Camellia Hill

Camellia Hill is one of Jeju Island’s most beautiful and unique tourist destinations, famous for its stunning botanical garden filled with a variety of camellia flowers. Located in the western part of Jeju, near the picturesque town of Andeok, the garden offers an idyllic escape into nature. It is one of the few places on the island where visitors can admire the beauty of camellia flowers, particularly during the blooming season in winter and early spring. The site also features a wide array of other plants, scenic walking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it a perfect place for relaxation and photography.

How to Reach Camellia Hill, Jeju

Camellia Hill is located in the western region of Jeju Island, and it is easily accessible from both Jeju City and Seogwipo. The location is ideal for those looking to explore the more natural side of Jeju, as it offers scenic views and tranquility. Here’s how you can reach it:

• By Car: The most convenient way to reach Camellia Hill is by car. From Jeju City, it will take around 50 minutes to 1 hour to drive to the garden. From Seogwipo, the drive will take approximately 40 minutes. There is ample parking available at the entrance of the garden.
• By Bus: Public buses from Jeju City to the western part of the island (such as the 700 and 741 buses) will bring you close to the area. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to Camellia Hill.
• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available on Jeju Island. The ride from Jeju City will cost approximately 30,000 to 40,000 KRW depending on traffic.

Weather

Jeju Island enjoys a mild temperate climate, which makes it an attractive destination year-round. The weather at Camellia Hill is typically mild and comfortable, which is ideal for exploring the beautiful gardens and walking trails.

• Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Camellia Hill as the camellia flowers are in full bloom. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it perfect for a leisurely stroll through the gardens.
• Summer (June – August): Summer in Jeju can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The garden remains open, but it can get crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the heat.
• Autumn (September – November): Autumn offers mild temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The fall foliage adds beautiful colors to the landscape, making this an ideal time for photography.
• Winter (December – February): Winter temperatures can range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). While it’s cooler, Camellia Hill offers a peaceful atmosphere with fewer visitors, and the camellia flowers start blooming during this time, offering a unique winter charm.

Timing

Camellia Hill is open to visitors year-round, with different seasonal experiences depending on the time of year. The garden is open every day, including holidays, and the opening hours are:

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:30 PM)

It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Spring and winter are the most popular times to visit because of the camellia blooms.

Why Famous for Camellia Hill, Jeju?

Camellia Hill is renowned for its large and diverse collection of camellia flowers, which bloom primarily in winter and early spring. The garden is home to over 6,000 camellia trees, making it the largest camellia garden on Jeju Island. It features a wide variety of camellia species, including both local and imported types, showcasing different colors, shapes, and sizes. The camellias, along with other seasonal flowers, create a vibrant and picturesque atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The garden also offers well-maintained walking paths that wind through the landscape, providing scenic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. Camellia Hill is famous not only for its botanical beauty but also for its educational value, as it helps raise awareness about the preservation of camellias and other endangered plant species.

Entry and Visit Details about Camellia Hill, Jeju

Visiting Camellia Hill is an affordable and enjoyable experience for tourists. The entry fee allows access to the entire garden and includes various facilities, such as rest areas, information points, and a café. The staff is friendly and informative, offering insights about the plants and the history of the garden.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: 10,000 KRW
• Children (ages 7-12): 5,000 KRW
• Children under 7: Free

The garden is wheelchair accessible, and there are restrooms and drinking water available throughout the area. There is also a gift shop where visitors can buy local souvenirs, including camellia-themed products and traditional Jeju crafts.

History and Architecture

Camellia Hill was established in 1996 by a local Jeju resident, Mr. Song, who was passionate about preserving and showcasing the island’s rich floral diversity. The garden’s creation was driven by the goal of conserving camellia species and promoting awareness of their beauty and cultural significance.

The garden’s architecture is simple and harmonious, designed to blend in with the natural environment. The walking paths are carefully planned to allow visitors to enjoy views of the flowers, the surrounding mountains, and the coastline. There are also traditional Korean-style pavilions scattered throughout the garden, providing rest spots for visitors to enjoy the scenery. The architecture of the garden is focused on creating a tranquil and meditative environment.

Things to Do

• Explore the Camellia Gardens: Walk through the extensive camellia collection and admire the different species in bloom, especially during the winter and spring months.
• Photography: The vibrant colors of the camellia flowers and the scenic landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise.
• Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the history of the camellia plants and the garden’s preservation efforts.
• Enjoy the Walking Trails: The garden features peaceful walking trails, ideal for nature walks and relaxation.
• Visit the Café: The on-site café offers a relaxing place to enjoy a drink and take in the natural beauty of the garden.

Facts and Tips about Camellia Hill, Jeju

• Camellia Hill is home to over 6,000 camellia trees, making it one of the largest camellia gardens in Korea.
• The best time to visit is between December and April, when the camellias are in full bloom.
• The garden also features other beautiful flowers like azaleas, chrysanthemums, and plum blossoms.
• It’s a great place for photography, especially during the early morning light or the golden hour in the evening.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there are many walking trails to explore the full extent of the garden.
• For those traveling with family, the garden is family-friendly and offers areas for children to enjoy.

Conclusion

Camellia Hill is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those interested in Jeju’s rich botanical diversity. With its expansive collection of camellia flowers, beautiful walking paths, and serene atmosphere, it offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. Whether you're visiting for the camellias in bloom, to take a leisurely stroll, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of Jeju Island, Camellia Hill provides a memorable and enriching experience for all visitors.