Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Sanctuary

The Lower Nakdonggang River Seasonal Bird Migration Site was designated as a natural monument on July 13, 1966, and it has a large river-mouth, sand dunes, delta, Ilungdo Island, Eulsukdo Island and other islands.  The snipes and waterfowls stop by when they pass Korea during the fall and spring, and the ducks and geese find their way here in the winter.  This area, where the Nakdonggang River and the South Sea meet, has over 150 species of birds, which visit between October and March.  You're most likely to see swans, and even raptorial species like eagles and white-tailed eagles.  It is a large area with thick groves of reeds, which make it hard to approach by land.  In order to watch migratory birds, you should take a boat from Myeongji-dong harbor and get a local guide to help you.  The ideal time for bird watching is between 9am and 4pm.
Eulsukdo Island is one of the places you absolutely cannot miss.  It is a delta island, and is well known as a paradise for over a hundred thousand birds.  It is an amazing sight to see some ultra-rare species of birds like the white-naped cranes, the blackfaced spoonbills, and the white-tailed eagles, as they arrive and spend the winter. 

Jagalchi Market

The Jagalchi Market is Korea's largest seafood market.  After the Korean War the market solidified itself as a fish market.  Most of the people who sell fish are women, so the women who sell here are called 'Jagalchi Ajumma', 'ajumma' meaning middle-aged or married women.

This market represents Busan and is famous throughout the country.  If you visit you can eat fresh raw fish right at the market.  Even these days you can see women selling mackerel, sea squirts (ascidians) and whale meat on wooden board boxes along the road.

Every year in October the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival is held, and it is easy to visit because of the convenient transportation of the subway.  The Jagalchi Market is where you can see the lifestyle of the indigenous Busan natives.

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is probably the most famous  beach in the country.  The name "Haeundae" was named by scholar Choi Chi-Won (857~?) of the Silla Dynasty (BC57~AD 935).  When he was walking past Dongbaekdo Island, he was fascinated by it and left carved words "Hae Un Dae" on a Stone Wall on Dongbaekdo Island.  Haeundae is 1.5km long, 30~50m wide, with an area of 58,400㎡.  The white sand is rough and easily sticks to your skin.  The sand of this beach is composed of sands that come from Chuncheon Stream and shells that have disintegrated naturally by the wind over a long time. Haeundae Beach is also famous for the various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year.  At Haeundae Beach there is a Folk Square where you can enjoy traditional games such as Neoldduigi (seesaw jumping), Korean wrestling, Tuho(arrow throwing), tug-of-War and yutnori.  There is also the Beach Culture Center and the Beach Library.  Numerous people visit every year from June to August.

Beomeosa Temple

Beomeosa Temple is located at the edge of a famous mountain in Busan, Mt.Geumjeongsan.  About 1,300 years ago it was constructed by monk Ui Sang in the 18th year (678) of King Munmu (reign 661~681) of the Silla Kingdom (the kingdom mainly occupied the Gyeongsang-do Province region in 678A.D.).  In the geography book 'Donggukyeojiseungram' the origin of Beomeosa Temple is written as follows:  
"There is a well on the top of Mt. Geumjeongsan and the water of that well is gold. The golden fish in the well rode the colorful clouds and came down from the sky.  This is why the mountain is named Geumsaem (gold well) and the temple is named 'fish from heaven'."

The original Beomeosa Temple building was lost during Imjinwaeran Invasion (Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592) but was renovated in 1713, which remains as it now is.  Daeungjeon is one of the most delicate and luxurious architectures of the Joseon Dynasty (1392~1910).  There is Iljumun, the three-story pagoda with four pillars, built in the 9th century, and seven royal palace wings, pavilions, three gates, and eleven hermitages. Designated as a natural monument, the wisteria woods and valleys are most beautiful in May.

Taejongdae Park

Designated as a Busan monument, along with Oryukdo Island, Taejongdae  represents Busan, and is especially famous for its rock beach.  Featuring its highest peak at 250 meters, there are forests of pine trees and other 200 varieties of trees.  Taejongdae was named after the 29th king of Silla Dynasty BC57~AD 935), King TaeJong Mu-Yeol (604~661).  King Tae-jong had traveled to many places but this was the place he enjoyed shooting arrows.  Under the lighthouse of this resort is a rock called Sinseon Rock, named after the myth that gods and goddesses came down here to relax.  At this rock is a figure called Mangbuseok, named after the story of a woman who waited for her husband who had been taken to Japan.  Taejongdae is also famous for the ritual of praying for rain, performed when there are droughts, and rain on the 10th of lunar May is called the 'Taejong Rain'.  On days with clear skies you can see Japan’s Daema Island from the observatory.

