Taejongdae

Located on the island of Yeongdo-gu, Taejongdae is a scenic park with great views from cliffs facing the sea. There is an evergreen forest to wander around in and several facilities for tourists such as an observatory, an amusement park with a full on Ferris wheel, a light house and a cruise ship terminal and, as you can see in the photo to the left, some funky modern Korean sculpture. The name of the area comes from King Taejong Muyeol (604-661), who liked to practice archery there following the unification of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. To this day Koreans are some of the best archers in the world garnering a wealth of medals in the Olympics. Take bus 88 or 101 from Busan Train Station.

(back to top)

Nurimaru/ Dong Baek Island

On the south-west end of Haeundae Beach you can take in some incredible views of the full breadth of Haeundae and Gwangan.

Busan Tower/Nampo Dong Market

Located in Yongdusan Park, the 118m tall Busan Tower is the area’s one true tourist trap, but well worth a look due to its central location to other great spots like Jagalchi Fish Market and Nampodong’s excellent shopping. And if you don’t have the energy to make the short hillside hike to the tower base, there is even an escalator to take you up. There are some good views of Busan Port even without going up the tower, and you can buy some corn to feed the local population of pigeons. The most popular attraction of the area —at least with the locals— is the enormous Nampodong Market. In the vast complex of booths and shops you can get everything from Western wear to electronics to traditional Korean crafts. The area also has a wealth of great restaurants offering the full spectrum of Korean cuisine. To get there take Subway Line 1 to Nampodong.

(back to top)

Busan Aquarium

Korea’s largest aquarium is conveniently located right on Haeundae Beach. The main tank on level two houses sharks and rays and thousands of other fish in 3,000 tons of water. Enjoy an underwater stroll through the concave shark tunnel. If you miss feeding time, feel free to take a swim at no extra charge. Be sure to check out the wild looking Eagle Rays while you are there. (Official Site)

(back to top)

Geumjeong Mountain Fortress

Completed in the 29th year (1702) of the reign of King Sukjong. The inner and the outer walls were mainly built of natural stones. Where there were weaker portions the Koreans reinforced the structure with large hand carved stone blocks. The walls were about 17 kilometers in length and from 1.5 meters to 3 meters in height. The area surrounded by the fortress is about 8.2 square kilometers. The construction of the fortress began in 1701 at the recommendation of Jo Tae-dong, the Governor of Gyeongsang-do province of which Busan was and is a part, and was completed a year later. In 1707 the walls were built around the main structure of the fortress. It eventually fell to disuse due to the difficulty of maintaining such a large perimeter. After lying empty for a century, it was repaired in 1807, the seventh year of the reign of King Sunjo. To get there: Take Subway Line 1 to Myeongnyun-dong. From there it is about a 15 minute walk west to the cable car.

(back to top)

Beomeo Temple

One of Korea's “Great 5 Temples,” this large, incredibly serene, temple complex is accessible by subway and then a short taxi or bus ride to the foothills. Founded in 678, the temple offers a unique view into the life of Korea’s Buddhist Monks. To get there, take Subway Line 1 to the Beomeosa station. Then go out exit 5 from the station. From there you can hop in a taxi or take the city bus up the mountain. Beomeosa is open all year.

(back to top)

Haedong Yonggung Temple

The magnificent Yonggung Temple near Haeundae Beach is a must see with its scenic coastal view. Thousands of tourists as well as spiritual pilgrims make their way to Haedong Yonggung Temple every year to find peace in the soothing sound of the sea. And if you were wondering why the store was out of Buddha figurines, you will find out soon enough.

(back to top)