24 Recommended Tourist Spots in Busan, South Korea! Introducing Their Charms

Busan, officially known as Busan Metropolitan City, is South Korea’s second-largest city and a well-known port town. It is also famous for hosting the annual Busan International Film Festival. With a population of around 3 million, Busan is not a particularly large city, but it offers plenty of spots where visitors can easily enjoy sightseeing. Unlike the dazzling atmosphere of big cities, Busan has a simple, warm, and welcoming charm that makes visitors feel at home. This comforting ambiance attracts many foreign tourists.

Now, let's introduce 24 recommended tourist spots in Busan.

1. Busan Tower

Yongdusan Park is a popular relaxation spot for Busan citizens, and within this park stands the iconic Busan Tower, a symbol of the city. The 120-meter-tall tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Busan’s major tourist attractions. At night, visitors can enjoy stunning nightscapes.

Yongdusan Park itself has many other attractions, such as the statue of General Yi Sun-sin, who defended Busan during the Japanese invasions of Korea (referred to as "Imjin War" in Korea), a flower clock, and a large bell built with donations from Busan citizens.

Busan Tower is a great spot for families with children and couples on a date.

2. Jagalchi Market

Jagalchi Market is known as "Busan’s Kitchen," where fresh seafood can be purchased at reasonable prices. As the largest seafood market in South Korea, it boasts over 300 varieties of fresh seafood available at all times. Many people travel from afar just to buy seafood here, which speaks to its reputation.

One of the best experiences at Jagalchi Market is that you can have the seafood you purchased cooked at a restaurant on the second floor. Eating freshly bought seafood right on the spot is a luxury that food lovers shouldn’t miss! Locals frequent this market from early morning to late at night, making it a great place to immerse yourself in Busan’s local food culture. Enjoy a meal with the locals or pair your fresh seafood with soju or makgeolli for an authentic Korean experience.

Most of the shop owners here can speak Japanese, making communication easy and enjoyable. If you're looking for a market where you can satisfy both your appetite and curiosity, Jagalchi Market is the perfect place to visit.

3. Nurimaru APEC House

Nurimaru APEC House is a convention center used for meetings and events. It was built in 2005 for the APEC Summit and is now utilized as a memorial hall and international conference venue.

With its stunning coastal scenery and natural beauty, it has also become a popular tourist attraction. Located in Haeundae, a famous beach resort area, it is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, making it a convenient place to explore Busan from.

From the observation deck next to Nurimaru APEC House, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Busan’s famous Oryukdo Islands, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, and Dalmaji Hill. Visiting at night is also recommended for its spectacular night views. Along the walking trail on the premises, you’ll find exhibits showcasing specialties from APEC member countries, so be sure to check them out!

4. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built in 1376, is a historic temple uniquely located by the sea, which is rare in Korea. It features many attractions, including the 10-meter-tall Seawater Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue, Daeungjeon Hall, a three-story stone pagoda, and the 108-step staircase leading to the temple.

It is believed that if you sincerely make a wish here, at least one of your wishes will come true, which is why this temple continuously attracts worshippers. Additionally, it is known as a spiritual power spot, drawing visitors from all over Korea who seek blessings and good fortune.

Spring is the best time to visit. The cherry blossoms near the entrance bloom beautifully, and on April 8th, Buddha’s birthday, the temple is decorated with colorful lanterns that light up at night, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers a perfect mix of spiritual energy and breathtaking coastal scenery, making it a must-visit spot in Busan!

5. Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is South Korea’s number one luxury beach resort and a must-visit spot in Busan, attracting numerous international tourists. The area is lined with luxury hotels, shops, duty-free stores, restaurants, and casinos, making it a convenient and lively tourist hub. Because of its exclusive setting, it is also a popular vacation spot for celebrities and notable figures.

With a capacity to hold around 120,000 visitors, Haeundae Beach gets extremely crowded in the summer! It can be so packed that enjoying a swim becomes challenging, so be prepared for large crowds. During winter, couples and families often visit for a relaxing seaside stroll, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze and scenic views.

The area is relatively safe and well-populated, making it a great choice for nightlife and late-night strolls. If you’re looking for an exciting beach destination, Haeundae Beach is the place to be!

6. Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village is a popular tourist spot known for its colorful, miniature block-like houses that create a vibrant and artistic atmosphere. Throughout the narrow alleys, various art installations and murals can be found, and the houses on the mountainside are painted in bright, cheerful colors.

It is sometimes referred to as "Korea's Machu Picchu" due to its unique and foreign-like scenery. While the area itself is not very large, the paths are quite maze-like and intricate. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to purchase a map from an art shop upon arrival. The map also includes a stamp rally, and if you collect all the stamps, you can receive a commemorative postcard.

Gamcheon Culture Village is especially popular among young travelers, and by midday, the area becomes quite crowded. Visiting early in the morning allows for a more relaxed experience and better photo opportunities.

7. Gukje Market

Gukje Market is a massive marketplace with around 1,200 shops, offering a wide variety of products such as clothing, accessories, household goods, electronics, furniture, and tools. It is a popular shopping destination for both Busan locals and tourists.
Previously, most shops focused on daily necessities, but in recent years, trendy accessory stores and fashion boutiques have increased, making it a favorite spot for young people. Many Japanese tourists visit to shop for affordable Korean fast fashion. Since most items are reasonably priced, it is an ideal place to buy souvenirs.
Gukje Market offers a thrilling treasure hunt-like experience, with shops of all kinds catering to visitors of all ages. It’s a must-visit destination for a fun shopping adventure!

8. Shinsegae Spa Land

Shinsegae Spa Land is a relaxation facility that grand opened in March 2009. Spanning approximately 2,400 pyeong (about 7,900 square meters), it features natural hot springs, open-air baths, saunas, restaurants, nail salons, massage services, and esthetics, making it a perfect destination for relaxation.
The spacious locker rooms and powder rooms allow visitors to enjoy a comfortable and uncrowded experience. If you want to experience Korea’s famous jjimjilbang (Korean sauna), this facility is highly recommended over regular city saunas.
Note: Children below elementary school age are not allowed to enter, so be mindful of this policy when planning your visit.

9. Busan Marine Natural History Museum

The Busan Marine Natural History Museum is South Korea’s first marine history museum. It was established to raise awareness among Busan citizens about the importance of the ocean for marine life and how to protect it from increasing pollution.
The museum houses over 25,000 specimens and natural history materials collected from around 100 countries worldwide. It also features a theater for educational films, along with large dinosaur and whale sculptures, making it an engaging and kid-friendly attraction. The clear and interactive exhibits make it a great place to visit with children.

10. Geumjeongsan (Geumjeong Mountain)

For trekking in Busan, Geumjeongsan (Geumjeong Mountain) is the top choice. Though not very tall, this mountain is famous for its vast forests, crystal-clear spring water, and breathtaking rock formations, making it one of Busan’s most scenic spots.
The mountain is also home to Geumjeong Fortress, the largest mountain fortress in Korea, often referred to as the "Great Wall of Korea." It is a popular tourist destination, especially as hiking has become a major trend among older Koreans in recent years. As a result, Geumjeongsan is crowded with hikers on weekends.
With over 2,300 species of plants and animals and 14 natural springs, Geumjeongsan is an unexpected paradise just a short distance from Busan’s city center. Be sure to try the famous black goat dishes and Geumjeongsanseong Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) when visiting!

11. Yu Chi-hwan Post Observatory

The Yu Chi-hwan Post Observatory (Cheongmande) is an observation deck located on the hillside of Choryang-dong. It was built to honor the spirit and achievements of Yu Chi-hwan, a poet and educator who contributed to Busan’s cultural and educational scene. Since it is positioned on a high point overlooking Busan Port, it is a popular scenic spot visited by both locals and tourists.
One of the observatory’s unique features is its red postbox. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary mailbox, but it offers a romantic experience—letters sent from here will be delivered exactly one year later. You can write a letter to your future self or send one to a loved one, making it a meaningful souvenir from your trip.

12. Busan Democracy Park

Busan Democracy Park was built to commemorate the democracy movement in South Korea and to honor the citizens of Busan who risked their lives fighting for democracy.
Inside the park, the Democratic Uprising Memorial Hall exhibits historical photographs, Molotov cocktails, tear gas canisters, and other artifacts used during the protests, giving visitors a vivid glimpse into the struggles of that time.
However, Democracy Park is not only a place of historical learning but also a relaxing retreat for Busan citizens. The park features lush greenery and an observation deck, making it an excellent spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful walk.