Dalmaji Hill

Dalmaji Hill is a small walkway on the corner to Songjeong Beach.  Dalmaji Hill is a trail with woods of cherry blossoms and pine trees, which is located past Haeundae Beach, on the slope of Mt.Wausan. The landscape, with the blue sea, sandy seashore, and pine trees, is beautiful enough to be the representative place of this area for a long time to come.
This walk became famous as a relaxing place in the summer, ever since Haeundae Beach opened in 1965. On days with clear skies you can see Japan's Daema Island from the observatory.  There is a spa and other facilities nearby, making it a great place to visit for people who want to relax and enjoy their free time, not only in the summer, but throughout the year.   The Dalmaji Hill has 8km driving course and at the peak of Mt.Wau is a Dalmaji hill.  On the top of the Hill is a clock tower, representing the marine city Busan, going forth and reaching out to the world.

Songjeong Beach

Songjeong Beach has good quality sand and shallow water, which makes it an ideal beach for families to swim together.  The white sandy beach stretches 1.2 km, and covers an area of 62,150 square meters.  It can carry about 14,000 people on the beach.  The sand is a mixture of debris from Songjeong River, and the seashell grains that form naturally over a long time, lays beautifully like tiny marbles on the beach.  The beach also has the unique feel of the southern region, making the beach experience all that much more fun.  At the entrance of the beach is the Jukdo, where thick evergreen groves contain relaxing facilities inside.  At the northeast of the beach, you can enjoy fishing as well.  There is also a dock where you can use motorboats and get on cruises in the summer. An Especially famous part of the Songjeong Beach is the Songiljeong Pavilion, from where you can get a truly lovely view of the sunrise and moonrise.
Because this beach is a bit off the Busan area, it is quite unlike many of the other beaches in Busan.  Every year the Harvest Full-Moon Seaweed Festival and the Songjeong Beach Festival are held here, and many vacationers come to enjoy the celebrations.

Nampo-dong Street

The theater district of Busan is jam packed with movie theaters and is host to the Busan International Film Festival.  To commemorate the PIFF (Pusan International Film Festival) Plaza, every year the winners of the festival contribute copper plates imprinted with their hand and foot prints. These copper plates stretch far across the plaza.  The streets are especially crowded in October, when the films are being screened for the movie festival at local theaters.  It is during this time that you can also find various events revolving around the promotion of the movies featured at the festival. In the vicinity of Nampo-dong Street you can find Jagalchi Fish Market and Choryang Arcade for Foreigners.  This well sought after area is flourishing with not only theaters, but many kinds of shops and eateries as well.  

Busan Aquarium

The Busan Aquarium contains over 35,000 kinds of fish, algae, reptiles, and amphibians.  This state-of-the-art facility is one of Korea’s top aquariums.  The Busan Aquarium covers an area of 36,000 m2 and has 3 underground levels as well as outdoor park area.  In the first underground level you can find a simulator, souvenir shop, and several places to eat, while in underground levels 2 and 3 you can find various kinds of aquariums.  The third underground level boasts an 80m main tank (seabed) tunnel.  One feels like they are walking along the ocean floor as they pass through this tunnel with various species of fish and sharks swimming above head.   This is one of the most popular areas of the aquarium and guarantees to be a special experience.  The simulator will stretch your imagination and give you the tingling feeling of experiencing life on the ocean floor.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated on the coast of the north-eastern portion of Busan.  This superb find of a tourist spot and temple offers visitors the rare find of a temple along the shore line.  Most temples in Korea are located in the mountains.  Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was first built in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty.  During the reign of Uwang, the great Buddhist teacher known as Naong established this temple beside the sea.  Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha), Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary, Yongwangdang Shrine, Gulbeop Buddhist Sanctum (enclosed in a cave), and a three-story pagoda with 4 lions can all be seen looking out over the ocean.


The main sanctuary of the temple was reconstructed in 1970 with careful attention paid to the colors that were traditionally used in such structures. On the right-hand side, inside the a cave, is a uniquely designed Buddhist sanctum, while situated just in front of the main sanctuary is a three-story pagoda with 4 lions.  The 4 lions are symbolizing joy anger, sadness, and happiness. Other special sites at the temple are the 108 stairs and stone lanterns lining the rocky landscape.  After going down the 108 steps, one will be delighted with the beauty of the temple.  Midway down the 108 steps one can stop and enjoy the calming sounds of the waves as well view the majestic sunrise.  Many people often come to this spot on New Year's Day to make a wish for the new year as they watch the sun come up.  April is an especially beautiful time of year with cherry blossoms in full bloom.  The birth of Buddha is also celebrated in April (following the lunar calendar) and offers a spectacular night view as the temple area is aglow with electrically lit lanterns.

Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach is 1.4km long, 64m wide, and is famous for its fine sand. This area has been conducted a water cleaning program, and as a result, the water of the beach is very clean. As the water is very clean, the area is also busy with fishermen. You can prepare raw fish dishes on the spot, right after you have caught a fish, and there is also the Olympic Yacht Rental where you can rent yachts.  On the beach there is an outer concert stage where the Busan Ocean Festival and other various events are held. You can also enjoy water-skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing, and other exciting water sports. The area has a cultural center, a museum, theaters for plays and movies, an art gallery, TV station, and famous Korean and non-Korean fashion brand name shops. It is a popular gathering place for young people in their 20s and 30s.

Dongbaekdo Island

There are many islands named Dongbaekdo Island in the South Sea where dongbaek trees thrive. Among them, the Dongbaekdo Island in Busan used to be an island, but is now part of the mainland. Dongbaekdo Island is a very small, and many dongbaek trees and evergreens thrive there. At the top of the island, there is a statue and a monument of Choe Chi-Won, a scholar and writer during the Silla Dynasty (BC 59 ~ AD 932). The Busan Tourism Organization has declared Dongbaekdo Island Tourist Site No.46. The island also has Dongbaek Park and a 2.5 m high statue of a mermaid near the beach which many tourists can easily visit on their way to the beach.

Yongdusan Park

Yongdusan park, which harmonizes Busan Tower and 70 different species of trees, is a favorite rest place of the citizens of Busan. It is called Yongdusan because the shape of the mountain looks like the head of a dragon that climbs to land from sea.
Yongdusan park is an area of about 69,000 ㎡.  
There are Coffee shops here and Busan Aquarium. The pride of Yongdusan Park is a night view of Busan at the 120m-height Busan Tower.
And there are the statue of General  Lee Sunsin who was a great commander in Joseon Dynasty period(1392-1910) and 4.19 Revolution monument(student's anti government movement).

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery and Peace Park

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery and Peace Park honors UN soldiers from 16 countries that were killed in battle during the Korean War from 1950-1953.  This serene park spreads across a grassy plain area of 135,000 m2.  Some of the sites and memorials include: Memorial Service Hall, Memorabilia Hall, 2 Turkish Monuments, Greek Monument, Australian Monument, British Common Wealth Monument and 2 ponds.  The Memorial Service Hall and the Memorabilia Hall were constructed in 1964 and 1968 respectively.   The citizens of Busan dedicated the Main Gate in 1966.  There are many annual events held here, some of the key events include:  April’s Tributary Ceremony of the Veterans of the Korean War, May’s American Memorial Day, June’s Korean Memorial Day, and October’s UN Ceremony Day.

Oryukdo Islets

Oryukdo Island is attached to the southern part of Busan, and depending on the day and the tide, may appear to be five islands or six islands, hence the name. Designated a Monument of Busan, Oryukdo Island is a rock island that can be said to be made purely of stones.  Of all the five islands branching out from the mainland, all of them, except the one with the lighthouse, are uninhabited.  It is composed of Usakdo Island, Surido Island, Gonggotdo Island, Guldo Island and Deungdaedo (Lighthouse) Island, but because the lower part of Usakdo are divided into two segments that appear as two islands, sometimes Usakdo Island is known as Bangpaedo Island and Sol Island as well, depending on the level of the water.  The name of the Usakdo Island comes from this phenomenon as well. Because many ships that come to Busan pass by Oryukdo Island, it is a symbol of Busan as well.

Paradise Hotel Casino

Paradise Hotel is located in the middle of Busan’s Haeundae beach.  It is a first class hotel, composed of twin towers, the main building and a new addition.  It is the best facilitated hotel in Haeundae area, with its 521 rooms, hot springs inside and outside the building, and a foreigners only casino. The casino provides games such as Black Jack, Baccarat, Roulette, Slot Machines among others.

Geumjeongsanseong Fortress

Geumjeong Fortress is located on the peak of Mt. Geumjeongsan (801.5m) in Busan. Its original name was Dongrae Mountain Fortress, but it was changed because of its location.  
Its length is 17,377m, and 1.5m~3m high; it is the largest fortress in Korea.  But now there is only a 4 km section remaining from the original. The exact time of the fortification is not recorded, but in reference to the location and size, it is presumed to be built in the Three Kingdoms Era (when Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, the three dynasties, were fighting against each other). The present fortress was built in 1703, during the reign of Suk-Jong.  It was built after Imjin Waeran (Japanese Invasion of Korea from 1592~1598) to prepare for any further invasions from Japan.  It was first built with stones and was renovated in 1707.  During the dark years under Japanese sovereignty it was damaged and devastated.  In 1971, it was designated as private property; the West, East and South Gates have been reintegrated, and it is still undergoing the restoration process.  On the fortress barbican there is Munru (watch tower). There is another watch tower called Mangru to watch for enemies.  Different from other mountains, it is easy to find spring water here, and because it is a granite area, you can easily see rock caves and small and big rock peaks at Mt. Geumjeongsan.

