When people think of South Korea, Seoul usually steals the spotlight. But if you’re looking to see another side of the country, make your way to Busan. South Korea’s second-largest city is packed with seaside attractions, bustling markets, charming neighborhoods, and enough local food to keep you coming back for more.
We recently joined the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) on a five-day familiarization trip to Busan and Gyeongju, South Korea. From seaside temples and colorful villages to bustling seafood markets and centuries-old landmarks, the trip showed us why Busan deserves more than just a quick stop after Seoul.
If you’re planning your next Korean adventure, here are some of the places that made our trip one for the books.
FROM SEASIDE TEMPLES TO COLORFUL VILLAGES
We wasted no time diving into Busan’s biggest attractions.
One of the first stops was Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a centuries-old Buddhist temple perched along Busan’s rocky coastline. Unlike most temples tucked away in the mountains, this one opens up to sweeping ocean views, making it one of the city’s most unforgettable sights.
From there, we hopped aboard the Haeundae Blue Line Park Beach Train, a leisurely ride along the coast that treated us to postcard-worthy views of the sea. We also crossed the Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, where the sound of crashing waves below made the short walk even more memorable.
The afternoon took us to Gamcheon Cultural Village, famous for its colorful hillside houses, narrow alleys, and murals around almost every corner. We also explored Dakbatgol Mural Village, a quieter neighborhood that offered a glimpse into Busan’s local history through its artwork and community spaces.
By evening, the city came alive. We wandered around BIFF Square, browsed the shops in Nampodong, sampled fresh seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market, and wrapped up the night with street food at Haeundae Beach Night Market.
A SIDE TRIP TO SOUTH KOREA’S ANCIENT CAPITAL
One of the biggest surprises of the trip was Gyeongju, a historic city just outside Busan that feels like stepping back in time.
We spent the day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple, dressed up in traditional hanbok while strolling around Hwangridan-gil, and visited some of Gyeongju’s most famous landmarks, including Cheomseongdae Observatory and the Daereungwon Royal Tombs.
We didn’t miss Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, where the beautifully lit palace reflected across the calm water. It was easily one of the most picturesque stops of the trip.
CAFÉS, SHOPPING, AND BUSAN’S LOCAL FAVORITES
Our last full day gave us a chance to slow down and experience another side of Busan.
We explored Huinnyeoul Culture Village, a charming seaside neighborhood filled with cafés, galleries, and scenic coastal views. We also dropped by ZM-ILLENIAL Magnate Café, a popular stop owned by the father of BTS member Jimin that has become a favorite among fans visiting Busan.
Before calling it a trip, we squeezed in one last shopping spree. From Korean skincare and duty-free stores to Shinsegae Simon Premium Outlet and Centum City, there was no shortage of reasons to leave a little extra space in our luggage. We also strolled by Gwangalli Beach, where the illuminated Gwangan Bridge provided the perfect backdrop in the city.
MORE THAN JUST A SIDE TRIP
Before this trip, Busan often felt like the destination people added after Seoul. After spending several days exploring the city, it’s easy to see why it deserves a trip of its own.
Between the fresh seafood, coastal views, colorful neighborhoods, historic sites, and laid-back atmosphere, Busan offers a different side of South Korea that many first-time visitors miss. Throw in a day trip to Gyeongju, and you’ll come home with a much deeper appreciation of the country’s culture, history, and everyday life.
Our familiarization trip, organized by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) together with its tourism partners in South Korea, also highlighted Busan as a welcoming destination for all travelers, making the journey even more meaningful.
If South Korea has been calling your name, consider looking beyond Seoul. Busan might just end up being the highlight of your trip.
