Busan travel guide

Busan Tourism | Busan Guide

You're Going to Love Busan

When Koreans and tourists alike need a relaxing getaway in South Korea, they head to Busan. The city is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, beaches, natural hot springs, and reserves, and great street eats, festivals, and shopping fill the pleasant days.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Busan

1. Busan International Film Festival

Busan has become the "Cannes" of South Korea. Every October, the city hosts the world's best films, making it a great spot to star-watch.

2. Gamcheon, the Santorini of the East

The Gamcheon cultural village is nestled on a picturesque hillside, with narrow alleyways and colorful houses. Don't forget your camera!

3. Brilliant Beaches

Soak up the sun and paddle the water at beaches like Gwangalli, Haeundae, and Songjeong.

4. Historic Temples

Beautiful temples such as Haedong Yonggungsa, Seokbulsa, and Beomeosa dot the city and are often at the top of hills, so you're rewarded with serenity and gorgeous views.

5. Hot Springs and Natural Spas

Check out Hurshimchung Spa, one of the largest hot spring spas in Asia, featuring milk baths, hot steam saunas, pools, and an outdoor section.

1. Busan International Film Festival

Busan has become the "Cannes" of South Korea. Every October, the city hosts the world's best films, making it a great spot to star-watch.

2. Gamcheon, the Santorini of the East

The Gamcheon cultural village is nestled on a picturesque hillside, with narrow alleyways and colorful houses. Don't forget your camera!

3. Brilliant Beaches

Soak up the sun and paddle the water at beaches like Gwangalli, Haeundae, and Songjeong.

4. Historic Temples

Beautiful temples such as Haedong Yonggungsa, Seokbulsa, and Beomeosa dot the city and are often at the top of hills, so you're rewarded with serenity and gorgeous views.

5. Hot Springs and Natural Spas

Check out Hurshimchung Spa, one of the largest hot spring spas in Asia, featuring milk baths, hot steam saunas, pools, and an outdoor section.

What to do in Busan

1. Beomeosa Temple: A Nirvana in the Mountains

Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Geumjeongsan is Beomeosa Temple, the name of which translates to "Temple of the Heavenly Fish". The legend surrounding the mountain, about a golden well that never dries, makes for a sacred and ethereal atmosphere at the temple. The bright flora is one reason visitors make a beeline for the park year-round -- in the spring, lavender blossoms and in the fall, beautiful foliage sets the mountain ablaze. Hike to Godang Peak, the summit of Mt. Geumjeongsan, and you'll be rewarded with a spot far above the clouds. Take part in various Buddhist ceremonies once you arrive back down to earth.

2. Taejongdae Park: The Beauty of Busan

The Taejongdae Park is a recreation area in Busan known for its beautiful rock beach, historic lighthouses, sacred temples and the South Port Viewing Point (an observatory and an amusement park). Whether you spend the day scaling the cliffs of Yeongdo-gu or embark on a cruise ship from the port, Taejongdae Park has something for everyone. The rainy season brings with it dense foliage but, on a clear day, you can see Japan's Tsushima Island from the observatory. Make sure to dress in layers as it can get colder and wetter the further up you go.

3. Haeundae Beach: Sun, Sand & Surf in Busan

With its miles of white, sandy shores and red and white parasols lining the crowded beach in neat rows, the Haeundae Beach looks like a scene out of the Caribbean rather than South East Asia. Some of the most beautiful beaches are dotted around Korea. The Haeundae Beach is the most famous, with visitors coming to enjoy its perpetual sun, pleasant temperatures and water activities like water-skiing and parasailing. During the winter, Haeundae Beach has its own version of the "polar dip" that takes place.

4. Haedong Yonggung Temple: A Temple with a View

Experience the wisdom of Buddhism with views that are made for philosophical contemplation. Even temples are an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and scenic views of Busan. Dating back to the 1300s, this temple is, even today, a huge draw for visitors who are looking for various viewpoints of Busan. Gorgeous gilded pagodas, historic statues of the Chinese zodiac and turquoise waters make this Buddhist temple a real draw for visitors and locals alike.

