Driving In Jeju Island | Jeju Car Rental + Self Drive Itinerary

Jeju, an expansive island in South Korea, is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore its vast beauty. With its size, one could easily shield its perception as a modest island. For tourists traversing its large expanse, renting a car or utilizing public transport are the primary options, with the former providing convenience and time efficiency. Gather everything you should know about the island’s auto culture, from renting a car to creating a self-drive itinerary, through this Jeju car rental blog.

For the purpose of this guide, it is assumed that the reader will be entering the locale via Jeju International Airport, making it the most probable location for the initiation and termination of a rented car service.

Advantages of Renting a Car in Jeju

• Freedom of Movement: A rented car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your pace, unlike public transport, where timeliness can be restrictive.

• Convenience: Renting a car would save the hassle of waiting for public transport or taxis and make the journey from one place to another seamless.

• Comfort: Renting a car can ensure the comfort and privacy that public transport cannot provide.

Jeju Self-Drive Itinerary

Driving in Jeju can be a thrilling experience, given the island’s picturesque landscapes. However, a well-planned itinerary can help maximize the self-driving experience. A suggested self-drive itinerary includes exploring iconic destinations including Jeju City, Jeju Folk Village Museum, the serene Hyeopjae Beach, the captivating Jeolmul Natural Forest Resort, and the famous Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.

Please note, this guide does not take into account possible changes to the car rental services at Jeju International Airport or restrictions associated with foreign drivers. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the updated procedures and regulations regarding driving in Jeju Island. For more information about driving in Jeju Island and to get a taste of the magnificent landscapes that await, visit the Jeju car rental blog.

Driving in Jeju: Things to Keep in Mind

When planning to drive in Jeju, it’s important to know certain requirements and adhere to the island’s traffic regulations. Prepare yourself by understanding these rules before your trip.

Maximize your experience in Jeju! To ensure a smooth airport pick-up and drop-off, consider booking your car in advance! Explore the best rental companies here.

1. Car Rental Requirements

Individuals looking to rent a car in Jeju need to be aged 21 or older, with a minimum of one year driving experience. Remember, your driver’s license must be valid for the entire rental period. For type D vehicles, the driver should be 26 or older, with at least three years of driving experience.

Ensure that you acquaint yourself with Korean traffic laws and road signs before renting a vehicle.

Valid Driving License

Whether you plan to drive in Jeju or anywhere else in Korea, having a legitimate Korean or International Driving Permit (IDP) is a prerequisite. While you cannot legally drive in Korea using a foreign driver’s license, rental companies might still request it along with your IDP. Note, your IDP should have been issued in the same country as your local driver’s license.

Unfortunately, IDPs issued in China, excluding Hong Kong and Macau, are not accepted in South Korea as China is not part of the Geneva Convention and Vienna Convention.

More on IDP and other specifics around car rental in Jeju, as well as the rest of Korea can be found on the official Visit Korea website.

If your stay in South Korea has exceeded a year, you will need a Korean driver’s license to rent a car instead of using your IDP. You have the option to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Korean one. More details can be found here.

Motorized vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs or scooters also need an IDP when being rented.

Passport Mandate

Remember to bring your passport when renting a car; it’s required to finalize the reservation. The rental company will make a copy of your passport. The IDP and passport names should ideally be a match.

Mandatory Credit Card Payment

Car rentals can be paid for exclusively with a credit card bearing the name of the main driver. Cash and debit cards are not acceptable forms of payment.

AJ Car Rental, a subsidiary of the SK Rent-A-Car rental company, comes highly recommended for car rentals in Jeju Island. They are not only reputable, but affordable and cater specifically to foreign visitors. Ensure you reserve your car well in advance due to high demand, drawing in lots of Korean visitors and more often, fully booked car rentals.

2. Car Insurance Protocols

Car rentals in Jeju and Korea typically include a basic insurance which covers minor damages and defects. However, this does not extend to serious damages or theft. To cover such occurrences, additional insurance will be needed, which can be purchased separately from the rental company.

Example: While damages may be covered under the basic insurance plan, loss of income for the rental company is not covered. Renters bear the liability of this, often termed as per-day loss-of-use charges, equivalent to 50% of the daily rental cost. So, if a car valued at 50,000 won is under repair for 2 days (2 x 50 000 krw), then the renter has to cover 50% of 100,000 krw.

3. Inclusion of Additional Drivers

For each car rental, every potential driver must be registered with the rental company, primarily for insurance purposes. Most rental companies allow only one additional driver and this service is typically free of charge.

4. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Processes

Several car rental shops are available at Jeju International airport. On arrival, navigate through gate 5 to reach section 5 in the parking lot. You will find a shuttle waiting to take passengers to the Rent-a-Car building. The ride is approximately 5 minutes long and shuttles are available every 5 minutes.

You’ll find all car rental companies within the same Rent-a-Car building, offering comparable services and rates for car rentals in Jeju Island.

5. English GPS Rental

Renting via an online platform or website allows you to request additional items like an English GPS or child seats. Check if the GPS is included upon collecting the car; if it’s in Korean you can alter the language settings to English. You can seek assistance from a rental company representative if you are not comfortable configuring the Korean interface.

6. Rent a WiFi Egg Recommendation

Renting a WiFi egg can greatly enhance your driving experience in Jeju, making it easier to locate desired tourist attractions and sites. They can be picked up at the airport and are offered at an incredibly low cost, starting at 3300 krw a day. Find out more here.

7. Left-Hand Driving Practices

In Jeju and the rest of Korea, the steering wheel is located on the left side of the car and cars travel on the right side of the road. Those from countries with different driving standards need to pay extra attention when on the roads in Jeju.

8. Jeju’s Road Conditions

Navigating through Jeju island is quite simple. There are no complex routes, congestion isn’t severe, and most of the roads are leveled. Keep an eye out for the several roundabouts on the island and stay alert for wildlife, motorcycles, and scooters that might suddenly come into view, particularly in smaller villages.

9. Important Driving Regulations in Jeju

When in Jeju, exercise caution as the maximum speed limit averages between 50km/h in city centres and 80 km/h outside urban areas. However, speed limits may vary from one road to another. Numerous street cameras have been installed along major roads and any speeding ticket fines received will be charged to the card used during car booking.

Note that traffic rules in Jeju can differ from those in other countries. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with Jeju’s specific laws and regulations before setting out on the road. Further details can be found via the official Korean road website.

Comprehensive Guide to Jeju Car Rental

If you’re planning a trip to Jeju and considering car rental options, multiple companies are readily available. Many of these companies offer similar services and the prices are relatively alike. Therefore, your past experience with a rental company may likely be the deciding factor. If you’re looking for car rental services at Jeju Island Airport, it’s wise to consider options from the leading providers.

1. Top Jeju Car Rental Companies and Reviews

Major companies offering car rental services in Jeju include Sixt, AJ, Avis, Lotte Rent A Car, OK Rent A Car, and KT Kumho Car Rental. The average daily rental cost is quite comparable across these companies, with the starting price typically around 50,000 KRW per day for a basic, economical car.

Chart for comparison:

| | Starting Price | More Information |
| — | — | — |
| Rentalcars.com | 70,000 KRW | Details |
| Klook | 50,000 KRW | Details |
| Trazy | 50,000 KRW | Details |

Also worth considering is ‘AJ rent a car Jeju’, a reputable local car rental company that comes highly recommended on various travel platforms.

Key Car Rental Features:

• Car Type: Economy, Premium, Luxury, Standard, SUV, Van (Given the high quality of roads in Jeju, an economy car typically suffices)
• Fuel Type: Mostly diesel or gasoline. Some places offer LPG, electric (EV), or hybrid options.
• Jeju Rental Car Prices: Recently, car rental prices have risen in Jeju. For a small car, expect a starting price of 40,000 – 50,000 KRW.

2. Jeju Car Rental With Driver

In addition to renting a car, you also have the option to hire a driver. Although this service is pricier than solely renting a car, it can be an affordable option if you’re travelling in a small or large group. Here are some suggested options for hiring a professional driver in Jeju Island:

• 9 Hours Jeju Private Mini Bus + Driver
• 8 Hour Private Driver + Taxi
• 8 Hours Private Driver + Van

These options have been widely reviewed as some of the best for a Jeju driver hire.

3. Factors to Consider When Renting A Car

When collecting your rental car at Jeju international airport, ensure you thoroughly inspect the car for any existing scratches or dents. Any potential damage should be documented through photographs or videos. This cautionary step ensures that if any issues arise upon returning the car, you can provide proof that the damage was pre-existing.

It’s also critical to check the fuel level of the car upon collection. In most cases, the car should have a full tank. If not, return to the rental desk to address this issue. The car should also be returned with a full tank to avoid incurring additional charges for gas usage.

3 Day Jeju Self-Drive Itinerary Guide

Embarking on a self-drive tour across Jeju Island grants participants a uniquely immersive experience. Throughout the three-day journey, you can explore the island’s distinctive landscapes, historical sites, and local activities at your own pace. For a more comprehensive guide detailing what to do over the three days, check out this resourceful detailed 3-day itinerary.

