Built in the late 1300s during the Goryeo Dynasty, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple sits directly on the rocky coastline. Unlike most Korean temples nestled in mountains, this coastal location was chosen because the founding monk believed the Dragon King of the Eastern Sea would grant people’s wishes here.
Originally built in the 1950s as a hillside shantytown for Korean War refugees, Gamcheon Culture Village was transformed into an open-air art gallery in 2009 when the government partnered with local art students to revitalize the neighborhood. Local artists continue to add new pieces to the murals, sculptures, and installations that wind through narrow alleyways and up steep staircases.
The Igidae Coastal Walk stretches along Busan’s southern coastline from Oryukdo Skywalk to Gwangalli Beach, following wooden boardwalks and natural trails built into the rocky cliffs.
Jagalchi fiskemarked er hjertet i Busans sjømatmiljø og det største av sitt slag i Sør-Korea. Hvis du er usikker på hvor du skal begynne, er denne enorme syv-etasjesbygningen som kun er dedikert til sjømat det perfekte startpunktet.
SEOKBULSA TEMPLE Buddhist temple in Busan perched on the hill This remote temple meaning “Stone Buddha Temple” is a hidden gem in Busan and it ended up being one of my favorite places we visited the entire trip. Other than a handful of other visitors, we had the place mostly to ourselves, but getting there does require a light 20-30 minute hike from the parking lot. What makes Seokbulsa so special are the giant stone buddha carvings lining both sides of the temple. On a clear day, if you climb the steps at the back of the temple, you’ll also get stunning skyline views of Busan, though it was a little hazy out the day we visited.
To visit another culture village, check out Huinnyeoul Culture Village on the Southwestern side of Busan. Originally a small fishing village, you’ll find buildings painted in hues of blue and white. Many people refer to it as the “Santorini of Busan,” which might be a little generous but it at least offers the same color palette. Huinnyeoul Culture Village offers pretty views and is a pleasant coastal walk. You can stroll through the many alleys to discover murals and photo opps. And while you’re there, pop into Having Moment Cafe for a coffee or a pastry while enjoying the views. They have a nice little patio as well as an upper deck. Other spots to explore nearby include Jeoryeong Coastal Walk (don’t miss the colorful piano stairs) and Huinnyeoul Coastal Tunnel. If you’re visiting only one cultural village on your Busan itinerary, I’d still recommend Gamcheon Culture Village because it’s more visually and historically interesting.
