Cheonjiyeon Falls(천지연폭포) in Seogwipo(서귀포), Jeju(제주): A Landscape Where Heaven and Earth Meet, Past a Mysterious Forest Trail

A Walk Towards Cheonjiyeon(천지연) Following the Breath of the Forest

On the morning of the second day of my Jeju(제주) trip, I visited Seohong-dong(서홍동) in Seogwipo(서귀포), where the air was exceptionally crisp. Located at 666-1 Seohong-dong, Seogwipo-si(서귀포시), Jeju Special Self-Governing Province(제주특별자치도), Cheonjiyeon Falls(천지연폭포) felt like passing through a gate to another world thanks to the lush subtropical forest that welcomed me from the entrance. The bitter yet fresh scent of trees grazing my nose as I walked the forest path, and the texture of the soil felt under my feet, helped me forget the fatigue of the city. Elaeocarpus sylvestris(담팔수나무), designated as a Natural Monument, anchored the weight of the forest, while the thick density of Castanopsis sieboldii(구실잣밤나무) and Camellia trees(동백나무) gave me a sense of comfort as if the forest were embracing me throughout the walk.

Cascading Waters, A Landscape Holding 400,000 Years of Time

As I reached the end of the trail, the roaring sound of water echoed in my heart. I finally realized the meaning of the name, which suggests that the energy of the heavens descended to the earth to become a waterfall. The towering, sheer cliffs preserve the rough traces of time when lava flowed hundreds of thousands of years ago. The 20m-deep pool beneath the waterfall looked like a scar of time and a work of art carved into the rocks by the falls over long ages. Whenever the sunlight hit the waterfall to paint a rainbow, I felt I understood why this place is called a world where immortals play. Listening to the slowly flowing water makes me feel like I am regaining my own pace, which I had lost in my busy daily life.

Opening Your Eyes Wide to Find Mysterious Life

The charm of this place does not stop at the scenery. If you are lucky, you might encounter the Giant mottled eel(무태장어), a Natural Monument. The fact that the Giant mottled eel, a large tropical fish, has flowed all the way into this deep valley in the south of Jeju(제주) is mysterious the more you think about it. The unique fun that only Cheonjiyeon(천지연) offers is looking closely into the crystal-clear flowing water, hoping to catch a glimpse of one. Rare plants such as Rubus ikenoensis(가시딸기) and Psilotum nudum(송엽란) are nestled between the trees, so you cannot overlook even the smallest wildflowers under your feet.

Small Tips for Travelers

I recommend visiting Cheonjiyeon Falls(천지연폭포) around sunset or early in the morning. A walk while feeling the cool energy of the morning gives you vitality that nothing else can replace. Nearby, there is Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market(매일올레시장) and Lee Jung-seop Art Street(이중섭거리), which are close to downtown Seogwipo(서귀포), so it is perfect for enjoying Jeju(제주)'s flavors along with a light stroll after sightseeing at the waterfall. You don't need any excessive preparation, but wearing comfortable shoes for walking the forest path is a must. Don't forget to bring a light outer layer, as the mist sprayed by the waterfall might dampen your clothes slightly. I truly hope you get to experience this quiet consolation offered by nature.