Visiting Bijarim Forest on Jeju Island

Bijaram Forest walking path with low hanging trees and well marked paths

Bijarim Forest is one of Jeju Island’s most peaceful and accessible natural attractions. Home to thousands of nutmeg trees, many over 500 years old, the forest features flat and easy to follow walking paths, plenty of shade, and a relaxed pace compared to many of Jeju’s other major attractions. For families looking for a fun day in nature, Bijarim Forest is a great choice!

Located in Gujwa-eup in east Jeju, visiting Bijarim Forest also gives you easy access to stunning nearby beaches, making it a great stop on an east Jeju itinerary.


Where Is Bijarim Forest in Jeju?

Bijarim Forest is located inland in Gujwa-eup, about:

  • 50 minutes from Jeju City
  • 20 minutes from Woljeongri Beach

Its central east-Jeju location makes it easy to combine with coastal stops without backtracking.


Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

Opening hours for Bijaram Forest are from 9am to 6pm daily, but in winter it can get dark early so last admission is usually 5pm.

Entry fees are:

  • Adults 3,000 won
  • Kids and teens 1,500 won

Tickets are purchased at the entrance, and even on busy days, entry is well managed. There is also free parking available onsite.


What Makes Bijarim Forest Special?

Bijarim Forest is one of the largest nutmeg tree forests in the world. The trees are tall and widely spaced, creating a cathedral-like feel without dense undergrowth.

The Walking Paths

The main walking loop is:

  • Flat and well maintained
  • Suitable for strollers
  • Clearly signposted

Most visitors can easily walk the loop in around 60–90 minutes, depending on pace and how often you stop for breaks.

The Atmosphere

Unlike Jeju’s volcanic or coastal attractions, Bijarim Forest feels:

  • Quiet and shaded
  • Naturally cool, even in summer
  • Calm rather than visually overwhelming

It’s one of our top picks for families with younger kids or older visitors.


Is Bijarim Forest Good for Kids?

Yes, Bijaram Forest is great for kids, especially if they love to spend time in nature. It’s a favourite of ours because it offers kids:

  • Plenty of space to walk and explore safely (flat terrain)
  • Low-stress outdoor time – go at your own pace and stop as often as you like
  • An easy to walk loop – so you know you’re going to end up back where you started

How to Get There

By Car

Driving, like most places on Jeju Island, is the easiest way to visit Bijarim Forest. There is ample parking near the entrance, and roads are well signposted. Just pop the details into Kakao or NAVER to get you there without any issues.

From Jeju City, allow 45–55 minutes.

By Bus

Buses run to the Gujwa area, but you should expect:

  • A longer journey
  • Some walking from the nearest stop

If you’re travelling with kids, a car offers far more convenience.

By Taxi

Taxis are a good option if you’re visiting from nearby beaches or attractions. Remember to download the Kakao taxi app (available on iOS and Android) for easy ordering – you can choose to pay by cash directly to your driver.


What to Bring When Visiting Bijarim Forest

To enjoy the visit comfortably, bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light layers (the forest stays cool)
  • Water bottles
  • Bug spray in summer

There is nowhere to buy food inside the forest, so it’s best to eat before or after your visit.


Best Time to Visit Bijarim Forest

The forest is open year-round, but the best times to visit are:

  • Spring and autumn in Jeju offer comfortable temperatures
  • Mid-morning or early afternoon, for natural light and less tourists
  • Summer, when shade makes walking comfortable

Rain is usually light under the canopy, but paths can be damp.


Rules and Etiquette Inside the Forest

Bijarim Forest is protected, so make sure you:

  • Walk only on marked paths
  • Avoid touching or damaging trees in any way
  • Keep noise levels low

Nearby Places to Visit

If you’re planning a trip to the forest, there’s a few top spots nearby that are worth a look depending on what type of adventure you’re after:

  • Snoopy Garden (10 minutes away)
  • Woljeongri Beach cafés
  • Sehwa Beach and market area

Many families visit the forest first, followed by lunch by the sea at one of the many beach cafes available.


Local Tips for Visiting

  • Visit earlier in the day for the quietest experience
  • Bring a light jumper, even in warmer months
  • Combine with one nearby attraction rather than rushing
  • Great option when you need a calm reset day

We have visited multiple throughout the year — it’s the kind of place that changes with the seasons, so it offers something new and unique for each visit.


Bijarim Forest Jeju – Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to walk through Bijarim Forest?
Most visitors spend 1–1.5 hours walking the main loop.

Is the forest stroller-friendly?
Yes, the forest is stroller-friendly. The paths are flat and suitable for strollers.

Is Bijarim Forest worth visiting in summer?
Yes, it’s definitely a great spot to visit in summer The shade makes it one of the cooler outdoor attractions in Jeju.

Can you eat inside Bijarim Forest?
No, you can’t eat inside Bijaram Forest. Food isn’t available anywhere inside the forest and eating on the paths is discouraged.

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