Last Updated on June 20, 2023
Busan is a port city located in South Korea and is the second largest city in the country by population. The city is home to three and a half million people and has a much larger metropolitan area.
The city benefits from a beautiful location and is overlooked by the stunning Geumjeong mountain. There are two rivers which run through the city at differing locations and these are the Nakdong river and the Suyeong river.
Busan is split into 15 different districts and is famous for many things. One of the most notable things about this city is that it is the cultural and economical centre of South Korea as well as being the centre for education, which is something that is very important in this country.
Not only this but Busan is known for being the sports centre and plays host to many sporting events and international conventions.
If you are thinking of travelling to Busan, you will not be disappointed with the great variety of things to see and do in this amazing South Korean city. In this article, we would like to share with you some of the most interesting and notable activities which you can experience whilst staying here.
1. Jagalchi Market
When visiting Busan, it would be terrible to miss out on the colourful and lively market that is Jagalchi. Get caught up in the vibrant atmosphere and integrate yourself with the local sellers.
The market is the largest in all of South Korea and provides tourists with a warm and friendly welcome and an opportunity to sample what Korean life has to offer.
The site is one of the ten landmarks of the city and gives a chance to try some local foods.
2. Haeundae Beach
If you want to step off the busy streets of the city and take in some of the beautiful ocean views that Busan has to offer, then why not visit the Haeundae beach where you will be met with beautiful golden sands and plenty of activities in the water.
The beach is known for its excellent swimming and fishing and provides guests with a chance to take a stunning sea-side walk.
There are usually many festivals hosted on the beach which makes for an interesting change and during the month of January, you can take part in the Polar Bear club which involved swimming in icy waters.
3. Haedong Yonggungsa
This Buddhist temple which was built way back in 1376 and is one of the most stunning temples you will ever sea. With beautiful views across the ocean are second to none. The temple was built by a teacher in the Goryeo dynasty and had to be reconstructed in the 1930s after the destruction caused during the Japanese occupation of Korea.
4. Sea Life Busan Aquarium
For lovers of all things animals, a trip to the Sea Life aquarium is a must when visiting Busan. There are over 35,000 animals here from across 250 species and these include otters, penguins and a huge amount of fish and marine life.
There are over 40 individual exhibitions here including a touch tank where you can get up close and personal with the creatures, which is great for kids. Other features include an 80 metre long glass tunnel for viewing the main tank.
5. Centum City
Located on the site of an old airport, Centum city is one of the best places for some retail therapy in Busan. There are a huge range of shops here to cater to every taste as well as plenty of places to stop and have something to eat or drink. The building can get very busy due to its popularity but it is definitely a must see.
6. Geumjeongsan
Geumjeongsan is a mountainous area which is home to a variety of peaks. The largest of these is the Godang-Bong mountain which stands at a whopping 800 meters and is a popular destination for hikers. There are a variety of Buddhist temples here and the area is famed for its BBQ goat which can be sampled whilst here.
7. 40 Step Culture and Tourism Themed Street
This is a historical street which was designed during the Korean war with the aim of housing new tourist attractions here. The iconic 40 steps are something that many tourists flock to see as well as the beautiful statues that are here which appeal to those with a love for art.
This is one of the main tourist spots in all of the city and is home to a variety of events throughout the year meaning that there will always be something new and interesting going on here.
8. 15 Feet Under
If you want to experience the night life of this vibrant South Korean city then one of the best places to do so is at this highly renowned club. Reviews on the place state that it is a must visit whilst in Busan, even if you only visit one night spot.
The club focuses on electronic music and has a techno disco which begins at midnight every weekend. The atmosphere is cozy and friendly and tourists are welcomed by the owners and locals.
9. Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dreams
This extraordinary fountain is unlike any other that you will have ever seen, not only is it huge in size but it features a stunning light display once the sun goes down and makes for one of the most popular locations in the city. You might decide to simply chill out around the fountain and chat with some of the friendly local people.
10. Camelia
Whilst in Busan, it would be criminal not to pay a visit to one of its most loved restaurants. The eatery has received excellent reviews and it is no wonder with the beautiful and colorful menu that is on offer here.
Specializing in fine dining, this restaurant is better enjoyed by couples and groups of adults rather than as a family place to eat. There are also some wonderful ocean views to be taken in here.
11. Busan Museum of Art
This museum is houses in a very modern looking building and is home to a variety of exhibitions both permanent and temporary. Lovers of art cannot miss the chance to explore what is on offer here and if you are travelling with children, there is a children’s gallery where the little ones can explore and develop their love of art.
12. Busan Modern History Museum
If you are interested in the history of Busan then this is the place to visit. It is a great place to learn about the culture and the things that have occurred in the city.
The building was erected during the Japanese occupation and after that ended in 1945, it was then used as an information center for the USA. Today the museum houses a wealth of information for the inquisitive tourist.
13. Bosu Book Street
If you are an avid reader and book lover then there is no place on earth quite as interesting as the Bosu Book Street. Lined with a huge variety of book shops this is definitely a readers paradise and something that should not be missed.
Located in the Bosu-dong, Jung district, visitors will find that they can spend hours browsing the book stores and perhaps stopping off for a well earned coffee. The environment is quirky and unique and has to be seen to be believed.
14. Gimhae Lotte Water Park
If you have children travelling with you then there is no better place to take them than this amazing water park. Set within a tropical feeling, Polynesian themed building, the park features a great array of water slides and pools including an excellent wave pool. There are plenty of places to eat here too so that you can fill up after all of the physical activity,
Conclusion
Busan is a city which has a lot to offer. From culture to cuisine and history to well being, there really is something for everyone. The city makes an ideal getaway for any type of traveler whether that is a single adult or a family. You will find that you will be welcomed with open arms by the local people who are known for their friendly approach to visitors to their city.
