When most travelers think of Jeju Island, they picture volcanic peaks, waterfalls, and seaside cafés. But tucked away in the island’s lush east is a quieter wonder—a place where time slows down, birds sing, and sunlight filters through ancient trees:
Bijarim Forest (비자림).
Often overlooked in favor of more touristy spots, Bijarim Forest is a true hidden gem—perfect for anyone seeking peace, clean air, and nature therapy.
What is Bijarim Forest?
Bijarim is a natural forest of over 2,800 nutmeg trees (Torreya nucifera), many of which are 500 to 800 years old. It’s the largest and oldest nutmeg grove in the world, and also one of the most tranquil places on Jeju Island.
The forest stretches over 44 acres (over 140,000 square meters) and is designated as Natural Monument No. 374 in Korea.
Some of the trees are so large that it takes several adults to circle their trunks. The most famous tree, called the “Ancestor Nutmeg Tree”, is believed to be more than 800 years old and is revered for its spiritual energy.
Why you should visit Bijarim Forest
1. A perfect place for forest bathing (“shinrin-yoku”)
In Japan and Korea, forest bathing is a well-known form of stress relief—simply walking through nature, breathing deeply, and letting the forest heal you.
Bijarim’s soft paths, fresh scent of earth and leaves, and gentle sounds of wind and birds make it an ideal forest therapy spot.
Studies show that just 30 minutes of walking in Bijarim can lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and even improve focus.
2. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers
Unlike steep hikes like Hallasan or Seongsan Ilchulbong, Bijarim is flat and easy to walk, making it great for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re traveling with kids, elderly parents, or just yourself, this is a relaxing, low-effort yet high-reward experience.
- 🧒 Stroller-friendly
- 🐾 Pet-friendly (on leash)
- 🪑 Benches every few hundred meters
- 🌧️ Even beautiful on rainy days!
3. Nature + history + spirituality
Nutmeg trees have long been associated with longevity, protection, and good fortune in Korean folklore. Many locals believe Bijarim has a spiritual presence and visit it not just for beauty, but also to “reset” their minds and energy.
You’ll also spot rare plants and moss, including the endangered Jeju sowthistle, and hundreds of bird species.
It’s not just a forest—it’s a living sanctuary.
How to get to Bijarim Forest
📍 Location
1221 Bijasup-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
(Approximately 30 minutes from Seongsan Ilchulbong or Manjanggul Cave)
🚗 By car
- From Jeju Airport: About 50 minutes by rental car
- Free parking available
🚌 By bus
- Take an intercity bus to Gujwa-eup
- Transfer to local bus 711 or 710 → Get off at Bijarim Forest (비자림) stop
Opening hours & fees
- 🕒 Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
- 💵 Admission fee: ₩3,000 (approx. $2.20 USD) for adults
- 🎟️ Free for children under 7 and seniors over 65
What to expect on your visit
🌳 Walking trails
- Two main trails: 1.7 km and 2.7 km circular loops
- Trails are clearly marked and take 30–60 minutes
- No steep inclines; gravel and wooden paths
📸 Photo spots
- The Ancestor Nutmeg Tree (marked on the trail map)
- Stone benches surrounded by moss
- Forest tunnel where trees form a natural arch overhead
🍵 Facilities
- Visitor center with trail map and eco-info
- Café and small shop at entrance
- Clean restrooms and shaded rest areas
Best time to visit Bijarim Forest
🍂 Autumn (Oct–Nov): Fiery foliage contrasts beautifully with evergreen nutmeg
🌸 Spring (Apr–May): Bright green leaves, blooming wildflowers
☁️ Rainy days: Mist creates a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere
🏖️ Summer: Cool shade, even during Jeju’s hot season
Tip: Visit early morning for the most peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
Things to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (avoid heels or flip-flops)
- Insect repellent (especially in summer)
- A refillable water bottle
- Camera or smartphone
- A light rain jacket or umbrella (weather in Jeju changes quickly)
Combine Bijarim with other nearby attractions
Make the most of your East Jeju trip by pairing Bijarim with these spots:
- 🌋 Manjanggul Lava Tube – Explore Korea’s longest lava cave
- 🌅 Seongsan Ilchulbong – Hike to the sunrise peak
- 🐎 Jeju Horse Park – Fun for families
- 🫖 Tea Museum Osulloc – On the way back to the west side
Bijarim is Jeju’s gentle green treasure
While Jeju is full of dramatic sights—volcanoes, cliffs, and crashing waves—Bijarim Forest offers something quieter, deeper, and arguably more healing.
It’s a place to breathe slower, walk softer, and think more clearly.
Whether you’re an eco-traveler, a stressed-out city dweller, or someone simply looking for a unique and meaningful stop, Bijarim will stay with you long after your visit ends.