Page 195 - Volcano and Geothermal Tourism

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The volcanic geotourism carved by several deep gorges. The most famous
attractions of Jeju Island topographic feature formed by erosion of the
volcano is the Yeongsilgiam, where a series of
Jeju Island’s volcanic features attract visitors strangely shaped rock formations are exposed
from around the world. The following section along a deep valley wall.
introduces some of the major geotourism features In recognition of its outstanding flora, fauna
of the island. and geologic features, Mt Hallasan was designated
as a Natural Monument in 1966, a National Park in
Mt Hallasan 1970 and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2002
Often shrouded in clouds, Mt Hallasan is a shield (IUCN, 2006). In 2007, Mt Hallasan, along with
volcano, standing in the middle of Jeju Island and the two other sites on Jeju received the prestigious
the highest peak in South Korea, reaching 1950m natural World Heritage designation (UNESCO,
above sea level (IUCN, 2007). Formed from 2009). The strenuous but rewarding hike to the top
approximately two million years of volcanic of Mt Hallasan and back can be completed in one
activity, the mountain is composed mainly of day with an early start. Those visitors who decide to
dark-coloured to light grey (basaltic to trachytic) take on the rigorous adventure are rewarded with
volcanic lavas and a variety of fragmented volcanic magnificent scenery along the trail and expansive
deposits with a small crater lake at its center views from the summit. Hundreds of thousands of
(IUCN, 2007). The flanks of Mt Hallasan are people visit this sacred mountain every year
dotted with numerous volcanic cones and are (UNDP-WCMC, 2007).

Figure 11.3 Aerial view of the Ilchulbong tuff cone and the eastern coastal area of Jeju Island
Note: Mt Hallasan, the central peak of Jeju Island is visible in the background.

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