Introduction

Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as "Sunrise Peak", is a prominent natural attraction located on the eastern end of Jeju Island, South Korea. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a volcanic tuff cone formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions approximately 5,000 years ago. It's renowned for its well-preserved crater and unique geological features, attracting visitors from all around the globe who come to experience its stunning natural beauty and witness the spectacular sunrise.

History of Tourism

The history of tourism at Seongsan Ilchulbong can be traced back to the early 20th century when Jeju Island began to gain recognition as a place of scenic beauty. However, it was not until the late 20th century that travel to Jeju and Seongsan Ilchulbong became more accessible, with increased modes of transportation and development of local infrastructure. The declaration of Seongsan Ilchulbong as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 2007 marked a significant milestone in its tourism history, leading to a substantial increase in international recognition and visitor numbers.

Latest Tourism Trends

With the rise of eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices, Seongsan Ilchulbong has seen a shift in visitor trends focusing on conservation and education. The following are some of the latest trends in tourism for this iconic destination:

• Experiential and Educational Tours: More tourists are seeking informative guided tours that explain the geological significance and natural history of Seongsan Ilchulbong.
• Photography and Social Media: The visual spectacle provided by Seongsan Ilchulbong has made it a hotspot for photography enthusiasts and social media influencers.
• Health and Wellness: Visitors are increasingly incorporating activities such as hiking and sunrise yoga into their travel plans to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
• Off-season Travel: Tourists are choosing to visit during the off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and to promote sustainable tourism by reducing pressure on the site during peak times.

Visitor Information and Attractions

Seongsan Ilchulbong is open to visitors year-round, offering various activities and attractions such as:

• Hiking to the peak for panoramic views of Jeju Island and the East China Sea.
• Witnessing the magnificent sunrise, which is the most famous attraction of this natural wonder.
• Exploring local marine life and habitats at the nearby Seongsan Ilchulbong beach.
• Attending the Jeju Haenyeo (women divers) show, which showcases the cultural heritage of Jeju's traditional female divers.

To promote sustainable visitation, the management of Seongsan Ilchulbong has implemented measures such as limiting the number of visitors during sunrise and encouraging the use of public transportation to reach the site.