5. Jagalchi Fish Market: Fresh and Friendly

Not quite a night market, not quite a bazaar: the Jagalchi Fish Market is the place to go for fresh and dried seafood, delicious local cuisine, rare food finds and a veritable treat for the five senses. There are stalls selling items like fish jerky, live octopus and crustaceans you may never have seen before. Once you're done chowing down on hot pot and fish soup, fried eel and tons of fresh kimchi on the 'restaurant' level of the market, get an up-close look at the fishing boats and take in the seaside views from the dock.

Taejongdae ParkTaejongdae Park
Haedong Yonggung TempleHaedong Yonggung Temple
Jagalchi Fish MarketJagalchi Fish Market

1. Beomeosa Temple: A Nirvana in the Mountains

Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Geumjeongsan is Beomeosa Temple, the name of which translates to "Temple of the Heavenly Fish". The legend surrounding the mountain, about a golden well that never dries, makes for a sacred and ethereal atmosphere at the temple. The bright flora is one reason visitors make a beeline for the park year-round -- in the spring, lavender blossoms and in the fall, beautiful foliage sets the mountain ablaze. Hike to Godang Peak, the summit of Mt. Geumjeongsan, and you'll be rewarded with a spot far above the clouds. Take part in various Buddhist ceremonies once you arrive back down to earth.

2. Taejongdae Park: The Beauty of Busan

The Taejongdae Park is a recreation area in Busan known for its beautiful rock beach, historic lighthouses, sacred temples and the South Port Viewing Point (an observatory and an amusement park). Whether you spend the day scaling the cliffs of Yeongdo-gu or embark on a cruise ship from the port, Taejongdae Park has something for everyone. The rainy season brings with it dense foliage but, on a clear day, you can see Japan's Tsushima Island from the observatory. Make sure to dress in layers as it can get colder and wetter the further up you go.

3. Haeundae Beach: Sun, Sand & Surf in Busan

With its miles of white, sandy shores and red and white parasols lining the crowded beach in neat rows, the Haeundae Beach looks like a scene out of the Caribbean rather than South East Asia. Some of the most beautiful beaches are dotted around Korea. The Haeundae Beach is the most famous, with visitors coming to enjoy its perpetual sun, pleasant temperatures and water activities like water-skiing and parasailing. During the winter, Haeundae Beach has its own version of the "polar dip" that takes place.

4. Haedong Yonggung Temple: A Temple with a View

Experience the wisdom of Buddhism with views that are made for philosophical contemplation. Even temples are an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and scenic views of Busan. Dating back to the 1300s, this temple is, even today, a huge draw for visitors who are looking for various viewpoints of Busan. Gorgeous gilded pagodas, historic statues of the Chinese zodiac and turquoise waters make this Buddhist temple a real draw for visitors and locals alike.

5. Jagalchi Fish Market: Fresh and Friendly

Not quite a night market, not quite a bazaar: the Jagalchi Fish Market is the place to go for fresh and dried seafood, delicious local cuisine, rare food finds and a veritable treat for the five senses. There are stalls selling items like fish jerky, live octopus and crustaceans you may never have seen before. Once you're done chowing down on hot pot and fish soup, fried eel and tons of fresh kimchi on the 'restaurant' level of the market, get an up-close look at the fishing boats and take in the seaside views from the dock.

Taejongdae ParkTaejongdae Park
Haedong Yonggung TempleHaedong Yonggung Temple
Jagalchi Fish MarketJagalchi Fish Market

1. Beomeosa Temple: A Nirvana in the Mountains

Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Geumjeongsan is Beomeosa Temple, the name of which translates to "Temple of the Heavenly Fish". The legend surrounding the mountain, about a golden well that never dries, makes for a sacred and ethereal atmosphere at the temple. The bright flora is one reason visitors make a beeline for the park year-round -- in the spring, lavender blossoms and in the fall, beautiful foliage sets the mountain ablaze. Hike to Godang Peak, the summit of Mt. Geumjeongsan, and you'll be rewarded with a spot far above the clouds. Take part in various Buddhist ceremonies once you arrive back down to earth.

