Things to do in Busan

Why go to Busan

• Jagalchi Fish Market

  Korea's largest seafood market, alive with haenyeo divers and tanks of still-wriggling creatures you can buy and eat on the spot

• Gamcheon Culture Village

  A hillside maze of candy-colored houses, street murals, and quirky sculptures dubbed the 'Santorini of Korea'

• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

  A breathtaking Buddhist temple perched directly on seaside cliffs, with waves crashing below stone dragons

• Haeundae Beach

  Korea's most famous beach strip backed by glittering skyscrapers, buzzing day and night with markets and nightlife

• Beomeosa Temple & Mountain Hike

  A serene 8th-century temple tucked into the forested slopes of Geumjeongsan, with rewarding ridge trails above

Good to know in Busan

• Busan's metro and city buses are cheap (under $1.50 per ride) and cover nearly every attraction; buy a rechargeable T-money card at any convenience store for small discounts and faster boarding.
• Tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude, at restaurants, cafés, and taxis, simply pay the listed price and pocket your change.
• Tap water is technically safe but locals rarely drink it; filtered water is provided free at most restaurants and convenience store hot/cold dispensers are everywhere for under $0.50.
• Haedong Yonggungsa and Beomeosa Temple have no admission fee; Gamcheon Culture Village charges a nominal ~$1 stamp-card fee refundable as a shop voucher, and national maritime museums offer free entry on the last Wednesday of each month.

Trip essentials