I admit I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I decided to visit Busan during the winter season. But I knew I was in for a treat as soon as I arrived. The city’s towering architectures were simply breathtaking, and the picturesque landscapes left me feeling awestruck.
I found myself wandering around the trendy shopping areas, mesmerized by the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. And as I made my way to the serene beaches, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over me.
Despite the chilly winds, Busan had a warmth to it that I couldn’t quite explain – and it was the perfect escape from the freezing weather in Seoul. I can only imagine how magical it must be during the summer, but even in the winter, Busan left me wanting more.
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Travelling to Beautiful Busan in South Korea
Explore Busan, the stunning coastal city in South Korea. Busan has something for everyone, from its vibrant nightlife to dazzling temples and breathtaking beaches! Come experience a culture like no other as you make memories travelling to this majestic destination.
Getting to beautiful Busan
My recent trip to Busan was a breeze thanks to the easy transportation options available. While a domestic flight was an option, my friends and I decided to opt for the KTX speed train from Seoul. The three-hour journey flew by as we gazed out at the scenic countryside of Korea from our clean and comfortable seats. Plus, the convenience of purchasing snacks from the cart made the trip even more enjoyable.
Whether travelling within South Korea or flying in from around the world, accessing Busan is a hassle-free experience with the Gimhae International Airport just minutes away. For those up for an adventure, renting a car or catching a bus are also great options. Regardless of how you get there, Busan is well worth the journey.
KTX Train Price: Economy class 53000W – $60 one way First Class 74600W – AUD 85 one way.
Haeundae Beach
As someone who visited Busan during winter, I can attest that Haeundae Beach is still a must-see destination. While the crowds may not be as large, there is no shortage of things to do or sights to behold. With the beach practically all to myself, I enjoyed leisurely walks and even caught a nightly entertainment show.
But what truly captured my heart were the local restaurants – I couldn’t get enough of the irresistible Korean BBQ joint that became my go-to spot for meals, even on Christmas Day. If you’re a foodie like me or love experiencing beautiful new places, Haeundae Beach is the spot to check out.
As I stepped out into the streets of Busan on my first Christmas away from Australia, I was quickly hit with a culture shock. Everything was open, bustling with people and noise. Back at home, we shut down for the holidays, everything quiet as people retreated into their homes.
But Busan, like Seoul, is a city that never sleeps. We stayed in Haeundae at an affordable little motel called On Motel. While space was a bit of a squeeze for two adults and two kids, the convenience and cleanliness made up for it. If you’re on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with the ON Motel. As we wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of a busy Christmas day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this new experience.
Shinsegae Centum City
I’ve visited many department stores, but none like the Shinsegae Centum City. As soon as I stepped off the train and walked through the front doors, I was blown away by the stunning food court. I couldn’t resist trying all the fantastic options, from fast food to local cuisine to freshly baked pastries.
Of course, I quickly realized that prices were steep, but it was all worth it. And the shopping experience was just getting started! With nine floors dedicated to everything from men’s and women’s clothing to a kid’s section, Shinsegae had me covered. They even have a golf range, which made my husband’s day. All in all, I’ve never seen a department store quite like Shinsegae and can’t wait to go back.
Get there: Catch a train on Subway Line 2 and get to Centum City.
Jagalchi Fish Market
I may not be a huge seafood fan, but visiting the Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan was an eye-opening experience. The colourful markets and side streets were an adventure in themselves, but the fresh seafood and unusual ocean creatures genuinely amazed me.
The lively and bustling atmosphere captured my attention from start to finish. Lobsters were crawling around in their tanks and even lived octopuses that some brave visitors were devouring. Walking around, I couldn’t help but dodge the motorbikes scooting around without a care.
Even though I didn’t try the live octopus, I highly recommend visiting Jagalchi to anyone who wants to witness the diverse variety of seafood and marine life that exists in this world.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
I can’t help but feel excited as I recount my experience visiting the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan. I had heard from locals that this was the best place to go, and boy were they right! The temple was breathtakingly beautiful, with a perfect blend of modern and traditional architecture.
The best part? It’s on the coast, with waves crashing against the rocks below. The sound of the waves provided a sense of tranquillity that instantly put me at ease. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a history buff or a photographer, this temple has something to offer everyone. Ensure this is on your list of things to do in Busan – you won’t regret it!
. Getting there: Catch a train to Haeundae Station on subway line 2; from there, the 181 bus will take you to Haedong Yonggungsa.
Conclusion of beautiful Busan
As I bid farewell to Busan, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for this beautiful city. From the stunning beaches to the mesmerizing temples, Busan has exceeded all my expectations. I’ve explored the bustling markets and indulged in the local cuisine, witnessed the breathtaking sunrise at Haeundae Beach and soaked in the therapeutic hot springs.
As the night set in, the city came alive with an array of activities, and I found myself immersed in the buzzing nightlife of Busan. As I reminisce about my time here, I highly recommend adding Busan to your travel itinerary. Trust me; it’ll be worth it.
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