Top Things to do in Busan
Busan is one of the most striking Korean Destinations. There are mountains, sandy beach, steamy hotspring and tasty foods for your exploration.
To make your travel to this Korea second largest city, it is recommended to soak up the following experiences
Temple Stay at Beomeosa
Are you after a temple stay in Busan? Beomeosa is the best place for you. It is not only the largest, but this religious site is also the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The experience usually includes strolls around the temple structures, chats with the monks, make a beaded bracelet and lessons on how to do Korean meditation.
Lantern Festival at Samgwangsa
Busan is a paradise for those who are passionate about festival celebrations. It hosts a number of them, and Lantern festival at Samgwangsa temple is one of those you shouldn’t omit. This event is meant to celebrate Buddha’s birthday. Every year in May, trippers come in to admire beautiful views of a thousand lanterns that cover the temples to form a canopy over the courtyard.
Hike to the Cliff Carvings of Seokbulsa
Seokbulsa is less known but deserves a visit if you prefer to get a bit off the beaten track in Busan. Located at the southern end of Mount Geumjeongsan, this Buddhist site allures tourists with its 10 m cliff walls that are carved with Buddhas and temple guardians. Getting there is somehow strenuous but rewards awe-inspiring views of vast landscapes. It starts with the Geumgang cable car ride and later embark on a three-hour hike up to the temple.
Explore the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village
With its creative vibe, art exhibitions, shops and amazing restaurants, Gamcheon is a perfect stop for art and culture enthusiasts. It is traversed by several alleys. A leisurely walk is the best way to take in all what the village has to offer including beautiful murals, sculptures and art installations. Don’t miss to pose for some comely photos with the little prince and fox statues.
Spend a relaxing evening at Haeundae Beach
A holiday to Busan isn’t it without spending some beautiful moments at one of its pristine beaches. There are many, but Haeundae beach with its white sands and turquoise waters offers something exceptional. It’s girded by majestic skyscrapers, posh restaurants and coffee shops.
Admire the view from Yeongdodaegyo Bridge
Yeongdodaegyo Bridge isn’t more touristic, but it’s one of the best viewpoints in the city. From here you won’t stop appreciating the panoramic views of the harbor, the striking Gamcheon culture village and the picture-perfect Busan fish market. The sight is engaging during the day, but more appealing at night when colorful lights are on.
Enjoy the view from Busan Tower
Other than Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Busan Tower is a quintessential alternative for bird’s eye views of the entire city. Standing at the height of 120 meters, this monument can be seen almost from every corner of Busan. It is open for visitors from 10 am up to 11 pm every day.
Visit the Taejongdae Resort Park
Situated on Yeongdo Island, Taejongdae is an idyllic spot for laidback outings. It differentiates itself with imposing seascapes and landscapes along with lush greenery. For the best views of encircling scenery, make sure to take a relaxing stroll on the 4km loop road. Some of the spots to check out include the Taejongsa Temple, Tea Kettle Island and Taejongdae pebble beach.
Haedong Yonggungsa, the Temple by the Sea
If you are searching for unrivalled temptations in Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is among them. Built-in 1376, Haedong is one of the few temples in South Korea that are situated by the sea. Besides the striking grandeur and serene environment, this temple is a great location to admire sweeping views of sunrise/set.
Take a day trip to Tongyeong
Tongyeong hides its self at the Southern edge of the Korean Peninsula. It is crowd-free and has a lot to indulge in such as a tour around the enchanting Dongpirang village (known for beautiful art pieces). After venture further to the Tongyeong Jungang Market, a hub of delicious seafood.
Explore Busan at night
Busan has plenty of things to excite you during the day, but don’t miss to see its other face at night. This night experience awards spectacular views of the city’s landmarks like the Gwangan suspension bridge when illuminated with thousands of lights, the magical illumia park to name but a few.
