Camellia Hill is a large garden in Andeok on Jeju's south-west side, planted with more than five hundred kinds of camellia from some eighty countries. It is billed as the biggest camellia arboretum in Asia, and in the cool months the red, pink and white blooms against dark glossy leaves are the main event. But the garden is designed to work in every season. Hydrangeas arrive in early summer, silver grass and pink muhly colour the Autumn Garden through October and beyond, and the paths, bird-song walkway and stone-walled lanes echo traditional Jeju villages. There are photo spots with seasonal dol hareubang figures and a woodland of camellia trees strung with lights and message garlands. A full circuit takes between about forty minutes and an hour and twenty minutes, depending on how many photographs you stop for.
When to go
The camellia season runs through the colder months, which makes this one of the most rewarding flower stops in winter, when much of the island is brown and quiet. Spring and early summer bring other plantings, hydrangea time is a favourite with visitors who like blue and pink blossom, and autumn is the season for grasses. If you only have one flower stop on your itinerary, check what is blooming for your travel month and be prepared for a quieter garden outside the headline season.
Hours and tickets
The garden is open every day of the year, with longer hours in the warm months and a slightly earlier closing from November to February. Last admission is an hour before closing. Tickets are priced by age group, with reduced rates for youths and seniors and discounts for children and for visitors with disabilities, and groups pay less. Small dogs under eight kilograms are allowed on a leash, though it is wise to confirm the current policy. The site is well set up for people who need step-free access.
Making a day of it
Camellia Hill lies near the south-west coast road, so it pairs well with O'sulloc Tea Museum, Hallim Park and a coastal stop. It is also close to Jusangjeolli and Yongmeori in terms of a day plan. Arrive early to enjoy the lanes before tour groups arrive, wear comfortable shoes for gravel paths and bring a light layer because the hilltop can be breezy. It is a relaxed place for couples, grandparents with grandchildren and anyone who loves a well-kept garden.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through themed garden zones, stone-walled lanes and camellia woods.
Best time
Winter mornings for camellias, early summer for hydrangeas and October for the autumn grasses.
How long
Forty minutes to just over an hour for a circuit, longer for photography.
Tips
Arrive early, check what is in bloom for your month and note that last entry is an hour before closing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Flower lovers and photographers, especially in the colder months.
- Families
- An easy, pleasant walk for children and grandparents.
- Couples
- A romantic garden stroll with plenty of photo spots.
- Pair with
- O'sulloc Tea Museum, Hallim Park and Yongmeori Coast.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
When are the camellias in bloom?+
They are the main attraction in the colder months. Other seasons bring hydrangeas in early summer and pink muhly and silver grass in autumn.
How long does a visit take?+
Between about forty minutes and an hour and twenty minutes for the circuit, depending on how long you stop for photographs.
What are the opening hours?+
The garden is open every day, with a slightly earlier closing from November to February than in the warmer months. Last admission is an hour before closing.
Can I bring a small dog?+
Leashed pets under eight kilograms have been allowed, but check the current policy before you travel.
Is it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?+
The garden is set up for barrier-free visits, though some lanes are gravel, so a sturdy stroller helps.