Taejongdae Park

2. Taejongdae Park: The Beauty of Busan

The Taejongdae Park is a recreation area in Busan known for its beautiful rock beach, historic lighthouses, sacred temples and the South Port Viewing Point (an observatory and an amusement park). Whether you spend the day scaling the cliffs of Yeongdo-gu or embark on a cruise ship from the port, Taejongdae Park has something for everyone. The rainy season brings with it dense foliage but, on a clear day, you can see Japan's Tsushima Island from the observatory. Make sure to dress in layers as it can get colder and wetter the further up you go.

Haedong Yonggung Temple

3. Haeundae Beach: Sun, Sand & Surf in Busan

With its miles of white, sandy shores and red and white parasols lining the crowded beach in neat rows, the Haeundae Beach looks like a scene out of the Caribbean rather than South East Asia. Some of the most beautiful beaches are dotted around Korea. The Haeundae Beach is the most famous, with visitors coming to enjoy its perpetual sun, pleasant temperatures and water activities like water-skiing and parasailing. During the winter, Haeundae Beach has its own version of the "polar dip" that takes place.

Jagalchi Fish Market

4. Haedong Yonggung Temple: A Temple with a View

Experience the wisdom of Buddhism with views that are made for philosophical contemplation. Even temples are an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and scenic views of Busan. Dating back to the 1300s, this temple is, even today, a huge draw for visitors who are looking for various viewpoints of Busan. Gorgeous gilded pagodas, historic statues of the Chinese zodiac and turquoise waters make this Buddhist temple a real draw for visitors and locals alike.

5. Jagalchi Fish Market: Fresh and Friendly

Not quite a night market, not quite a bazaar: the Jagalchi Fish Market is the place to go for fresh and dried seafood, delicious local cuisine, rare food finds and a veritable treat for the five senses. There are stalls selling items like fish jerky, live octopus and crustaceans you may never have seen before. Once you're done chowing down on hot pot and fish soup, fried eel and tons of fresh kimchi on the 'restaurant' level of the market, get an up-close look at the fishing boats and take in the seaside views from the dock.

Where to Eat in Busan

Tuck into delicious beef stews and side dishes for around ₩6000 at Seoul Kkakduggi. Enjoy an American-style breakfast for ₩15,000 at Eva's near Kyeongseong University. Don't miss out on the seafood fare at Ventanas Grill Steak and Seafood for ₩55,00 - ₩150,000.

When to visit Busan

Busan in March
Estimated hotel price
$136
1 night at 3-star hotel
Busan in March
Estimated hotel price
$136
1 night at 3-star hotel

Busan is best...all year long! The city enjoys a sub-tropical climate with a hot and humid summer. The fall and winter months are similarly mild, and the city rarely experiences snow.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Busan

Plane

Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is located 13 miles west of Busan's city center. To get into town, take the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail, the local bus for ₩1,000, or a taxi for ₩15,000.

Train

Travelers arriving in Busan by train use the high speed KTX train system from Seoul, Daegu, and Daejeon. The journey usually takes 2.5 hours and costs ₩55,500.

Car

Three main highways connect Busan to other Korean cities. Take the Gyeongbu Expressway when coming in from Seoul via Daejeon and Daegu. Travelers coming in from Gwangju via Jinju and Sacheon can use the Namhae Expressway.

Bus

Express buses to Busan arrive at either Dongbu Intercity Bus Terminal from the north and east, or Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal from the west.

Plane

Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is located 13 miles west of Busan's city center. To get into town, take the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail, the local bus for ₩1,000, or a taxi for ₩15,000.

Train

Travelers arriving in Busan by train use the high speed KTX train system from Seoul, Daegu, and Daejeon. The journey usually takes 2.5 hours and costs ₩55,500.

Car

Three main highways connect Busan to other Korean cities. Take the Gyeongbu Expressway when coming in from Seoul via Daejeon and Daegu. Travelers coming in from Gwangju via Jinju and Sacheon can use the Namhae Expressway.

Bus

Express buses to Busan arrive at either Dongbu Intercity Bus Terminal from the north and east, or Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal from the west.