Get high on the Oryukdo Skywalk
Extending over the cliffs, Oryukdo Skywalk can make you feel like you are walking in the sky. Views from this transparent glass bridge are magnificent and unbelievable. Try hard to visit in the springtime for exquisite sights of hills that are carpeted with wildflowers.
Stroll along Gwangalli Beach
Lined by cafes and bars, Gwangalli beach is a good locale for evening relaxations. It is quieter and calm than its neighbors. Nothing is more stress-relieving than taking a sunset stroll on its soft sands. At night the beach treats holidaymakers with scenic views of the light-up Gwangandaegyo Bridge.
Explore Gyeongju Seokguram Grotto
Seokguram Grotto is a superb addition for your trip to Busan. It is a stone temple and exhibits some unique designs and statue carvings you have to see before you leave the city. Endeavor to be at the UNESCO site very early in the morning, sunrise views from here are smasher.
Relax at Gyeongju Spring Dome
While in Busan, Gyeongju Spring Dome is the best for you to soothe all your nerves, unknot all the tensions and feel relaxed. It consists of sauna facilities, an outdoor kid’s pool and a natural hot spring.
Have a history lesson at Cheonmachong
For history in Busan, make your way to the Daereungwon Tomb in Cheonmachong. You will learn about the history of the kings of the Silla Kingdom and as well see the numerous historical artefacts at this complex.
Visit the beautiful Jukseong Catholic Church
If religion is a good deal more than any other thing, the Jukseong Catholic church is for you. It is known most as the shooting location for the famed Dream Korean series. Aside from that, its architecture and views towards the sea are unmatched.
Visit the Busan Sea Life Aquarium
Busan Sea Life Aquarium is the best for anyone who can’t wait to learn more about different marine species in Busan. It is located near Haeundae beach and protects over 250 sea creatures. It’s amongst the top day trips from the city Centre.
Have fun at Busan Cinema Center
Busan Cinema Center is one of the most spectacular sights in the city. Mostly known as the headquarters of BIFF (Busan International Film Festival), this structure features the World’s largest cantilever roof. Its outlook is one of those you shouldn’t miss for gorgeous photos. Don’t miss a night striking view when the all building is lit up.
See the National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum on Yeongdo Island is inclusive of Busan’s must-sees. It consists of a 4D Theater, a children’s museum and an outdoor exhibition that features a real submarine. Once inside, you will feel like you are in a world of your own.
Busan Museum of Contemporary Art
Located next to BEXCO and Shinsegae Centum City, this Museum is dedicated to modern art. Its artworks are peerless and hard to find anywhere else. Apart from the children’s art library and cafes in place, this remarkable spot features the largest hanging garden in Korea. All that turn the locality worth to check out before you leave Busan.
Geumgang Park Ropeway ride to Mt Geumjeong
At 801.5 m, Mt Geumjeong is the tallest and the reason for most trips to the Northern part of Busan. There are other ways to get up to the top, but the Geumgang Park Ropeway ride is the best (it rewards sweeping views of the city). From the top, there is a network of trails that leads to various historical sites such as Geumjeong Fortress, Seokbulsa and Beomeosa temple.
Songdo Cable Car
For all those who are in Busan just to have fun, don’t miss the Songdo Cable Car ride. Opened in 1964, this ride starts from Songdo beach up to the renowned Amnam Park at the tip of the Peninsula. It offers spectacular views over the beach, Songdo cloud trails and picturesque landscapes.
Hike Hwangnyeongsan Mountains
Busan isn’t only for the beach, culture or history lovers; it has more even for active travelers. One of them is Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, a great spot to visit for incredible hiking adventures. Trekking Hwangnyeongsan is a bit hard, but rewarding once you make it to the top. While at the peak, you will stand in awe with the impressive city views.
Cherry blossoms on Dalmaji Road
If you are visiting Busan to see the cherry blossoms, the best place in the city is the Dalmaji road. This road is located amid Haeundae and Songjeong beach. Between late March and early April, the walkway is filled with many exquisite cherry blossom and pine trees. During this season, the area is awesome for romantic walks with your loved one.
