Ultimate Guide to Hello Kitty Island in Jeju Island 헬로 키티 아일랜드

If you’re traveling to Jeju Island with kids or you’re a Hello Kitty enthusiast, a visit to Hello Kitty Island in Jeju Island is a must. Despite its name, Hello Kitty Island isn’t an island but a three-story building dedicated to showcasing special exhibitions centered around Hello Kitty, the beloved character adored by people worldwide. Here, you can explore a variety of exhibits, browse through a gift shop, and indulge in hot coffee and sweet desserts at the cafe. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the details about this incredibly cute destination. So, let’s jump right into exploring its charm.

How to get from Seoul to Hello Kitty Island

From Seoul to Jeju Island

By Airplane

The quickest way to go to Jeju Island is by airplane. From Seoul, you can depart from Gimpo International Airport. There is also a luggage service provided in Jeju.

• Gimpo Airport Address: 38 Haneul-gil Gangseo-gu Seoul (서울 강서구 하늘길 38)
• Duration: 55 minutes
• Cost: W10,000 ~ W100,000 ($7.5 – $75)

By ferry

Ferry rides are popular because they let you enjoy the ocean view while traveling. Some ferries can even carry cars and motorcycles, perfect for travelers who want to bring their vehicles to Jeju Island. You can admire the beautiful sea and watch the sunrise or sunset. Plus, there are cabins where you can sleep and wake up surrounded by the sea.

From Seoul, the Port of Incheon Coastal Passenger Terminal is the nearest one to depart from. It takes approximately 35 minutes by city bus from Jemulpo Station on Seoul Subway Line 1. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket booth. If you’re buying in person, arrive at least 40 minutes before departure. Ticket booths close 10 minutes before departure, so don’t arrive too late. Bring your passport or personal ID when boarding the ship.

• Address: 326Beon-gil, Gukjehangman-daero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon
• Departure: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays at 19:00
• Phone: 032-570-6000
• Website: www.icferry.or.kr (To use the online booking page, navigate to the coastal liner operation session and select the booking tab.)

From Jeju Island to Hello Kitty Island

By bus

From Jeju International Airport, take bus number 500. Get off at the Halla Hospital Bus Stop. Then, transfer to bus number 780. Get off at Teddy Valley Golf Resort Bus Stop. You can easily walk a little over a hundred meters from the bus stop to the Hello Kitty Island museum. 

To get to Hello Kitty Island from Jeju Bus Terminal, take bus number 344. Get off at the second stop, cross the road, and take bus number 282. Ride until you reach the “Teddy Valley Golf & Resort, Hello Kitty Island” bus stop. Cross the road again and walk straight until you see Hello Kitty Island.

By taxi

You can catch a taxi from anywhere on the island of Jeju. If you’re unfamiliar with the local language, having your destination written down is a good idea. Check out our article on the best apps to use in Korea.

Tips

• Check for Special Events: Before your visit, check the Hello Kitty Island website or inquire with local tourism offices to see if any special events or activities are scheduled during your stay.
• Payment using credit cards is accepted. Cash is very much appreciated.
• Plan for Souvenirs: Budget some time and money for shopping at the Hello Kitty Gift Shop, where you’ll find an array of irresistible souvenirs to take home.
• Pets are not allowed.
• Bring a Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture your favorite moments and adorable Hello Kitty sightings.
• Arrive Early: Hello Kitty Island can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early in the day will give you ample time to explore the attractions without feeling rushed.

What to do at Hello Kitty Island

Explore the Hello Kitty History Hall

History can be boring, but the Hello Kitty History Hall is anything but! It’s filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that trace the evolution of Hello Kitty from her humble beginnings to her status as a global icon. Here, you’ll discover red walls adorned with charming Hello Kitty paintings, perfect for snapping photos. And since it’s on the ground floor, it’s a perfect spot to kick off your Hello Kitty Island adventure and get into the spirit of things.

Watch a 3D Hello Kitty movie

If reading isn’t your thing and you’re craving new entertainment, head up to the third floor, where you’ll find the 3D theater. Here, you can kick back and watch Hello Kitty cartoons, taking a trip down memory lane. Let yourself be whisked away by the enchanting tales of friendship, courage, and, of course, the irresistible charm of Hello Kitty!

Take Instagram Photos at the Stunning Photo Zones

Get your cameras ready because Hello Kitty Island is a paradise for Instagram-worthy photos. From life-sized statues to themed backdrops and interactive displays, each photo zone offers the perfect opportunity to channel your inner Hello Kitty fan and create unforgettable moments. Here are some famous spots you can refer to: 

• Hello Kitty ‘Christmas’ tree: You’ll spot a giant Hello Kitty tree made of Hello Kitty plushies in the middle of the ground floor lobby, stretching to the museum’s second floor. It’s a favorite spot for photos, and it’s easy to see why!
• Hello Kitty house: For Hello Kitty fans longing for their own themed home, this house on the ground floor is a dream come true. Every aspect, from the carpet to the living room and dining area, is decked out with Hello Kitty décor.