13. Busan Fishing Village Folk Museum

The Busan Fishing Village Folk Museum opened in 2007 as a branch of the Busan Marine Natural History Museum. The museum's theme is "A Journey Through Fishing Village Culture from Rivers to the Sea." It features numerous exhibits and specimens related to the birds and fish of the Nakdong River, which flows through Busan and Daegu.
In the Fishing Village Folklore Room, visitors can learn about the lives and fishing practices of ancestors through dioramas and models. Because of its educational value, many schoolchildren visit on field trips and extracurricular activities.
Understanding Busan's history will surely make your tour more enjoyable, and the knowledge you gain here will become a memorable souvenir of your trip!

14. Eulsukdo

Eulsukdo Island (Ulsukto or Ulsut) is a scenic spot that is very close to Busan city and easily accessible. This island, rich in nature with lush aquatic plants, is known worldwide as a place where migratory birds come to live. Eulsukdo Island was developed by the Busan government in the 1980s, but the plan was canceled due to the destruction of the ecosystem and the sharp decline in the number of migratory birds. Currently, the government is working to protect this "paradise for migratory birds" by designating the area as a core conservation area.

Eulsukdo Island has a park with a well-maintained promenade, so it is recommended for strolling. It is also nice to bring a lunch box and enjoy a picnic in the square. Why not relax and listen to the chirping of birds on Eulsukdo Island, where you can observe a variety of birds all year round?

15. Busan Trickeye Museum

Busan Trick Eye Museum is the only place in Busan where you can enjoy trick art. There are a whopping 800,000 pieces on display. You can take interesting photos that will be popular on social media, such as photos that make you look like you're floating in the air, underwater, or tiny. It's

far from the typical Busan tourist spot, but it's nice to take a break from it every once in a while. There are also workshops in the museum where you can experience making candles and dolls. The Busan Trick Eye Museum is fun for couples and families, so be sure to visit.

16. Oryukdo Skywalk

Oryukdo Islands were named after the fact that they look like five or six islands depending on the tide. Why not try a unique aerial walk on Oryukdo Islands, one of Busan's most popular tourist attractions? The Oryukdo Skywalk (glass observatory), which opened in 2013, gives you the feeling of walking on the sea.

From the glass walkway built on a 37m high cliff, you can see the sea directly below, and on a clear day, you can even see as far away as Tsushima Island in Japan. Even if you're not good with heights, give it a try. The view you see at the end is sure to be special. The Oryukdo

Skywalk is equipped with an automatic camera, so you can take photos with the blue sea in the background. This is a great service for those who don't have a selfie device. If you want to take a group photo as a memento of your trip to Oryukdo Islands, this is the place to go!

17. Bosu-dong Book Alley

Bosu-dong Book Alley is a famous street filled with bookstores, selling a vast collection of books. It originated after the war when people began selling books in street stalls to make a living.

During World War II, many books were left behind by the Japanese, and during the Korean War, refugees from the North brought rare and valuable books. As demand grew, the street eventually developed into a well-known book alley.

While it originally sold only second-hand books, many stores now offer new books at affordable prices. Visitors can find out-of-print magazines, children's picture books, and Korean translations of Japanese manga, making it a hidden gem for book lovers.

18. Gwangandaegyo Bridge

Gwangandaegyo Bridge, also known as "Diamond Bridge," is one of Busan’s most famous nightscape spots. Taking around eight years to complete, this 7.4 km-long bridge is the largest sea bridge in South Korea.

Driving across the bridge is a great experience, but for the best view, it's recommended to admire it from Gwangalli Beach. The bridge is illuminated in various colors throughout the night, creating a magical and breathtaking atmosphere.

Along the beach, you’ll find trendy cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner on a terrace while enjoying the night view. It's an ideal place for a date!

19. Busan Cinema Center

The Busan Cinema Center was built as the official venue for the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). It spans an area 2.6 times the size of a soccer field, making it an architectural masterpiece. Its massive roof structure is stunning, and at night, it is illuminated with 42,000 LED lights, creating a magical and breathtaking atmosphere. Many visitors come just to witness this spectacular light display.

