A quick guide to tangerine picking in Jeju

High sugar content and thin rinds – the two distinct traits of Jeju’s tangerines that made it stand out from the rest of the World. On Jeju island, it is not unusual to see a tangerine tree planted in their backyard.

We went ahead with our tangerine picking experience while we were in Jeju. This activity is a cost-efficient alternative for any travellers who would like to try the famed Jeju tangerines at affordable prices.

Overview

• Tourist-friendly Tangerine Farms in Jeju
• How Should You Pick The Tangerines?
• Perfect Season for Tangerine Picking in Jeju
• How Much Does Tangerine Picking Cost?
• Basic Tangerine Picking Etiquette

Tourist-friendly Tangerine Farms in Jeju

We visited a farm that is located within Jeju City. There is no direct bus to this place, a brief walk is required so it will be much convenient if you have a rental car.

The owner welcomed us with a bright smile and speaks basic English. If you understand Korean language, she will explain more about the different varieties of citrus fruit on the farm.  Apart from just picking tangerines, there are many ‘photo spots’ decorated with props for photo taking. However, we were more keen in the traditional game called tuho, literally means throwing arrows into a jar – this used to be played among the royals or upper class.

After your tangerine picking session, the owners will pack your tangerines into a bag and there are self-serve tangerine or yuzu tea alongside tangerine jam and crackers. You may also purchase the jam at the shop.

Gyulhyanggi Experience Farm 체험농장 귤향기

Address
160 Nohyeong-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Google Maps | Naver Map

Alternatively, here are a few different tangerine farms that welcome visitors for tangerine picking experience:

How Should You Pick The Tangerines?

Each person is given a pair of gloves to protect your hands. I really appreciate that our farm provides bright floral print gloves that are perfect for looking like an ajumma (referring to a middle-age lady in Korean).

You will also get a pair of pruning shears to cut the twigs – two steps to getting the tangerine off the tree. The first step is to cut the twig holding the tangerine, next cut the leaves off the stalk. Anyone can do it.

Perfect Season for Tangerine Picking in Jeju

We went at the beginning of November as the period from October to February is the peak season for tangerines. If you are in Jeju within this period, you don’t want to miss this amazing experience!

However, if you are not, don’t be disappointed yet as different citrus varieties actually have different peak seasons. From March to October, you can still experience picking tangerines in greenhouses and the peak period for greenhouse picking is during summer.

How Much Does Tangerine Picking Cost?

They vary according to the farms you go to. We paid 5,000 won per pax that includes admission, tools and 1 kg worth of tangerines to bring home. You can also eat the tangerines you want while you are on the farm.

Eat-all-you-can applies to most farms that offer the tangerine picking experience but the rates typically range from 2,000 to 6,000 won per pax.

Basic Tangerine Picking Etiquette

It was our first farm experience. We enjoyed it very much. Unfortunately, we also witnessed ugly behaviour and so here are some basic manners to have while enjoying the process and to make sure others enjoy it as well!

1. There are many varieties of tangerines on the same farm. Stay within the areas you were told and only pick those you are allowed to. Respect the rules as they are in place for a reason.
   
2. Don’t get upset because you picked sour oranges. Don’t go with the expectations of picking only sweet-tasting tangerines! Be realistic.
   
3. You can eat an unlimited amount of tangerines while you’re on the farm but do not throw away unfinished tangerines just because they taste sour – please do not waste food!

Enjoy the unique farm experience!

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