• Hello Kitty room: During special events, Hello Kitty’s room on the 2nd floor gets themed makeovers. For example, it’s decorated in October with Halloween colors like purple and orange, matching the autumn vibes.
• Hello Kitty Library: On the second floor, there’s a special Hello Kitty library with an open book canopy. It’s a popular spot for visitors to snap Instagram-worthy photos.
• Red telephone photo booth: This spot is a favorite for many visitors. You can take a picture inside the photo booth with an adorable Hello Kitty wall behind you.

Shop for Hello Kitty souvenirs

No trip to Hello Kitty Island would be complete without picking up some souvenirs to remember your visit. The gift shop on the ground floor has super cute souvenir collections. You can buy shirts, bags, mugs, and other souvenirs to bring back home. Besides Hello Kitty, you’ll also find souvenirs featuring other Sanrio characters.

Enjoy a Hello Kitty Cafe treat

After satisfying your hunger and Hello Kitty cravings at the museum, visit the cafe for dessert and photo opportunities. The cafe is adorned in various shades of pink with Hello Kitty motifs. Known for its super cute drinks, pastries, and snacks, the cafe is incredibly popular on Instagram. Plus, it’s not just about the looks—the taste is pretty good too!

Wander through the Hello Kitty Maze Garden

On the 3rd floor, you’ll find the Maze Garden. This is a hidden gem at Hello Kitty Island. It’s a whimsical labyrinth filled with Hello Kitty-themed surprises around every corner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air and take in the beautiful surroundings of Hello Kitty Island.

Join a stamp tour to get a gift

This is a delightful experience you won’t want to miss. At each station, there’s a unique stamp representing that area. Collect them all, and you’ll receive a charming Hello Kitty badge as a souvenir.

Nearby attractions

Camellia Hill (카멜리아힐)

• Address: 166, Byeongak-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 안덕면 병악로 166
• Open hours: December-February 08:30-18:00 March-May, September-November 08:30-18:30 June-August 08:30-19:00 | Last admission: 1 hour before closing
• Admission: Individuals – Adults 8,000 won ($6) | Teenagers 6,000 won ($4.5) | Children 5,000 won ($3.7)
• Phone: +82-64-800-6296
• Website: www.camelliahill.co.kr

Situated in Sangchang-ri, Andeok-myeon, Jeju-do, Camellia Hill is more than just a garden—a vast recreation area and arboretum spanning over 170,000 square meters. With over 6,000 plant species, including camellias, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature here. Alongside camellia trees, the arboretum features palm trees, wildflowers, and more, as well as a grass plaza and an ecological pond. You can also find a gallery exhibiting camellia-themed crafts and a multipurpose seminar room. Camellia Hill offers various lodging options, from cottages to resorts, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

Andeokgyegok Valley (안덕계곡)

• Address: Gamsan-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
• Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330

For nature enthusiasts and hikers, Andeokgyegok Valley is a must-visit destination. Located just two kilometers east of Hwasun-ri, this picturesque valley boasts lush landscapes adorned with towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams. The Evergreen Forest, a Natural Monument, adds to the valley’s allure, providing a serene escape into the heart of nature.

Jeju Glass Museum (제주 유리 박물관)

• Address: 1403, Jungsanganseo-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중산간서로 1403
• Open hours: 10:00 – 20:00 daily
• Phone: +82 64-792-6262
• Admission: Individuals – Adults (ages 19 & over) 9,000 won ($6.7) / Teenagers 8,000 won ($6) / Children 7,000 won ($5.2)
• Website: www.glassmuseum.co.kr

Formerly known as the Gimpo Glass Museum and Songhee Glass House, the Jeju Glass Museum is a treasure trove of exquisite glass artistry. The museum opened on March 1, 2008, and features modern facilities like a glass art exhibition hall, studio with a kiln, glass-blowing room, and glass processing room. With a spacious area of 3,500 pyeong and a large grass field for displaying artwork, it’s perfect for study and learning. You can also join programs to learn more about glass art.

Jeju Aerospace Museum (제주 항공 우주 박물관)

• Address: 218, Nokchabunjae-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 안덕면 녹차분재로 218
• Open hours: 9:00 – 18:00 daily | Closed on the third Monday of the month
• Admission: Adults W10,00 ($7.5) | Youth W9,000 ($6.7) | Children W8,000 ($6)
• Phone:  +82 64-800-2000
• Website: www.jdc-jam.com

Prepare for an immersive journey into aviation and space exploration at the Jeju Aerospace Museum. As the largest museum of its kind in Asia, it offers an extensive collection of exhibitions and interactive displays on aerospace technology, astronomy, and related sciences. From historic aircraft to cutting-edge space exploration initiatives, you can delve into the wonders of flight and the cosmos.

Popular Tours & Activities in Jeju Island

In conclusion, from immersive exhibits to delightful treats and endless photo opportunities, Hello Kitty Island in Jeju promises a magical experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a fun-filled day out, Hello Kitty Island has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Hello Kitty Island in Jeju Island today, and let the adventure begin!

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