Airports near Busan

Airlines serving Busan

KLM
Good (1,352 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (8,847 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,535 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,339 reviews)
Cathay Pacific
Good (874 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (886 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (1,042 reviews)
China Eastern
Good (258 reviews)
China Southern
Good (144 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,450 reviews)
Air China
Good (184 reviews)
Asiana Airlines
Excellent (486 reviews)
China Airlines
Excellent (793 reviews)
SAUDIA
Good (741 reviews)
Philippine Airlines
Good (987 reviews)
Vietnam Airlines
Good (238 reviews)
VietJet Air
Okay (150 reviews)
Hawaiian Airlines
Good (2,304 reviews)
T'way Air
Good (16 reviews)
Shanghai Airlines
Good (18 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Busan

Unwind at Haeundae Guesthouse, a well-priced option for backpackers, or check in to the Elysee Hotel, which is a decent mid-range hotel. You'll find luxury accommodation at Haeundae Grand Hotel.

Popular Neighborhoods in Busan

Haeundae-gu - located east of the city, this affluent beach area is most accessible for tourists and also has a great hiking trail at Jangsan Mountain.

Nam-gu - this district is loaded with great with bars, cheap restaurants, and small clubs and pubs owing to the local university population.

Dongnae-gu - relaxing and chic, this neighborhood is home to the Hurshimchung Spa.

Haeundae-gu - located east of the city, this affluent beach area is most accessible for tourists and also has a great hiking trail at Jangsan Mountain.
Nam-gu - this district is loaded with great with bars, cheap restaurants, and small clubs and pubs owing to the local university population.
Dongnae-gu - relaxing and chic, this neighborhood is home to the Hurshimchung Spa.
Most popular hotel in Busan by neighborhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Busan

Most booked hotels in Busan

Grand Josun Busan
5 stars
Excellent (9.2, 2345 reviews)
$154+
Paradise Hotel Busan
5 stars
Excellent (9.1, 2574 reviews)
$169+
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae
4 stars
Excellent (8.9, 1478 reviews)
$61+
Shilla Stay Haeundae Beach (BEXCO)
4 stars
Excellent (8.6, 4250 reviews)
$90+
Ananti at Busan Cove
5 stars
Excellent (8.6, 1663 reviews)
$165+
Lavalse Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (8.4, 2139 reviews)
$76+

How to Get Around Busan

Public Transportation

Getting around Busan using public transport is easiest when you have a Busan Hanaro Card, which can be used on everything, including taxis and local road tollways. It costs ₩6,000 and is rechargeable. Using it, fares are reduced to ₩990.

Taxi

Regular taxi fares start at ₩2800 and then ₩433 for every mile thereafter. Deluxe "mobeom" taxis are black and red and have a flat rate of ₩4,500 for the first 1.8 miles and then ₩775 per mile.

Car

Traveling around Busan by car is difficult if you're not used to the traffic and tight parking. Car rentals start at ₩85,988 for a compact 4-door from Avis.

Public Transportation

Getting around Busan using public transport is easiest when you have a Busan Hanaro Card, which can be used on everything, including taxis and local road tollways. It costs ₩6,000 and is rechargeable. Using it, fares are reduced to ₩990.

Taxi

Regular taxi fares start at ₩2800 and then ₩433 for every mile thereafter. Deluxe "mobeom" taxis are black and red and have a flat rate of ₩4,500 for the first 1.8 miles and then ₩775 per mile.

Car

Traveling around Busan by car is difficult if you're not used to the traffic and tight parking. Car rentals start at ₩85,988 for a compact 4-door from Avis.

The Cost of Living in Busan

Shopping Streets

The Lotte Department Store in Busan is incredibly popular, thanks to its linked hotel and cinema. Plan a visit to Nampodong, Busan's main shopping district.

Groceries and Other

Living costs in Busan are quite standard for the region. Milk is ₩2,480 per quart and a dozen eggs will run you around ₩3,442.

Cheap meal
$6.00
A pair of jeans
$58.56
Single public transport ticket
$1.03
Cappuccino
$3.71
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