In this article, we invite you to explore the enchanting city of Busan in South Korea and discover its top 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Busan.
Index
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ① Gamcheon Culture Village
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ② Songdo Beach
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ③ Taejongdae
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ④ Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ⑤ Beomeosa Temple
- Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ⑥ Busan Station Chinatown
- Recommend Readings about Korea
From the colorful streets of Gamcheon Culture Village to the breathtaking coastal beauty of Taejongdae, Busan offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of Haedong Yonggungsa and Beomeosa temples, and indulge in the delectable flavors of Busan Station Chinatown. Join us on a virtual journey as we uncover the diverse and captivating attractions that make Busan a truly unforgettable destination.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ① Gamcheon Culture Village
Address: 200 Gamnae 1-ro, Gamcheon 2-dong, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea
Gamcheon Culture Village, also known as the “Machu Picchu of Korea,” is a village characterized by houses arranged in a staircase-like manner along the mountainside. In the 1950s, it served as a refuge for war refugees, enduring a difficult life. Through the “Village Art Project” initiated by local artists and residents, the village has transformed into a beautiful and unique space. In 2019, it became a popular tourist attraction, with over 3.08 million visitors.
※ Brief Cultural Tip: Refugees move from a place where they are facing difficult situations such as natural disasters, fires, or conflicts, while war refugees refer to those who relocate to escape wars or turmoil.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ② Songdo Beach
Address: Amnam-dong, Busan, South Korea
Located in Busan’s Seo-gu district, Songdo Beach is famous for its sea cable car. It is conveniently close to Nampo-dong and can be visited together with Gamcheon Culture Village.
Songdo Sea Cable Car: Stretching 1.62 km from Songlim Park on the east side of Songdo Beach to Amnam Park on the west side, this cable car crosses the sea. It offers a thrilling experience with its transparent floor. The one-way fare is 16,000 won, and it operates from 9 AM to 8-9 PM.
Songdo Yonggung Cloud Bridge: Reconstructed from the Songdo Cloud Bridge, which connected Geobukseom Island to Songlim Park, the Yonggung Cloud Bridge now connects the east island to Amnam Park. It spans 127 meters in length and 2 meters in width, providing an exhilarating walk above the sea. It operates from 9 AM to 5-6 PM.
Amnam Park: A well-designed park with a coastal promenade.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ③ Taejongdae
Address: 24 Jeonggang-ro, Dongsa-dong, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea
Designated as National Scenic Site No. 17, Taejongdae is located at the southeastern tip of Yeongdo Island in Busan. It showcases a stunning landscape of lush forests and rocky cliffs, which are not easily found elsewhere in the country. It is recognized as one of the top tourist destinations in Busan and was featured on the KBS variety show “1 Night 2 Days.” You can also find a grilled clam restaurant from the show at Taejongdae.
If you have enough time, it is recommended to start from Yeongdo Entrance and explore the Jeollyeong Coastal Walkway, which leads to the steep cliffside housing area, and then proceed to Taejongdae.
Jeollyeong Coastal Walkway: A scenic walkway that preserves its natural beauty as it was previously restricted due to military protection.
Yeongdo Cliff Housing Area: A residential area perched on steep cliffs, offering a close view of the sea.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ④ Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Address: 86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea
As mentioned earlier, this is a must-visit destination in Busan. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was built in the 14th century and served as the royal temple of King Gongmin during the Goryeo Dynasty. It is said that the temple was founded when the Buddhist monk Hyegeun, who had studied in China, had a dream in which a dragon appeared and advised him to build a temple at the edge of Bongraesan Mountain. Initially named Bomoonsa Temple, it was later expanded and renamed Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in the 1970s. It is considered one of the most beautiful coastal temples worldwide.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ⑤ Beomeosa Temple
Address: 250 Beomeosa-ro, Cheongnyong-nopo-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Beomeosa Temple boasts a thousand years of history and is located on Geumjeongsan Mountain in Busan. It was founded by a prominent Buddhist monk who returned from studying in Tang Dynasty China during the Silla Kingdom period. The name “Beomeosa” translates to “fish coming down from the heavens” because it is said that golden fish descended from the sky and played in a well. Geumjeongsan Mountain, where Beomeosa Temple is situated, offers stunning views, including the magnificent Gondang Peak and the largest fortress in South Korea, Geumjeongsanseong Fortress.
Must-Visit Attractions in Busan ⑥ Busan Station Chinatown
Address: 571 Chorangi 1-dong, Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Although not very large in scale, Busan Station Chinatown is worth a visit as it is located just across from Busan Station. It has been featured on television for its delicious Chinese restaurants, making it a great place for culinary exploration.
Recommend Readings about Korea
1/ 5 Tips for Korean Fashion : How to Wear the Latest Trends (Link)
2/ Top 8 Recommended Korean Dramas on Netflix for 2023 (Link)