Jeju Camellia Hill in Winter: When to Go and How to Get There
The best time to see camellias at Camellia Hill on Jeju is roughly from late November to February, with the red winter camellias usually at their peak around December and January. Camellia Hill is a large botanical garden in Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo, in the south-west of the island. You can reach it by taxi in under an hour from Jeju Airport, by rental car, or by public bus with a transfer. Bloom timing changes a little every year, so check the garden's official channels or recent photos before you go.
This guide covers when to visit, how to get there with or without a car, what to see inside and how to combine it with other winter flower spots on Jeju.
When do the camellias bloom on Jeju?
Camellias are Jeju's signature winter flower. Different varieties bloom at different times, which is why the season feels long:
- Late autumn to early winter (around November–December): sasanqua-type camellias, often pink and white, open first. Their petals fall one by one and carpet the paths.
- Mid-winter (around December–February): the classic deep red Korean camellias bloom. The fallen whole flowers on dark green leaves are the image most visitors come for.
- Late winter to early spring: some later varieties continue into March, while the garden moves on to other seasonal plants.
Because the season depends on temperature, sources give slightly different peak windows. If camellias are the main reason for your trip, December and January are the safest bets.
Where is Camellia Hill?
Camellia Hill (카멜리아힐) is in Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, between the Jungmun resort area and the south-west coast. The address is 166 Byeongak-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si. Type the Korean name into Naver Map or Kakao Map for the most reliable directions.
How to get to Camellia Hill
By taxi
From Jeju Airport the ride takes around 50 minutes, depending on traffic. From the Jungmun resort area it is a short taxi ride. Taxis are a good option for small groups because they save a bus transfer. Kakao T is widely used for calling taxis on Jeju.
By rental car
Driving gives you the most freedom to combine Camellia Hill with other western and southern sights. The garden has its own car park. Note that you need an International Driving Permit (or a Korean licence) to rent a car in Korea.
By public bus
There is no single direct bus from Jeju City. The usual route is an express or intercity bus from Jeju City or the airport towards the south-west, then a local bus to the stop near the garden. Bus numbers and routes on Jeju are reorganised from time to time, and online guides disagree, so do not rely on an old route number. Instead:
- Search for 카멜리아힐 in Naver Map or Kakao Map and choose the public transport option.
- Allow well over an hour from Jeju City, including the transfer and a short walk.
- Check the last bus back before you go in, as rural routes run less often.
For more on getting around without a car, see our Jeju bus guide.
By tour
Many western-Jeju day tours stop at Camellia Hill along with other sights in the area. This is an easy choice if you do not drive and want to see several places in one day.
What to see inside
Camellia Hill is a big garden with many camellia varieties from Korea and around the world, planted along winding paths. Highlights include:
- Camellia paths and tunnels: the main photo spots, especially when fallen flowers cover the ground.
- Greenhouse areas: useful on a windy or rainy day.
- Seasonal displays: outside camellia season the garden is known for other plants, such as hydrangeas in summer and pink muhly grass in autumn.
- Café and shop: a good place to warm up on a cold day.
Plan on one to two hours. Wear comfortable shoes, because the paths go up and down, and dress for wind: Jeju winters are mild compared to Seoul but often breezy.
Other winter flower spots on Jeju
If you love camellias, there are other places worth a look:
- Wimi-ri Camellia Colony on the south-east coast, a village grove with a long history.
- Jeju Camellia Arboretum in Namwon, known for its sasanqua trees.
- Canola (rapeseed) fields start to bloom yellow in late winter and early spring in areas near Seongsan and Sanbang-san.
Planning an east-side day too? Pair it with our Seongsan Ilchulbong sunrise guide.
Raya from POPORO CITY says the trick at Camellia Hill is to look down as well as up: the fallen red flowers are half the show.
Quick tips
- Go in December or January for the best chance of red camellias.
- Arrive early on weekends; tour buses arrive later in the morning.
- Search 카멜리아힐 in a Korean map app for current bus routes.
- Check opening hours and admission on the official site before you visit.
- Bring a windproof layer; Jeju's winter wind can be strong.
- Combine it with Jungmun or the south-west coast to save travel time.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Camellia Hill?
Late November to February is camellia season, with the red winter camellias usually at their best around December and January.
Can I get to Camellia Hill by bus?
Yes, but it usually involves a transfer and takes over an hour from Jeju City. Check the current route in Naver Map or Kakao Map, because bus numbers change.
How long should I spend at Camellia Hill?
One to two hours is enough for most visitors, a bit longer if you love photography.
Is Camellia Hill worth visiting outside winter?
Yes. The garden has seasonal displays all year, including hydrangeas in summer and pink muhly grass in autumn, though camellias are its main attraction.