Why Visit Busan? Complete Guide to Korea's Rising Star
Busan: The Rising Star of Korean Travel
Trip.com ranked it as the #2 fastest-rising destination in the world, and National Geographic included Busan in "South Korea: Why You Should Visit in 2026." We're talking about Busan.
Over the past two to three years, Busan has become Korea's hottest travel destination. With seven beaches, ten mountains, and two major rivers, this city already has everything it takes to be a world-class tourism hub. Since the opening of the Haeundae Beach Train, various tourist attractions have come alive, drawing not just domestic travelers but international visitors in droves.
So where are Busan's hottest spots right now? Today, I'm taking you to two must-visit places: Haeundae and Gamcheon Culture Village.
Haeundae: Where Every Busan Story Begins
Every story in Busan starts with the ocean. It's been the backdrop for famous Korean films, and at the heart of it all is Haeundae Beach. Here, you'll find a wide sandy beach alongside endless things to see, do, and eat.
So where should you start?
Walk Barefoot on the Sand
Barefoot walking—or "earthing"—is trending for its health benefits, and there's no better place to do it than on a beach. Feel the cool ocean breeze, waves lapping at your knees, watch children playing in the sand and couples snapping photos. It's pure joy.
Marine City: Beachside Cafés and Global Flavors
Right next to the beach is Marine City, a waterfront district where you can enjoy cuisine from around the world or relax at an outdoor café with a cup of coffee.
Dongbaek Island: A Hidden Gem
The red blooms are breathtaking. As you stroll leisurely, you'll reach a wooden deck trail along the coastline that reveals another layer of charm. You might break a light sweat, but your mind will feel freer than ever.
The Haeundae Beach Train
This is Haeundae's newest hot attraction—a train running along the beach!
There are two options: the Sky Capsule(private capsules for 2-4 people) and the Beach Train(seats facing the ocean for larger groups). These trains follow old commuter rail lines that were once used for daily transportation but were suspended and then revived for tourism. Even back then, watching the ocean while the train hugged cliffsides was an incredible experience.
The Sky Capsule is so popular you need to book in advance. It offers a completely new way to enjoy the sea.
Dalmaji Hill
At the end of Haeundae Beach, there's a small hill called "Dalmaji" (literally "welcoming the moon"). Here you'll find the Moontan Road, a forest trail where mountains, sea, and humans become one. You might even spot deer and other wildlife! Don’t worry—no scary animals… at least not yet.
Halfway up Dalmaji, there’s a place where you can enjoy both a sauna and a jjimjilbang. Imagine soaking in a hot bath while gazing out at the ocean—it feels like becoming a deity! These facilities also feature Korea's unique jjimjilbang (spa sauna) culture. There’s even a rooftop space with panoramic ocean views, though it’s probably too cold to head up there in winter.
Yacht & Cruise Experience
Taking a yacht through Busan's glittering night skyline is another unforgettable experience. You can choose
between a private yacht or a cruise ship, depending on your style. During the day, feeding seagulls "Shrimp Snacks" (Saewookkang) from the deck is a beloved activity.
Year-Round Festivals
Haeundae hosts festivals throughout the year. In summer, of course, it's all about beach swimming.
• December–February: Light Festival, with spectacular illuminated sculptures along the beach and Gunam-ro
• May: Sand Festival, featuring massive sand sculptures and hands-on programs for kids
• November: Fireworks Festival (from 2025, held simultaneously at Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches)
• The beer festival at Centum Plaza has also become popular with international tourists
Beyond that, there’s still plenty more to enjoy.
You can wander through the traditional Haeundae Market and get a glimpse of everyday life in Busan.
Gwangalli Beach lies to the left, Osiria Beach to the right—each offering its own vibe and attractions.
Enjoy your vacation where the city meets the sea at Haeundae!
Gamcheon Culture Village: Korea's Colorful Hillside
Now let's head to Gamcheon Culture Village.
Gamcheon Culture Village has picked up a few nicknames over the years.
One of them is “Korea’s Machu Picchu.”
Anyone who has actually been to Machu Picchu would probably disagree, but from high above, the tightly packed houses do share a similar look. ^^
Another nickname is “Korea’s Santorini.”
This comparison feels a bit closer, though Gamcheon is noticeably more colorful.
A Village Born from War
Gamcheon Culture Village originated during the Korean War when refugees gathered here. Many Korean city names with "san" (山) include it because they have many mountains. The "san" in Busan means "mountain." That's why Busan has mountains not just on its outskirts but throughout the city center.
As refugees poured in during the war, they climbed up into the mountains and built small houses wherever they could—that's how Gamcheon began. Then in 2009, a village art project brought university students and artists who started painting murals, transforming it into what we see today.
Why Is It So Popular?
This is a place you have to walk to truly see, so pack light and let's go!
Buy a stamp map (₩2,000) from the village information center and follow it to complete your alley tour. Finding the artistic touches hidden in walls and alleyways throughout the village is delightfully fun.
There are also many hands-on experience programs. Participate with an open mind and you can create your own one-of-a-kind souvenir!
The Little Prince Photo Spot
The most popular photo zone features a Little Prince statue, and the wait can get long. You might wonder, "Why is this place so popular?" But perhaps it's because we all want to see this city, this world, through the eyes of the Little Prince.
Hanbok rentals are also hugely popular here. You can rent and wear traditional Korean hanbok or costumes from various historical periods. Taking photos with the Little Prince while wearing hanbok creates happy memories you'll treasure forever.
As you walk through the maze-like alleys past colorful houses, you'll feel something new awaken inside you. The Little Prince whispers to all visitors to Gamcheon:
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
Important Notice
Gamcheon Culture Village now receives over 8,000 visitors daily—three times its capacity. It's been designated a special management zone with new rules including vehicle restrictions and limited visiting hours. Please check the Gamcheon Culture Village website before visiting. These changes should make your trip safer and more comfortable!
If you're deciding on your next destination...
Just go to Busan.
If you’re planning a trip to Korea during winter,
you might also enjoy a unique seasonal festival just outside Seoul.
👉 Unique Korean Christmas Festival: Meet the Joseon Dynasty’s Santa King
Have you been there before? I’d love to hear what stood out to you!