BUSAN
GMT +09:00
Time zone
KRW
currency
30+
Places to go in BUSAN?
KOREAN
LANGUAGE
MAR - JUL
Best time to visit
Overview
Busan, located on the southeastern coast of South Korea, is a city that’s often overlooked by travelers in favor of Seoul. However, Busan has a lot to offer, from its beautiful beaches to its delicious food and rich cultural heritage. As the country’s second-largest city, Busan has a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore South Korea.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top attractions and experiences in Busan, from the bustling downtown area to the serene temples on the outskirts of the city.
Popular attractions of seoul:
Haeundae Beach
Gamcheon Culture Village
Jagalchi Fish Market
Beomeosa Temple
A BRIEF HISTORY OF BUSAN
Busan has a rich history that dates back over 4,000 years. Originally known as Geochilsan-gun, the city was renamed Busanpo in the late 1800s before being shortened to Busan in 1910. During the Korean War, Busan played a pivotal role as a major port city and served as the temporary capital of South Korea.
GETTING TO KNOW BUSAN
Seoul is also known for its modern architecture and sleek skyscrapers. One of the trendiest districts in Seoul is Gangnam, which gained global fame thanks to the viral hit song “Gangnam Style” by Psy. The district is home to high-end boutiques, chic cafes, and luxury hotels. Visitors can take a stroll down Gangnam’s main boulevard, Garosu-gil, and enjoy the stylish atmosphere.
COEX Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Asia and a shopper’s paradise. The mall features over 250 shops and restaurants, as well as a movie theater and an aquarium. Visitors can also check out the massive underground convention center, which hosts events and exhibitions year-round.
Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea, towering over 555 meters high. The tower features a luxury hotel, office space, and observation decks with breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can also explore the Lotte World Mall, which is located at the base of the tower and features over 1,000 shops and restaurants.
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN BUSAN
Haeundae Beach
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Busan, and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. The beach can get quite crowded in the summer months, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Taejongdae Park
Located on the southern tip of Yeongdo Island, Taejongdae Park is a beautiful natural area known for its stunning cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and panoramic views of the sea. The park is home to several historic sites, including a lighthouse, a temple, and a shrine.
Gamcheon Culture Village
Gamcheon Culture Village is a colorful hillside neighborhood known for its vibrant murals, quirky sculptures, and maze-like alleys. Visitors can explore the area on foot, taking in the unique artwork and getting a glimpse of daily life in Busan.
Jagalchi Fish Market
As one of the largest fish markets in South Korea, Jagalchi Fish Market is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers. Visitors can browse dozens of stalls selling a wide variety of fresh fish, crab, and other marine delicacies. Be sure to try the raw fish dishes, which are a local specialty.
FOOD AND DRINK IN BUSAN
Korean Barbecue
Korean barbecue is a staple of the Busan food scene, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. At these establishments, diners cook their own meat at their table, grilling up a variety of cuts such as beef, pork, and chicken.
Seafood
Given Busan’s location on the coast, it’s no surprise that seafood is a major part of the local cuisine. From sashimi to grilled fish, there are plenty of delicious seafood dishes to try in Busan. Some popular options include hweh (raw fish), eomuk (fish cake), and octopus.
Makgeolli
Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine that’s popular in Busan and throughout the country. It’s a slightly sweet, slightly sour beverage that’s typically served in small bowls. Many restaurants and bars in Busan serve makgeolli, so be sure to try it at least once during your visit.
Exploring Busan’s Culture
Temples
Busan is home to several beautiful temples that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich spiritual heritage. One of the most popular is Beomeosa Temple, which dates back to the 7th century and features stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Other notable temples include Haedong Yonggungsa and Tongdosa.
Busan International Film Festival
The Busan International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Asia and draws visitors from around the world. The festival takes place in October and showcases films from a wide range of genres and countries. It’s a must-visit event for movie lovers.
Busan Museum
For a deeper dive into Busan’s history and culture, head to the Busan Museum. The museum features exhibits on everything from prehistoric times to the modern era, with a particular focus on the city’s maritime history. It’s a great way to learn more about the city’s past and present.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting BUSAN
Busan hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Busan International Film Festival, Busan Sea Festival, and Busan Fireworks Festival.
The local currency in Busan is the South Korean won (KRW).
Busan has many popular attractions, including Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Fish Market, Taejongdae Resort Park, and Beomeosa Temple.
Busan is known for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy fresh fish at local markets and restaurants. The city is also famous for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, including dishes like dwaeji gukbap (pork soup) and milmyeon (cold noodles).
The best time to visit Busan is during the fall months of September to November. The weather is mild, and several major festivals and events take place during this time. Spring months of March to May are also a good option with warm temperatures and cherry blossoms in bloom.
