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. 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.