Things to do in  Busan

South Korea’s premier seaside city is most famous for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple—one of the few seaside temples in the country. Busan also boasts the sandy Songjeong and Haeundae beaches, backed by the city skyline; the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village; and a thriving film culture, celebrated during the annual Busan Film Festival.

To experience the best of Busan’s culture and nature, spend between three and five days. You'll have the chance to see top city sights such as Jagalchi Fish Market, Beomeosa Temple, Yongdusan Park, and Gamcheon Culture Village, plus visit further-afield attractions including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Taejongdae Resort Park.

The best time to visit Busan is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October). Like Japan, South Korea experiences cherry blossom season—the blossoms peak from late March to early April. Busan buzzes in June, when students and locals flock to the city for summer to party and enjoy the beaches.

Busan boasts an all-star cast of beaches, museums, temples, and markets. Top Busan attractions include the seaside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple; rainbow-colored Gamcheon Culture Village; Songjeong and Haeundae beaches; Busan Museum of Art; Busan Tower; and Taejongdae Resort Park.

The old name of Busan is Pusan. The South Korean government changed the name of Busan to Pusan to make it sound more appealing when pronounced in English.

The best area to stay when visiting Busan depends on what aspect of the seaside city you want to experience. Stay in central Seomyeon for easy access to top attractions; Haeundae is within easy reach of the beach; Nampo is best for shopping and eating; and budget-friendly Kyungsung has a hipster vibe.