Here’s a brief breakdown of the proposed three-day tour, giving first-time visitors to Jeju Island an enriching journey:

Jeju Self Drive Itinerary: Day 1
On the first day, you will visit:

• Jeju-Si City: Start with an introduction to the local culture and history.
• Hamdeok Beach: Appreciate the crystal clear waters and white sands at one of Jeju’s most beautiful beaches.
• Manjanggul Lava Tunnel Cave: Explore this natural marvel which is among the longest lava tunnels in the world.
• Haenyeo Female Divers Museum: Understand the unique culture of the female divers, their history, and significance.
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): Experience the breathtaking sunrise view along with horse riding.
• Seopjikoji: Enjoy a scenic coastal walk or watch a beautiful sunset from the hilltop.
• Hanwha Aquarium Jeju: Delve into the aquatic world and varieties of marine life.

Jeju Self Drive Itinerary: Day 2
The second-day journey encompasses:

• Mysterious Road: Experience the gravity-defying optical illusion.
• Hyeopjae Beach: Relax by the sea, enjoying the beach’s unique blend of cool blue sea and black volcanic rocks.
• Cactus Village: Wander through a rare cactus colony displaying a diverse range of cacti species.
• Seogwang Tea Garden & O’Sulloc Tea Museum: Discover Korea’s tea culture through strolling amidst a mesmerizing green tea plantation and visiting the adjacent tea museum.
• Chocolate Museum: Savor sweet delights and understand the art of chocolate making at this museum dedicated solely to chocolate.

Jeju Self Drive Itinerary: Day 3
On the final day, the expeditions include:

• Mt Hallasan: Hike up South Korea’s highest mountain for an unforgettable panoramic view of the island.
• Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls: Marvel at the unique, three-tiered waterfall called the “Pond of God”.
• Jusangjeolli Cliffs: Witness this stunning natural monument of columnar basalt formations by the sea.
• Yakcheonsa Buddhist Temple: Experience tranquility at this magnificently constructed temple, which is one of Asia’s largest.
• Jeongbang falls: Visit the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean.
• Teddy Bear Museum: Delight in a unique collection depicting the past and future of teddy bears.

The journey around the island primarily utilizes the central ring road. This road notably boasts striking, picturesque scenes that are indicative of the island’s charming canvas. The map provided below illustrates the main road network and can serve as an efficient guide to your self-drive trip in Jeju.

Best Locations for Accommodation in Jeju

When planning for a trip of two to three days to Jeju, the most optimal place to base your stay is Jeju city. The city’s strategic location makes it an attractive choice, especially for first-time visitors. It has several key advantages, including being well-connected to the rest of the island, hosting an assortment of accommodations to suit various budgets, and being in close proximity to the Jeju International Airport. Moreover, it is abundant in attractions, shops, and eateries, guaranteeing an enjoyable time for tourists.

Why Choose Jeju City?

• Accessibility and Transportation: Jeju City is the principal gateway to the rest of the island, making it readily accessible. The city’s robust transportation network includes taxis, buses, and rental cars, the latter being highly popular among tourists who prefer to explore at their own pace.

• Proximity to Jeju International Airport: Jeju City is conveniently located near the Jeju International Airport, which is a significant advantage for travelers. This proximity helps cut down transport time upon arrival and departure, thus allowing more time to explore and enjoy the island.

• Bounty of Attractions: This city is known for its plethora of tourist attractions. You’ll find a mix of natural and cultural landmarks like Jeju Folklore & Natural Museum, Halla Arboretum, and Dongmun Market.

• Accommodation Options: With a wide array of accommodation options available in Jeju City, visitors can pick and choose based on their budget and preference. Options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, providing something for every type of traveler.

• Food and Shopping: Jeju City is also known for its lively food and shopping scene. Tourists can enjoy local cuisine at various restaurants and buy souvenirs from local shops or larger shopping centers.

For a more detailed guidance and options on accommodation in Jeju, refer to this comprehensive guide.

In conclusion, Jeju City provides all the ingredients for a memorable stay – be it the range of accommodations, convenience of transportation, or the plethora of attractions and activities to indulge in. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Jeju City serves as the perfect gateway to the enchanting island of Jeju.

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Do you plan on hiring a car in Jeju Island? Do you have any concerns or inquiries about the driving rules or regulations in Jeju Island? If you have any suggestions or recommendations to make regarding this self-driving itinerary in South Korea, do share your thoughts in the comment section of this Jeju self-driving travel blog.