Busan is South Korea’s second biggest metropolitan area. This flourishing metropolis embodies the distinct modern homogenous culture that South Korea is known for. Situated at the country’s southeastern region, the city is surrounded by steep hills and separated by mountains and rivers like the Nakdong and Suyeong. Busan is South Korea’s main port that regularly accommodates international cargo ships. It is also a crucial access point for passenger ferries to and from Japan and Jeju Island.
The Beaches
Busan is considered to be Korea’s premier summer destination because it is home to several beautiful beaches scattered amidst the backdrop of modern infrastructure.
Haeundae Beach first became noticeable because of its hot springs. Today, it is considered to be the most popular beach in all of South Korea. Hundreds of people flock to this beach, especially during the summer and weekends. It is the favorite venue for special events such as weddings and birthdays. There are several hotels in the area as well as casinos that cater to foreign guests. As you stroll along the beach walkway, you can see food stalls lined up with local delicacies ready and waiting for you.
Gwangalli Beach has the finest sand of all the beaches in Busan. It is usually the venue for major festivals and events like the Busan Sea Festival and Cherry Blossom Tree Festival. There are several tourist spots in the area, the most notable ones are the string of cafes with exquisite architecture. There are numerous entertainment spots located here including a theater, galleries and designer boutiques.
Songjong Beach is a less commercialized beach, with its golden sand adorned with seashells. This beach resort is only open for public use from July 1 to August 31. It has its fair share of hotels, restaurants and fishing areas.
Temples and Other Attractions
Beomeo-sa is one of the largest Hwaeom Buddhist temple in the South Korea’s southeastern region. It includes a main shrine called Daeung-jeon, stone lantern and three-story pagoda. Access to the temple requires an admission fee. Haedong Yonggung temple is another Buddhist temple, which is situated within the mountain with the sea at the background. Be sure to bring your camera when you visit.
Terjongdae Natural Park boasts gigantic cliffs that give you a breathtaking view of the sea. Busan Aquarium is considered to be the largest aquarium in the county, while Shinsegae Centum City is reputed to be world’s biggest department store. Dongnae is a famous spa complex where hot spring water flows directly into large tubs. A simple but meaningful cultural experience is a visit to the city’s main fish market in the early hours of the morning.
Nightlife and Harbor Area
The nightlife in Busan is nothing less than vibrant. You can see numerous bars and pubs lined up along the streets and walkways. In warm weather, South Koreans like sitting outside the pubs to eat traditional cuisine and drink sojju, a native distilled liquor.
Being in Busan is the perfect opportunity for you to try some fresh Korean seafood cuisine. Just beside the port, is the famous street called Foreigner’s Shopping Street. This street is the commercial and entertainment center for most visitors getting off ships and ferries and certainly lives up to it’s name.