Haeundae Cruise Boat

This enchanting boat trip starts off at Haeundae’s Mipo Ferry Terminal and heads towards Oryuk-do Islets and the Igidae area, then returning back to Mipo.  The Oryuk-do Islets are made up of 6 small islands, of which 5 are visible from shore.  They are all uninhabited.  The shores of Igidae are composed of breathtaking views of fantastically-shaped cliffs.  This 1-hour boat trip offers great views of Busan Harbor.  

Gonpo Cruise Boat

Gonpo Cruise Boat takes you around the picturesque area of Taejongdae and loops around Achi Island.  Achi Island is well known for its abundance of Camellia trees and is sometimes referred to as Camellia Island.  The Korea National Maritime University was established here in 1974.  This 40-minute cruise guarantees magnificent views for all.

Amnam Park

The magnificent cliffs and tree-lined seaside views of Amnam Park bring the harmony of the bluish-green waters and the forested landscape together.   Made into a protected area, entrance was not permitted until its opening to the public in 1996, when visitors could first experience the untouched landscape.  In the park one can fish, visit an observatory, and enjoy the walking path and elevated bridge.  The abundance of pine trees along the walking path makes for a pleasant stroll; going up to the observatory, this well-forested area offers great views.  If it is fishing that you want, here you can fish on the ocean as well as off the fantastically shaped rocks.  There is a famous road from Songdo Beach to Amnam Park that is popular for leisurely drives.  This drive is about 5 minutes on foot, but for those who want to walk it’s about 20 minutes. 

Busan China Town

China Town, which is located across the street from Busan Station, is also known as Shanghai Street. In 1884, Busan established ties with Shanghai in China and developed a Chinese community by building a Chinese school, residents and a consulate in the area. In this Chinese-style street you can see the Shanghai Gate established by both Busan City and Shanghai City. Mainly packed with many Chinese restaurants, China Town attracts Korean, Chinese as well as many foreign tourists.

Haeundae Shooting Range

Haeundae Rifle Range possesses the finest shooting facilities and 1 on 1 expert lesson is possible. 6 persons shooting at the same time is possible as well and Haeundae maintains 30 different kinds of guns.
- Shooting area => 6 in total / 6 persons can shoot simultaneously
– Game hours => Takes about 15 minutes per game
- Lounge (free cafeteria) => Free drinks served
– Parking lot (no limits)

Busan Yachting Center

Used during the 86 Asian Games and the 88 Seoul Olympics, Busan Yachting Center is an internationally acclaimed with more than 1,300 yachts and international facilities. Numerous yacht races are held here. It also has various facilities in commemoration of the Olympics, such as Sculpture Park, Recreation Park, Strolling Path and some cafeterias. In the vicinity are leisure water sport training schools such as a yacht school, wind surfing school, and scuba diving school.  There is also a big yacht where you can enjoy the East Sea. The surrounding scenery is absolutely beautiful with the open ocean. This center also possesses squares and monuments. The walls have been torn dow completely in February 2002 to combine the harmony of the ocean and the forest and it is now open 24 hours free of charge for citizens. Thus, it has received many compliments as well as love from the people.

Located in Haeundae, many other tourist sites are also available such as, Dalmaji Road, Haeundae Beach, Dongbaek Island, Sonjeong Beach and gwangalli Beach.

Kyungsung University

Kyungsung University looks out onto the beautiful Gwangalli Beach in Busan. Most of the campus is located at the bottom of Hwangnyeongsan Mountain.  Subway line 2, Gyeongseong University Station, is located right next to the main gate of the University, giving students easy access.  This area is full of cultural hotspots, including cultural centers, museums, broadcasting stations, BEXCO (Busan Exhibit and Convention Center), and so forth.  The university boasts one of the most beautiful campuses in Korea.

Dadaepo Beach

Dadaepo Beach is located at the estuary of the Nakdonggang River just 8km away from Busan’s downtown. Here you can see where the river joins the sea. The beach has 0.9km long and 100m wide shoreline.

This beach is the perfect place for family vacationing because the depth of water is low (just around 1.5m) which is quite safe for kids. People can pick up small seashells and crabs at Dadaepo Beach as well.

There is also the Busan International Rock Festival, which is held every August here.  Visitors can enjoy listening to rock music in the hot summer nights. There are also a variety of facilities such as camping sites so you can enjoy the beautiful sea to the fullest.