Whether you call it Pusan or Busan, you’ll have an incredible experience visiting the city. Located at the southern tip of South Korea, Pusan is the nation’s second largest city. While this is a big city, it offers more natural beauty than Seoul, the capital. Pusan has beaches, hot springs and beautiful parks. If you are looking for more of a city feel, Pusan delivers on that as well. You’ll find lots of shopping complexes and tall buildings, and Pusan is South Korea’s hub for trading and its port is the fifth biggest in the world. If you are cruising to Pusan, here are a few things to see and do:
Welcome to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, where the modern world meets rich history, stunning beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. If your cruise stops at Busan for just one day, you’re in for a treat! This coastal gem offers everything from ancient temples to beautiful coastal views, fresh seafood, and unique attractions. Whether you're into history, nature, or shopping, Busan and nearby Kyongju have something special to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your day in this dynamic city.
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Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea. Located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, this temple offers spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere. The temple complex features intricate architecture, statues of Buddha, and serene walking paths that lead you to the beach.
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the temple’s tranquility before the crowds arrive, and don’t forget to take a moment to breathe in the fresh ocean air.
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Explore Haeundae Beach
Next, head to Haeundae Beach, one of the most famous beaches in South Korea. This sprawling sandy beach is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The beach area is lined with cafes, restaurants, and luxury hotels. If the weather is nice, take a walk along the boardwalk or simply relax by the water.
Tip: Try some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants or enjoy a stroll around the nearby Dongbaek Island, which offers beautiful views of the coast.
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Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village
One of the most colorful and artistic neighborhoods in Busan is Gamcheon Culture Village. This hillside village is filled with vibrant, pastel-colored houses, narrow alleyways, and art installations that create a whimsical atmosphere. It’s a great spot for photos and to explore local art galleries, quaint shops, and cafes.
Tip: Be prepared for a bit of a walk, as the village is built into the hills. Take your time and explore the hidden gems around every corner!
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Check Out Jagalchi Fish Market
No visit to Busan would be complete without stopping by the Jagalchi Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in South Korea. Here, you can wander through rows of stalls selling a wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shellfish, and octopus. For a truly authentic experience, you can buy seafood directly from the market and have it prepared for you to eat on-site.
Tip: If you're feeling adventurous, try some live octopus, a local delicacy!
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Explore Beomeosa Temple
Head to the serene Beomeosa Temple, located in the foothills of Mount Geumjeongsan. This ancient Buddhist temple, built in the 7th century, is one of the most important temples in South Korea. It offers a peaceful environment and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You can explore the temple grounds, walk through the tranquil forest, and even spot some monks practicing their rituals.
Tip: If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider hiking up the mountain trails that surround the temple for a stunning panoramic view of Busan.
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Visit the Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park
For a bird’s-eye view of Busan, make your way to Busan Tower located in Yongdusan Park. The tower stands at 120 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the coastline. It’s an ideal spot for photos and to get a sense of the city’s layout.
Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through Yongdusan Park after visiting the tower. The park is a peaceful retreat and features various sculptures, including a statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a famous Korean military hero.
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Take a Walk Around Gwangalli Beach
Another scenic beach in Busan is Gwangalli Beach, known for its stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge, which lights up beautifully at night. While the beach is quieter than Haeundae, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk along the shore or enjoying a drink at one of the many beachfront cafes.
Tip: If you have time, visit the nearby Millak Waterfront Park for a relaxing view of the ocean and the bridge.
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Explore Kyongju: Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto
If you're willing to venture a bit further out of Busan, Kyongju, the historical capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, is only about 40 minutes away by train. Visit Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to Seokguram Grotto, where you’ll find a breathtaking stone Buddha, another UNESCO-listed site.
Tip: These sites are a bit further away, so if you’re pressed for time, you can focus on Bulguksa Temple, which is a must-see in Kyongju.
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Shop at Shinsegae Centum City
If you want to shop or just window-shop, visit Shinsegae Centum City, the world’s largest department store according to the Guinness World Records. This shopping complex features a wide variety of luxury brands, local stores, and even an ice skating rink and a spa. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely shopping experience.
Tip: If you’re looking for something special, head to the Café Street on the top floor for great coffee and stunning views of the city.
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Enjoy Busan’s Street Food
To wrap up your day, don’t miss out on Busan’s famous street food. Head to BIFF Square in the Nampo-dong area, where you’ll find a bustling street food scene. Sample local treats like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and sundae (Korean blood sausage). You can also try mil-myeon, a local noodle dish that’s unique to Busan.
Tip: Don’t forget to try ssiat hotteok, a Busan specialty filled with seeds and nuts, for a delicious dessert.
Busan is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, nature, and modern life. Whether you’re visiting the tranquil temples, strolling along the stunning beaches, or indulging in local seafood, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From the breathtaking views at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to the lively energy of Jagalchi Fish Market and the relaxing atmosphere at Gwangalli Beach, Busan offers something for everyone. If you’re willing to take a quick trip to Kyongju, you’ll experience the ancient heart of South Korea as well. Make the most of your one-day visit, and leave Busan with unforgettable memories of this captivating city.