Busan
Discovery tour through South Korea's largest port city
Categories: Busan South Korea
Scenically Busan is characterized by mountains, beaches and thermal springs. The country's second largest city in the southeast of the Korean Peninsula lies at the mouth of the Nakdonggang. Around 4.5 million people live along the numerous bays on the Sea of Japan. The university city has one of the largest container ports in the world. In 1988 the sailing competitions of the Olympic Summer Games were held in Busan.
© sepavone / Depositphotos
According to the Guinness Book of Records, the Shinsegae Centrum City of Busan is considered the largest department store in the world. Between modern designer cafés and traditional fish markets, the financial metropolis presents itself with serenity. When visiting the Jagalchi fish market, travellers experience the country's largest selection of fish.
Even at the stalls outside the building there is an unbelievable variety of seafood to marvel at.
Famous for its white sand, Gwangalli Beach offers a fantastic view of the Busan skyline. Here, the Gwangandaegyo Bridge stretches for 7.4 kilometers. This important traffic artery is the second longest sea bridge in Korea. In the evening its light shines in a different colour depending on the season and day of the week.
The Haeundae Beach is mainly frequented by tourists from Korea and Asia. Therefore Busan is called the summer capital of the country. Here locals wait together for the sunrise on New Year's Day. Every year the Busan International Fireworks Festival takes place on the beach. The largest aquarium of South Korea was built directly at the sea. Dongbaekseom Island at the western end of the coast is a popular fishing area.
The Orudo Islands in the east are considered a landmark and tourist magnet.
The best view of Busan is from Geumjeongsan Mountain. On Buddha's birthday, the temple Beomeo, decorated with lanterns, shows its charming side. The temple Seokbul is easily accessible by cable car. A visit on the mountain can be combined with a hike to Geumjeong Fort. It is the largest fortress in Korea. The Dognae Thermal Bath is very close by.
It was built in the 17th century. Since then, the hot springs have been one of the most famous bathing places in Asia. The Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park reaches a height of 120 meters. High-speed elevators go to the viewing platform with café. Once at the top, the visitor has a unique view of the harbour. The bell pavilion and flower clock are very popular in the 69,000 square meter park area. 
© sepavone / Depositphotos
The Film Museum offers more culture. The Busan International Film Festival is known far beyond the country's borders.
In the district Sahagu it is worth a stroll through the Gamcheon Cultural Village of Busan. Winding alleys, colourful houses and steep stairs give the artists' village the nickname "Koreas Santorini". The extraordinary quarter has been honoured with a city award.
