Busan
Live Out Your K-Dreams 🇰🇷
Known for its lengthy beaches, breathtaking mountains and one-of-a-kind temples, Busan has something for everyone to enjoy. Being a large port city in South Korea, it is rarely missed by local and international travellers. It is a great place to spend a few days in, exploring the dynamic beauty of city, nature, history and culture.
Haeundae Beach
Beloved by both locals and tourists, Haeundae Beach is a top South Korean destination known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and stunning city and mountain views. The area is also famous for its delicious food and hosts numerous events throughout the year, so check the schedule before you go. Don’t miss Bay 101 for a breathtaking view of the city lights across the water! P.S. K-drama fans will recognize this spot from The King: Eternal Monarch.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Perched on Busan's northeastern coast, this historic temple offers breathtaking ocean views. Founded in 1376, it features notable sites such as Haesu Gwaneum Daebul, Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary, Yongwangdang Shrine, and the Gulbeop Buddhist Sanctum nestled in a cave. The four lion statues symbolize joy, anger, sadness, and happiness, adding to the temple's allure. Many visitors come here on New Year's Day to make wishes while watching the sunrise.
Oryukdo Skywalk
Conquer your fears on the 15-meter glass bridge, perched on a 35-meter-high coastal cliff. The glass floor is reinforced with a thick bulletproof film, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience. Enjoy stunning views of the waves below and capture spectacular photos with the sea stretching out ahead and Daemado Island visible on clear days.
Geumgang Park & Cable Car
Spanning over 3 million square meters, Geumgang Park boasts lush forests and rugged cliffs. Historically significant as a base for the Joseon dynasty government, it offers stunning contrasts between nature and city views. Enjoy the scenery from the hiking trails or a cable car ride. Nearby, you can explore the Busan Marine Natural History Museum and the Busan Botanical Garden.
BIFF square
Busan’s modern movie district, initially just a pair of cinemas from Korea's post-colonial era, was transformed before the inaugural Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) and renamed BIFF Square on August 14, 1996. Spanning 428 meters from Buyeong Theater in Nampo-dong to the Chungmu-dong overpass, the district now features "Star Street" and "Festival Street," playing a key role in Busan's rise as an international cultural hub.
Beomeosa Temple and Tea Ceremony
Perched at the eastern edge of Geumjeongsan Mountain, Beomeosa Temple, founded in 678, is one of the top three temples in the Yeongnam region, alongside Haeinsa and Tongdosa. Despite being damaged during the Imjin War (1592-1598), it was restored in 1613 and now features the Daeungjeon Hall, a prime example of Joseon Dynasty architecture. Visitors can also partake in a traditional Korean tea ceremony, an immersive hour-long experience showcasing the art of tea-making and the richness of Korean traditions.
Gamcheon Culture Village
It’s remarkable to consider that this popular tourist destination was once a slum during the Korean War, housing refugees in dire conditions. Over time, local artists revitalized the area by decorating its streets and houses, transforming it into a vibrant and inviting neighborhood. Today, it stands as a must-visit spot, drawing both locals and tourists to admire its stunning transformation. The area’s unique charm has also made it a Korean drama filming location for popular Korean dramas, including Goblin, My Mister, and Prison Playbook.
Yongdusan Park & Busan Tower
As one of Busan's most renowned mountains, it offers stunning sea views framed by dense pine forests. Legend has it that the peak, resembling a dragon’s head, once safeguarded the area from invaders. Today, the mountain is adorned with landmarks such as Cheokhwabi Monument, Chunghontap Pagoda, 4.19 Revolution Monument, and Busan Tower. Despite being scarred by fires during the Korean War, intense reforestation efforts have transformed it into a lush, picturesque park.
Photo Credit: Martin Puyou
Gukje & Jagalchi Fish Market
The largest fish market in South Korea! Here you can buy fresh seafood and have it prepared for you to eat on the spot. If you're not faint-hearted, stroll around and soak in the local atmosphere, where you'll encounter a variety of sea creatures, some quite rare. Such markets are common throughout South Korea, with each region specializing in different types of foods.
Dongbaekseom Island
Right next to Haeundae Beach, you can find a small island offering stunning views of Busan’s Haeundae Beach and nearby islands. If you enjoy beachside walks, check out the 4km Igidae Coastal Trail. This 2.5-hour walk takes you from Haeundae Beach, past Gwangangdaegyo Bridge, to Dongbaekseom Island, ending at the glass-floored Oryukdo Skywalk, where you can see the ocean right under your feet—a thrilling experience!
K-Drama Location: Shopping King Louis (2016)
Taejongdae
Known as a perfect representation of Busan, Taejongdae offers breathtaking views of mountains, the sea, and rocky beaches. Its highest peak reaches 250 meters, surrounded by forests with a huge diversity of trees, making it a haven for nature lovers. Taejongdae was named after the 29th King of the Silla Kingdom, King Taejong Mu-Yeol, as it was his favorite place for archery.
Geumjeongsanseong Fortress & Village
Standing 17km long and over 8km wide, this fortress is one of the largest in South Korea. Along with its rich history, it is renowned for preserving the unbeatable tradition of making makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine. Visitors can participate in a makgeolli-making program and try their hand at fabric dyeing and pottery, making it a unique and immersive cultural experience.
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