About Busan
Busan is the second largest city in Korea and the fifth largest port city in the world. Also, Busan is the first Best Destination in Asia selected by Lonely Planet in 2018. It is located 400 km away from Seoul. The city’s natural endowments and rich history have resulted in Busan’s increasing reputation as a world class city for tourism and culture, and it is also becoming renowned for international conventions. Busan initiated the first international film festival (BIFF) in Korea in 1996 and has grown to be a major international event. Also, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting was held in Busan, where the 21 summit leaders met from 18 to 19 November 2005. Nurimaru APEC House has become one of Busan’s representative attractions since then and is very popular among domestic and international tourists.
Taejongdae Park’s 100 years of history
This place allows you to walk along the green forest path and view the blue ocean simultaneously. The multicolored rocky coast boasts its beauty formed by years of crashing waves. We’re talking about Taejongdae Park at the southern end of Yeongdo, Busan. Taejongdae was named after King Taejong Muyeol of Silla, who used to stop by the region and practice archery as he was mesmerized by the beauty of the landscape. Taejongdae Park, where unique rocks are formed and visitors are greeted by the dense forest surrounded by the deep blue ocean, is a leading travel destination in Korea.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Gijang
The Temple received its name from a dream of Buddhist Monk Jeongam whom Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva ascended on the back of a dragon by the coast. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is hung over the edge of the land, where the sea meets the mountain like a piece of painting. Known as the most beautiful temple in Korea, the whole interior becomes a photo zone with an oceanic view. If you want to photograph the breathtaking view of the ocean, climb up the stairs next to the Daeungjeon Hall. Meet the benevolent Seaside Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and take memorable photographs where the blue sea becomes yours below your feet.
Gamcheon Culture Village, the Machu Picchu of Korea
While the village’s beautiful landscape gave it the nickname of the Machu Picchu of Korea, the town was a part of the painful history of Busan. Refugees settled in Gamcheon Village during the Korean War and cultivated the mountainous region to make a living. In 2009, students, artists, and residents decorated the village as a part of the Village Art Project, and the town grew into a leading tourist attraction of Busan.
Oryukdo Islets: Stories of the sea
Oryukdo Islets, which is well-known as one of the most beautiful islands in Busan, refers to a group of rocky islands off Yongho-dong, Nam-gu, Busan. It has been designated as Busan National Geopark in recognition of its geological value: rock formed through volcanic activities 80 million years ago. In addition, it is a marine sanctuary, where protected marine creatures live, and also state-designated cultural heritage.
<Sources from Korea Tourism Organization and Busan Tourism Organization>
