Busan Travel Guide

Songjeong -- On the far eastern side of the city lies its third-most popular beach. The northern, rocky part of this section of shoreline attracts fishermen, but the expansive sandy part draws big beach crowds -- though not nearly as big as the crowds that flock to the beaches of Haeundae and Gwangalli. That's because Songjeong is a bit out of the way. Still, it's worth a visit, and early risers should try to catch the sunrise from Haedong Yong-gungsa, the temple perched on the rocky cliffs above.

Haeundae -- Home to the most famous and frequented beach in all of South Korea, Haeundae attracts several hundred thousand visitors annually. Major resort hotels are perched above the ocean here, and a few offer the rare experience of soaking in an ocean-side hot spring. Though it's a bit far from the shore, this neighborhood offers both budget accommodations and a ton of shopping options.

Gwangalli -- Located near Haeundae, the Gwangalli neighborhood is also a hot beach resort location. Its open-air cafe street draws thousands of visitors with its neon lights and views of the Gwangan Bridge. Popular with the younger crowd, the area boasts galleries, a cultural center, and plenty of opportunities to shop. The beach's outdoor stage is also the center of rock concerts and various festivals throughout the year.

Nampo-Dong/Gwangbok-Dong/Jung-Gu -- The city's major markets are here, including the Jagalchi Market, the Dried Seafood Market, and the Herb Market, and there are inexpensive yeogwans (inns) within walking distance of them all. The Pusan International Film Festival (PIFF) is also held every September in (where else?) PIFF Square. Theater lovers will find small, funky productions being put on here, though sadly most are in Korean.

Yeong-Do/Taejong-Dae -- The island of Yeong-do separates the two halves of Busan harbor. The center of the island is residential, while its harbor front is rather industrial. But the island's southernmost tip belongs to Taejong-dae, famous for its views of the Korea Strait -- on clear days, you can see all the way to Japan.

Songdo The first of Busan's beaches to be used for recreation, Songdo underwent a 1-year coastal maintenance project and reopened in 2005. It's less popular (and less dramatic) than the beaches in Haeundae and Gwangalli, so its best for those looking to avoid huge crowds (though good luck doing that anywhere in July-Aug). Songdo is famous for Amnan Park and for its raw fish restaurants; this area is an ideal place to relax after a long day of sunbathing.

Eulsukdo/Dadaepo -- This island in the middle of the Nakdong River channel is the perfect resting place for migratory birds. A sanctuary for these avian visitors is found on the southeastern part of the island. On the western peninsula nearby is Dadaepo beach, the widest in the city. There is also a cultural center, outdoor concert hall, drive-in theater, and an inline skating rink.

Seomyeon -- The busiest area in Busan, the Seomyeon neighborhood has developed in to a sort of second downtown thanks to its open markets, underground shopping arcade, and cheap eateries (especially those in Mokja Golmok ["Let's Eat Alley"]). It's popular any night of the week with college students and young professionals. This is a good area to stay in if you're more interested in shopping and eating well than in hitting one of Busan's many beaches.

Dongnae -- Located north of Seomyeon, the Dongnae district houses one of the oldest known hot springs in the country. This is a great place to experience South Korea's hot spring and spa culture. The area is also home to Busan National University (PNU). Not surprisingly, the PNU area (Busan Daehaek-ap) has the city's newer bars, cafes, and nightclubs.

Geumjeong -- Geumjeong is home to one of the most famous Buddhist temples in South Korea, Beomeosa. A hike along the walls of the Geumjeong Fortress or a visit to the 500 wisteria vines is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Pack a picnic lunch and go for a hike to enjoy a bit of nature and the view.