15 to 30 minutes on main routes and less frequently on Village Buses.
- On Sundays and public holidays, bus frequencies are reduced, and some Village Buses may not operate.
Practical Tips
- Plan your journeys: Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (I recommend the latter) to plan your bus routes and get real-time information.
- Avoid sundays: If possible, avoid relying on buses on Sundays, as many services are reduced or suspended.
- Get a T-Money card: This facilitates payments and offers discounts.
- Check timetables: Consult timetables online or at bus stops, especially for Village Buses.
- Prepare for really long journeys: Trips can be very long, so allow plenty of time and bring water and snacks.
Using buses in Jeju can be challenging due to the long distances. By planning carefully and using available resources, you can make your transportation experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Enjoy your time in Jeju and explore its wonders with ease using this comprehensive guide. Be patient and flexible, and you’ll discover that Jeju’s bus network is a valuable resource for exploring this beautiful island.
