How to Get to Busan

One of the most popular questions searched in Google is how to get to Busan, the vibrant second largest city in South Korea. Filled with so much culture and exciting activities, Busan is a must-stop destination for tourists and locals alike – but getting there is a whole other question. That’s why we’ve created a detailed guide that outlines the best modes of transportation when traveling to Busan.

Getting to Busan by Plane

Traveling to Busan by plane is the most common way of getting to this lively city, and it is definitely the fastest option. There are two main airports located near Busan: the Gimhae International Airport and the Ulsan Airport. As serves over 75 cities worldwide, the Gimhae International Airport, located on the western side of the city, is where most travelers fly into. To get from Gimhae International Airport to central Busan, visitors can take buses, toll express buses and taxis for about 15,000 won ($12 USD).

Getting to Busan by Train

The second most popular way of getting to Busan is by train. Regular KTX and express trains run from Seoul to Busan, both taking a little over 3 hours. The ride is comfortable and usually quite scenic, passing mountainside and rural areas along the way. Regular train tickets that go from Seoul Station to Busan Station start at around 55,000 won ($45 USD), while express railway tickets start at around 70,000 won ($58 USD). For train times, routes, and more info on rail travel in South Korea, you can visit the Korail website.

Getting to Busan by Bus

Buses are also a great option when travelling to Busan. The majority of the buses that go to Busan depart from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal in Gangbyeon Station (subway line 2). The journey takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes and tickets start at 25,000 won ($21 USD). At Dong Seoul, visitors can find an array of Intercity and Express Buses that depart for cities in about 6-8 provinces – all buses that go from Seoul to Busan are Express Buses.

For more information on bus schedules and fares from Seoul Station to Busan Station, you can visit Trip.Com. This website provides an easy-to-use map where you can find out the exact departure times for each bus and an estimated price for the ticket for that route.

Driving to Busan

Finally, if you’re looking for an adventure and don’t mind driving a lot, it is possible to rent a car and drive from Seoul to Busan. The drive takes about 5 hours with no breaks and passes through mountainside roads in between cities like Gyeongju and Suwon. It’s an exciting way of getting to Busan!

When renting a car in South Korea, travelers must present an international driver’s license. Visitors who own cars can also obtain a Temporary Driver’s License from their Embassies or Consulates in Seoul with their Passports and a statement from their countries oforigin saying that they are allowed to drive with international licenses in South Korea. You can find more information at Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Overall, getting to Busan is quite easy when taking advantage of buses, trains or even planes. All three options offer access at reasonable prices – although flying is by far the quickest way of getting there. Whenever you do go on your trip to this fun city, make sure to also visit some of its other attractions such as Haeundae Beach,Beomeosa Temple and Gwangalli Beach – have fun!

An Insider’s Guide to Busan: The Second Largest City in South Korea

Busan is a bustling port city located on the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula. As the second largest city in South Korea, it is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and cultural attractions. With its rich history and modern infrastructure, Busan is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South Korea.

Getting to Busan

The easiest way to get to Busan is by plane. Busan’s main airport is Gimhae International Airport, which serves over 10 million passengers every year. There are direct flights to Gimhae from major cities around the world, including Tokyo, Beijing, Taipei, and Bangkok.

Another option is to take the KTX (Korea Train Express), which is a high-speed train that connects major cities in South Korea. The KTX journey from Seoul to Busan takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Top Local Attractions

1. Haeundae Beach – This is Busan’s most famous beach, and for a good reason. The soft sand and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect place to spend a sunny day. Haeundae Beach is also surrounded by a variety of restaurants and cafes.

2. Gamcheon Culture Village – Known as the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” the Gamcheon Culture Village is a vibrant, colorful neighborhood that has become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and steep staircases while enjoying the murals, sculptures, and art installations.

3. Jagalchi Fish Market – The Jagalchi Fish Market is the largest seafood market in Korea. Visitors can watch and buy an impressive variety of fresh fish, clams, and octopus. There are also many restaurants that offer freshly cooked seafood dishes.

Dining Spots

1. Samjin Eomuk – Busan is famous for its fish cakes, and Samjin Eomuk is the most famous fish cake restaurant in the city. There are several branches throughout the city, but the original branch in Nampo-dong is the best-known.

2. Kkangtong Market – This is one of Busan’s oldest markets and offers a wide variety of traditional Korean dishes. The market is divided into different sections, including a seafood section, a meat section, and a vegetable section.

3. Gukje Market – Gukje Market is Busan’s largest traditional market and has been in operation since 1940. Vendors sell everything, from food to souvenirs and clothing. It’s a great place to sample street food and shop for unique souvenirs.

Cultural Experiences

1. Beomeosa Temple – Located in the foothills of Geumjeongsan Mountain, Beomeosa Temple is one of Busan’s most important Buddhist temples. It was founded in 678 AD and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture, including the five-story pagoda and the Buddha statue.

2. Busan Museum – The Busan Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean history and culture. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from the prehistoric period to the Shilla, Goryeo, and Joseon dynasties.

Local History

During the Korean War, Busan was the temporary capital of South Korea. Many buildings and monuments in the city commemorate this difficult period. One such place is the UN Memorial Cemetery, where over 2,300 soldiers who died during the Korean War are buried.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Taejongdae – Taejongdae is a natural park located on the southern tip of Yeongdo Island. It offers stunning views of the sea, and visitors can take a tram or hike to the lighthouse.

2. Oryukdo Skywalk – The Oryukdo Skywalk is a glass walkway that extends 35 meters over the sea. It offers a thrilling experience and stunning views.

3. Songdo Beach – While Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach, Songdo Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere. The beach has a cable car that takes visitors across the bay and offers breathtaking views.

In conclusion, Busan is a fascinating city that offers an excellent mix of traditional Korean culture and modern city living. Whether you’re interested in beaches, seafood, history, or culture, Busan has something for everyone.