When cruising to Jeju Island in South Korea, shore excursions will show you why the island is one of the country’s national treasures. The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and gardens in all of East Asia and is designated as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

History buffs and nature lovers on a cruise to Asia will enjoy touring the Folklore and Natural History Museum, where exhibitions focus on traditions of Korean life as well as the geographical and geological history of the area’s native sea life. Spend time strolling the Yeomiji Botanical Gardens and behold its rich flora and fauna. Discover the myth and truth behind Mysterious Road a.k.a Dokkaebi Road.

Of the many things to do in Jeju Island from a cruise, one of the most popular shore excursions will take you to East Island for a visit to the Jeju Haenyeo Museum. Here, you’ll discover the fascinating world of the female free divers, so-called because they can dive for long periods without using oxygen tanks. Walk through four exhibit halls to see how and why the culture of the haenyeo developed.

Other Jeju Island shore excursions that introduce you to South Korea folkways are tours of Seongeup Folk Village, with its traditional residences; Confucian shrines and grandfather statues; Seopjikoji, famous for Korean soft dramas; and Osulloc Green Tea Museum, where you can delve into the history of  tea in Korea and the art of tea preparation.

Enjoy the natural beauty of the land and sea on Jeju Island shore excursions to the largely untouched Gotjawal Forest located in the Halla Mountain. From an observation deck in Gotjawal Provincial Park, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the forest, the island, and distant mountains. Visit Sangumburi, one of the island most accessible craters, and be treated to incredible views of the island and the sea, as well as the beautiful pampas grass that grows tall, willowy, and plentiful in the crater area in the late fall and early winter.