Even outside the BIFF festival period, the center hosts regular movie screenings and special events. If you're lucky, you may get to experience a movie with state-of-the-art sound systems. Located near Shinsegae Centum City, one of Haeundae’s most popular shopping spots, it’s a great place to visit during your sightseeing trip.

20. Gwangbok-ro Culture and Fashion Street

Gwangbok-ro is a popular gathering spot for young people in Busan, offering the latest fashion trends, cosmetics, and delicious street food. It is often referred to as "Busan’s Myeongdong" due to its lively atmosphere, similar to Seoul’s famous shopping district. If you are visiting Busan with limited time, this is a great spot to explore.

From high-end brands to affordable fashion, there’s a wide variety of shopping options, making it easy to find what you're looking for. It is also conveniently located near Yongdusan Park, Gukje Market, and Jagalchi Market, making it an ideal place for a sightseeing and shopping tour.

21. Beomeosa Temple Stay

Beomeosa Temple, one of the three great temples of Gyeongsang Province, is located at the foot of Geumjeongsan Mountain. While it is a well-known tourist attraction, it is also famous for its Temple Stay program, which attracts many foreign visitors due to its diverse offerings.
Participants can choose from programs that allow them to experience the daily life of monks, engage in hiking on Geumjeongsan, or simply enjoy a relaxing retreat. For beginners, the Resting Program is highly recommended—it includes learning basic temple etiquette, Zen meditation, tea time with monks, and peaceful walks.

Although similar experiences can be found in Japan, doing a Temple Stay in a foreign country offers a unique and memorable experience. By the end of the one-night, two-day retreat, you may find yourself completely immersed in the temple lifestyle.

22. Shinsegae Centum City

Since its grand opening in 2009, Shinsegae Centum City has continuously evolved, always offering something new. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest department store, it is a one-stop destination for shopping, entertainment, sports, and dining—you can find almost everything here!

With its convenient location near the station and extensive facilities, it is a perfect indoor attraction for rainy days. While the spa is a well-known highlight, another relaxation spot is the Sky Park on the rooftop. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Haeundae, along with fountains, a plaza, and even a merry-go-round.

For those visiting with children, the department store offers baby care rooms, storage lockers, and stroller rentals, making it a family-friendly destination.

23. Seven Luck Casino Busan Lotte Branch

Located on the third floor of the Busan Lotte Hotel, Seven Luck Casino is an exclusive casino for foreigners. The atmosphere is diverse and international, with visitors from different countries speaking various languages, creating a unique and exciting environment.
Even if you're new to casinos, you can visit just to observe—there’s no obligation to play. If you want to experience the thrill of gambling without spending money, simply enjoy watching others as if you were betting yourself. Since it is smaller and less extravagant, it is perfect for first-time casino-goers.

24. Gwangbok-dong Gourmet Alley

For an unforgettable food trip in Busan, head to Gwangbok-dong Gourmet Alley! This lively street is filled with delicious Korean street food, including gimbap (seaweed rolls), jeon (Korean pancakes), Korean-style oden, guksu (noodles), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
The food here is affordable, making it perfect for those who want to try a little bit of everything. One of the most popular dishes is Chungmu Gimbap, a simple seaweed roll made only with rice and seaweed. The nutty aroma of sesame oil and the light saltiness make it an addictive local favorite.
For a taste of authentic Busan home-style cooking, don’t miss Gwangbok-dong Gourmet Alley! The friendly street vendors will welcome you warmly, so be sure to enjoy not just the food, but also the fun conversations!

◎ Summary

Busan is a city with many different faces. You can shop and enjoy spa treatments in the city, or relax in nature for a peaceful getaway—there’s so much to experience in just one place. It is a city where you can enjoy both the glamorous urban atmosphere and the charm of the countryside, making it easy to see why foreign tourists love visiting Busan.
Additionally, you can travel to Busan not only by plane but also by ferry from Japan. A leisurely sea voyage can be a wonderful experience. For ferry ticket reservations, please check the related links below.
There are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Busan! Why not take a trip to uncover its secret charms?

◆ Ferry Travel to Busan Port!

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24 Recommended Tourist Spots in Busan, South Korea! Introducing Their Charms