VISIT JEJU

Sometimes, you find a place that you want to keep secret from other people. A place where you can relax and be by yourself whenever you want to be there, without people. But because of social media, these places often become famous. Thunberg’s Bay-tree Street in Seonheul-ri, Jocheon-eup, is one such place. It is a place that I want to keep secret for myself, but unfortunately it has become somewhat famous recently. My consolation is that it is not as crowded as other places on the island.

This place doesn’t really show up in any map application, so you’ll have to type in the address. There is no parking lot there, so you’ll have to park on the side of the road.

What is this Thunberg’s bay-tree, you ask? This tree grows to about 20m in height, with brown bark and lenticels. Younger branches tend to be green. With old trees, you see lenticel falling off like scales. The leaves are uneven, forming a sort of a spiral at the end of the branch. The shape is somewhat elongated, and the edges are smooth. Leaves are thick, with a green, hairless surface. Petioles are relatively thick, 2-3cm long. Flowers are bisexual, with yellowish-green flowers in panicles that emerge from the leaf axils in May and June.

As its name suggests, this is a road lined with Thunberg’s bay-trees. Despite the summer heat, the trees line the road quite well, so you can walk without being bothered by the heat. No matter what time of year it is, there is a unique atmosphere to here. Especially if you come here on a foggy day, it has a really unique atmosphere. The view of the road shrouded in fog makes for a great backdrop. In fact, this is the reason why this place has become famous as a wedding photo spot. At around 17:00 to 18:00, just before sunset, the low-hanging sun creates an even better view.

You can’t help but exclaim at the mysterious wonder of this place. This place has a very unique atmosphere, something that only Thunberg’s bay-trees can create. The trees blend together to form a single tunnel. It’s not artificial at all, but a special gift that nature created for people.

Perhaps it is the scent of Thunberg’s bay-tree. This place has a very unique scent, something that you will never find in other forests. You will stop walking without noticing it. Then, take a deep breath. Many have said that they have seen roe deer here as well.

Thunberg’s bay-trees aren’t the only thing that Seonheul-ri has to offer. If you have time, head to the village to enjoy its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, so sstop by when you’re hungry.  The entire village of Seonheul-ri has been designated as a Wetland City under the Ramsar Convention, so you can visit beautiful natural sites such as the Dongbaek-Dongsan. It’s another glimpse of Jeju’s nature that you haven’t yet felt at Thunberg’s Bay-tree Road. Once you’ve seen it, you may find it hard to turn back from this charming village.