Once you’ve exhausted the bountiful beauties of Busan, it’s time to consider day trips. Korea has over a thousand islands that can provide an invigorating respite from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Whether you've already explored Busan, or are just looking for a change of scenery, there are plenty day trip options you can consider taking on. If planning seems like a daunting task, let us recommend some great options!
Oedo Island
A barren, rocky island turned botanical paradise, Oedo Island is a testament to the cultivation efforts of Lee Chang-ho and his wife. It is known for its laid-back European atmosphere and the enormous marine botanical garden that spans the whole island. Its beautiful landscapes has been featured in many popular K-dramas, including the heartbreaking Winter Sonata and more recently, Hospital Ship.
A brief hike up the gorgeous Windy Hill will win the hearts of any K-drama lover, who will recognise it from memorable dramas such as Secret Boutique or Merry Go Round. Hundreds of bright flowers bloom in Oedo Botania, and you’ll be guided up the Stairway to Heaven for a truly heavenly view.
Tongyeong Island
Rumoured to be the most beautiful part of South Korea, Tongyeong Island is not to be missed. And it’s not just a feast for the eyes—Tongyeong Island is known for having the freshest seafood around, with specialities like catfish soup, chungmu kimbap, and flounder and mugwort soup to choose from.
Begin your exploration of the Port City by making your way through Tongyeong Jooongang. There, you’ll get to sample some of the local delicacies mentioned above. After filling your stomach, feed your camera at Dongpirang Village, a charming village with an abundance of picturesque murals to pose by. After, take the longest cable car in Korea up to the peak of Mount Mireuksan for breathtaking views. On days when the weather is fair, you can even get an expansive view of the South Sea.
Gyeongju
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Korea. Gyeongju is famous for its heritage sites and relics. And it’s no wonder why, after all it was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla, and home to some of the most incredible Buddhist art in the Far East. If you’re looking to find out more about Korea’s historic past, Gyeongju is the place to be.
First stop would be the head temple of Korean Buddhism, Bulguksa Temple. This unforgettable place of worship is considered one of the Seven national treasures of Korea, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on your spiritual journey after a quick lunch of bibimbap. You’ll get the chance to try on genuine Korean hanboks, and walk around Kyocho Hanok Village. After that, visit the famous historic tomb, Dameungeon at Donggung Palace for a glimpse of the palace life that once swept Korea and has been the subject of saeguks (Korean historical dramas) ever since.
Yeosu
Just a 2.5 hour bus ride away from Busan is the beautiful Yeosu. True to its name, which means “beautiful water”, the city is surrounded by the deep blue sea and is renowned for its coastal beauty. The maritime city actually consists of the Yeosu Peninsula and 317 islands, and was the former site of the South Jeolla Province Navy Base.
Enjoy the scenic ocean view on the Yeosu Ocean Rail Bike, a unique Korean activity that involves cycling along with family and friends along railway tracks on a 3.5km path. After, take a moment to visit the Hyangiram Hermitage, one of Korea’s four Buddhist Hermitages that used to function as a base camp for monks helping famed Admiral Yi Sun Shin combat the Japanese Invasion. Today, the temple is a quiet spot with beautiful flora and fauna to admire. You can also take the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car which stretches across the sea, to get an eyeful of Dolsandaegyo Bridge.
Namhae Island
Fishing, farming and garlic, find it all on Namhae Island. Namhae is another one of Korea’s islands that’s rich with beautiful natural landscapes, each more outstanding than the last. Lush forests, sunny beaches and small European villages decked out in cheerful colours, once again, Namhae has it all, making it one of Korea’s hidden gems.
Start off at Namhae German Village, for a glimpse of iconic German style buildings, complete with white walls and orange roofs. If that isn’t Instagram-worthy enough, take a quick shuttle bus to the peak of Geumsan Mountain, where you’ll find the temple among the clouds, Geumsan Boraim Hermitage. There you’re promised a single wish, and one of the most scenic views in Namhae. Looking down, you’ll get to see the sandy shores of Sangju Silver Sand Beach surrounded by the jagged peaks of mountains and cliffs. Also check out Mulgeon Windbreak Forest, a long line of green trees looking out into coast. Formerly built to protect the village from the rough seawinds, today the Mulgeon Windbreak Forest serves up a pretty sight. As for eats, Namhae is known for its anchovies in particular, dishes like myeolchi ssampbap (anchovy and vegetable wraps with rice) as well as myeolchi hoe (raw anchovies) are must-tries at any Namhae restaurant.
