Busan attractions

Perched dramatically on Busan’s rugged East Sea coast, Haedong Yonggung Temple (Haedong Yonggungsa) is one of South Korea’s most impressive Buddhist temples. The original 14th-century structure was destroyed in the Imjin War. The rebuilt seaside temple is a rare example of a Korean temple not built in the mountains.

Offering a mile (1.4 kilometers) of silky sand, Busan’s Gwangalli Beach is a popular seaside destination for locals and tourists alike. In addition to being one of Busan's top swimming locales, the beach is also a go-to spot for nightlife, art installations, live music, and shopping. Day or night, Gwangalli Beach offers amusement for all.

Situated within Andong Dam Folk Village, Andong Folk Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional folk cultures behind everyday life in the Andong region of Korea, from births to funerals. Learn about the region’s Buddhist and Confucian influences and see how people used to eat, work, and marry throughout past and present eras—from the Confucian coming-of-age ritual known as Gwanrye to jerye ceremonies, meant to honor one’s departed ancestors. The outdoor section is home to more than 20 perfectly-preserved thatched-roof hanok houses.

Listed by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest department store—covering an area coming in at 3.16 million square feet (293,905 square meters)—Busan’s Shinsegae Centum City is more than a retail destination. In addition to its 12 floors of stores, you’ll find a golf range, skating rink, cinema, and the famous Spaland bath house, not to mention scores of restaurants ranging from fast food to fine dining.

Running from Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) Square to Nampo Station, Nampo-dong is Busan’s hotspot for street food and world-class shopping. Visitors will find the best of both on pedestrian-friendly Gwangbok-ro Fashion Street. Add to this the curious side alleys and nearby attractions like Yongdusan Park, and there’s something to stimulate anyone’s interest in this energetic neighborhood.

Home to more than 100 optical illusions, Trick Eye Museum Busan offers opportunities to take a collection of mind-bending selfies and photographs. Interact with all of the 3D-appearing artworks alongside staff who are on hand to ensure your entire group is featured in the photographs.

Any time of day, you’ll find locals and tourists alike soaking in the sounds, flavors, and scents at Gwangbokdong Food Street. Boasting over 100 shops, this culinary stretch is often compared to Seoul’s Myeong Dong, but its distinctive street food and Busan culture give it a unique local identity.

Perched atop the peak of Busan’s Mount Geumjeong, Geumjeongsanseong—the largest mountain fortress in South Korea—is now an imposing ruin and popular hiking spot. It has a long history: The original fort is believed to have been built during the Three Kingdoms Period from 57 BC to 668 AD The 2.5-mile-long structure that remains standing today was built in 1703 as protection against Japanese invasions following the Imjin War at the end of the 16th century.

Home to hundreds of winged species, Junam Wetlands Park (Junam Jeosuji) is every birder’s dream. During winter, an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 birds enter the park daily, with white-naped cranes, spoonbills, swans, and mallards among the different types you may see. Its proximity to Busan makes it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.