Jeju Island has lengthy been a spot of attract, some calling it the «Hawaii of Korea,» whereas others have been enchanted by its set-jetting charms by means of the lengthy record of Okay-pop dramas set there.

Recognized for its dramatic volcanic landscapes (from Hallasan Nationwide Park to Cheonjeyeon Falls), distinctive culinary scene (Jeju Black pork, anybody?), and quirky tradition (like a teddy bear museum!), the South Korean island is a uncommon vacation spot that is a triple risk of UNESCO websites, inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2007, in addition to a Biosphere Reserve in 2002 and Global Geopark in 2015.

To showcase all of its pure belongings, the Jeju World Pure Heritage Village Preservation Affiliation is bringing again its World Heritage Festival from July 4 to July 22. Whereas the aim of the sixth version of this occasion is to “promote the common worth and significance of Jeju Island’s UNESCO-listed pure heritage websites,” for locals and vacationers alike, it’s additionally an opportunity to see the websites like by no means earlier than, according to Korea JoongAng Daily.

All through the 19-day occasion, the UNESCO-honored Hallasan Pure Reserve, Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, and Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone will all be thrust into the highlight, whereas the opening ceremony and performances all through the celebration will spotlight the world’s cultural traditions.

Maybe probably the most distinctive facet of the pageant are particular expeditions that invite guests inside sections of the websites which can be normally off limits. This 12 months’s programming consists of excursions of the geological wonders of the Gimnyeonggul and Bengdwigul lava tubes, each part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, which UNESCO said is «considered the best lava tube system of caves anyplace, with its multicolored carbonate roofs and flooring and dark-colored lava partitions.”

One other pageant spotlight is the walking tour following the lava path, divided into three sections, beginning with following the highway carved by lava, then a cave part earlier than reaching a stone part that represents new life, together with limestone formations and endemic vegetation in forested areas, a real immersive journey by means of the volcanic stream.  

Different occasions embrace Hallasan hikes, together with the night sunrise hike by means of the pure reserve, forums with global leaders, and a heritage village to get pleasure from “excursions, experiences, and performances, and listen to the tough, particular, and trustworthy tales of people that had been born and raised on this World Heritage web site,” the festival site explained.