Jusangjeollidae is an interesting lava rock formation along the coast. I had finished my view and headed back to the car when I saw one of the famous Jeju women divers headed down toward the water. I followed her and five others, watching as they prepared for the dive. In the time I was watching I didn't see any of the amazing 2-minute stays underwater but did see some very strong swimming and strong dives.
We then drove to Yakcheonsa Temple which means "Temple where medicinal water flows." The guide book states that it houses the largest Buddhist statue in Asia which didn't ring quite true as I remember a HUGE reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. But the Temple and the statue were impressive -- a lovely structure in a lovely setting.
The Buddha statue was quite marvellous, and I loved the huge drum!
On the grounds leading to the temple was this delightful phone booth.
We stopped for a view of the Seonim ((Seven Nymphs) Bridge with Mount Halla visible in the background.
Before crossing the pedestrian bridge the Jeongbang Waterfall was visible. Also on view was this delightful fountain which represents, by animals, the Five Blessings: longevity, wealth, honor, love, and sons.
We passed by Mt. Sanbang which is an impressive "tholoide formed by projected trachyte" -- whatever that means. One can see it rising to 395 meters from all sides, quite impressive.
Mr. Songak is less impressive but, located on the coast, has good views of several islands, although with the clouds/fog, my view wasn't so great. Songak is gently sloping and has a road so one can drive to the end! And more lovely horses. . . .
To make sure to get a lunch with no seafood, go to one with a big cow displayed in the window, noting the various cuts!
While I walked out on a pier to take a look at Suwolbong, the guide made a friend at this stand. We sat inside drinking coffee during which time the Korean postal service, on motorcycle, delivered mail to this and several other freestanding fish sale stands. I found it amazing that such an, apparently, temporary structure had a permanent mailing address.We ended the day at Hallim Park, created to be a tourist attraction. It is several distinct garden areas, has a folk village, and incorporates two lava caves. I was particularly interested in visiting the caves since that's the one Jeju geological formation I hadn't seen. These are interesting caves in that they are formed of lava but later seepage has resulted in limestone buildup so they have stalactites.
There was a wonderful display of Jeju rock juxtaposed with bonsai; I really liked the different combinations.
There were a number of trees planted to commemorate special occasions such as this Tree of Peace and Prosperity planted in 2000 by North and South Korean officials.
There was also a peace pole looking very similar to the one in front of my church in St. Paul.
Hallim also had a few birds, including several white peacocks. This one kept displaying his beautiful plumage as if to say "look at me!"
The host of the Siena Pension was very helpful. He was willing to drive me to Mt. Halla so I could do the easiest hike in Hallasan National Park and then pick me up to take me to the airport. I really did want to climb Mt. Halla. Unfortunately it began raining Wednesday evening, poured all night, and was still raining on Thursday. Not hiking weather.So I took the bus to the airport and got an earlier flight back to Seoul. Will have to do Hallasan on a future trip, I guess.
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