Manjanggul Cave

Manjanggul Cave is one of Jeju Island’s most fascinating natural wonders and a must-see destination for geology lovers and curious travelers alike. It is a massive lava tube formed by volcanic activity over 100,000 years ago and is part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site known as the "Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes." Known for its incredible length, unique rock formations, and cool underground climate, Manjanggul offers an awe-inspiring look into the island’s volcanic past.

How to Reach Manjanggul Cave, Jeju

Manjanggul Cave is located in the northeastern part of Jeju Island, in the Gujwa-eup area.

• By Car: From Jeju City, it takes about 30–40 minutes by car. From Seogwipo, it takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• By Bus: Take a bus bound for Gimnyeong or Manjanggul Cave from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal. You may need to transfer once depending on your starting point. The nearest bus stop is about 15 minutes’ walk from the cave entrance.
• By Tour: Many local tours that cover Jeju’s natural attractions include Manjanggul Cave in their itinerary, especially combined with other east coast sites like Seongsan Ilchulbong and Bijarim Forest.

Weather

One of the unique aspects of Manjanggul Cave is its consistent internal climate. While the weather outside varies with the seasons, the cave itself maintains a cool and stable temperature year-round.

• Inside the Cave: The temperature is around 11–21°C (52–70°F), regardless of the season, which provides a comfortable break from summer heat or winter chill.
• Outside the Cave: Jeju’s coastal climate means mild winters and humid summers. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for visiting the island overall.

Timing

Manjanggul Cave is open year-round except for the first Wednesday of every month when it is closed for maintenance.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:10 PM).

During peak tourist seasons (spring and summer), it's best to arrive early in the day to avoid large crowds.

Why Famous for Manjanggul Cave, Jeju?

Manjanggul Cave is famous for being one of the finest lava tube systems in the world. Lava tubes are rare natural formations created when the surface of a lava flow hardens, while molten lava continues to flow beneath it, eventually draining out and leaving a long, hollow tunnel.

What makes Manjanggul unique is not just its length — the entire system is over 13 kilometers long — but also the dramatic lava features inside, such as lava stalactites, lava benches, and the world’s largest known lava column, which stands 7.6 meters high.

Only a 1-kilometer section of the cave is open to the public, but that section is packed with geological wonders and interpretive signs that explain its formation.

Entry and Visit Details

Visitors can explore the accessible section of Manjanggul Cave on foot. The pathway is clearly marked, slightly uneven in places, but manageable for most visitors. However, due to the damp and slippery conditions, sturdy shoes are highly recommended.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: 2,000 KRW
• Teenagers and Children: 1,000 KRW

Facilities near the entrance include restrooms, a small museum or information center, a souvenir shop, and parking space. Food options are limited on-site, so it’s best to eat before or after your visit.

History and Architecture

Manjanggul Cave formed over 100,000 years ago due to volcanic eruptions that shaped Jeju Island. The lava flowing from Geomunoreum Volcano created several lava tubes, of which Manjanggul is the most well-preserved and accessible.

Unlike human architecture, the "design" of the cave reflects nature’s own artistic hand. The tube's cross-sections vary from wide-open caverns to narrow corridors. You’ll see features like:

• Lava Stalactites: Lava dripping from the ceiling that hardened over time.
• Lava Benches: Horizontal ridges formed by fluctuating lava levels.
• Lava Column: The cave’s highlight — a giant lava formation where lava once poured from the ceiling to the floor, now frozen in time.

Things to Do

• Explore the Lava Tube: Walk through the one-kilometer section open to the public and marvel at volcanic features.
• Learn at the Visitor Center: Check out geological exhibits and displays about the formation of Jeju Island.
• Photography: The cave is dimly lit but atmospheric. Bring a camera with good low-light capability.
• Combine with Nearby Attractions: Pair your visit with trips to Gimnyeong Maze Park, Bijarim Forest, or Woljeongri Beach.

Facts and Tips about Manjanggul Cave, Jeju

• Manjanggul Cave is part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
• The total lava tube length is 13.4 km, but only 1 km is accessible to the public.
• The cave was discovered in 1946 and opened to the public after preservation work in the 1970s.
• Inside the cave, it is dim and slippery — wear sturdy shoes and bring a light jacket.
• No pets, food, or drinks are allowed inside the cave.
• Flashlights are not required as the trail is lit, but a small torch may help with photography.
• Watch your step — the cave floor is uneven in many spots.

Conclusion

Manjanggul Cave is a truly unique experience on Jeju Island. It’s not just a tourist destination but a portal into the geological past of the island — a world carved by molten lava, preserved through time, and accessible to all. Whether you're a science enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply someone in awe of nature, walking through Manjanggul Cave offers a rare glimpse into the hidden beauty beneath the earth. A visit here will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Jeju's volcanic origins and the silent power of nature.