Travelling Busan
Before You Travel
As most of us know, there's life outside Seoul. Busan is often an overlooked city, as many flock to Seoul, bright lights, big capital. But ask any Korean and they will tell you - Korea's second largest city Busan is by no means the ugly sister in the family. In fact, Busan is the real Korea. Colorful, brash but endearing, Busan is a rough diamond that certainly speaks for itself, as spending time with the locals will show you. Busan may feel like second fiddle for now but it's time is coming.
• Haeundae Beach
If you're going to head to the beach then there are seven in Busan to choose from. You must see Haeundae Beach - the most popular beach in Korea. Crowds cram this place every day in August and umbrellas mushroom across this 2km space but it has to be seen to be believed. Don't expect any great shakes as far as quiet beach resorts go, just enjoy it for what it is, it's an experience you won't forget. If personal space is more your thing, avoid July and August, there are less crowds and it is a more tranquil place - you may not be able to swim but a stroll along the white sands and the sounds of seagulls is perfect on a cool spring day. Just opt for exit 3 from Haeundae station, turn left and walk 250m.
• Heosimcheong Spa
Located just 15 minutes from Oncheonjang train station, Heosimcheong Spa is a complete chill out zone. Supposedly, the biggest hot spa in Asia, it has a none too meek capacity of 2,000 people. Based on the 4th floor, it is packed with tubs and saunas. You can grab a robe and kick back for a couple of hours, all for the princely sum of 8,000 won. Body scrubs and massages are extra and last entry is 9 pm.
• Beomeosa Temple
If you're into temples check out this majestic Buddhist temple which is one of the main highlights on a trip to Busan and doesn't fail to impress. Located at the base of the famous Geumjeongsan Mountain, it's the stairway to heaven.
In "Dongguk jeojiseungram" (historical text) the origin of the temple is told and has an interesting legend behind it. They say, there was a well at the top of the mountain and the water was, well, gold. Apparently, the golden fish in the well rode the colorful clouds and came down from the sky (sounds feasible to me). That is why the mountain is named Geumsaem (gold well) and the temple is named "fish from heaven." Maybe the story does sounds rather farfetched but the serenity and beauty of the place is amazing and good for the soul. The idyllic setting actually makes you want to experience psychedellic things, such as gold fish riding candy colored clouds.
The original temple was destroyed during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592 but was renovated in 1713. It is one of the most ornate temples from the Joseon Dynasty. Despite its city location, it is set against a lush, mountainous backdrop. To get there take the subway to Beomeosa train station (exit 5), walk 200m to the small bus station and finally take bus No.90 for 15 minutes.
Busan Tours
