SKYSCRAPERS AND MOUNTAIN PEAKS

Cruise to Busan, South Korea

When you first set eyes on the cityscape of Busan, you'll see soaring skyscrapers set in the green mountainside. Korea's second-largest city, Busan is a hub of international allure and local flare. An efficient bus and train system lets you bounce throughout the city — head to Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside arts district where you'll find a kaleidoscopic collection of multicolored houses adorned with murals and graffiti. Then, climb the stairs to Haedong Yonggung Temple, set against the dramatic rocks and windswept waters of the coastline. Cruise to Busan and end your day with a leisurely stroll along Haeundae Beach, set between modern skyscrapers and wide-open views of the ocean and mountains.

National Language Korean

Currency Accepted South Korean Won (KRW)

Things To Do in Busan

A statue of a dragon at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan, South Korea

Tale of Two Temples

Just outside of the collection of skyscrapers that make up Busan, you can find Beomeosa Temple. One of Korea's Five Great Temples, its intricate artistry is enhanced by the serene mountainside. Next, see Korea's only coastal temple, Haedong Yonggungsa. Set dramatically into a cliff, it's dedicated to a legendary sea goddess.

Haeundae beach with a view of the cityscape in Busan, Korea

Umbrellas Out

On its busiest summer days, Haeundae Beach has over 7,000 white and blue umbrellas lining its two kilometers of white sand. Join in the fun with thousands of splashing swimmers and juggling street artists. After a swim, take a taxi up to the romantic Dalmaji Hil lookout point.

Two women looking at the sea from Taejongdae lighthouse observatory in Busan, South Korea

Korean Cliffhanger

Discover the beauty of Busan at Taejongdae Resort Park. Follow the winding mountainside path past dramatic, rocky cliffs to a gleaming white lighthouse perched on the summit. Enjoy the sights slowly by walking up or take the memorable road train to the top during your Busan cruise. Below the lighthouse, fishers sell raw abalone, clams and squid.

Seafood soup cooked in Jagalchi fish market in South Korea in Busan

Local Cuisine

Busan is world-renowned for its seafood. Choose your own live fish at Jagalchi Seafood Market — local favorites include squid and clams — and wait as they prepare on the spot and serve it to you. Cruise to Busan to walk along Haeundae Market and indulge in street food ranging from crispy eomuk fish cakes to sweet Korean-style pancakes and meaty steamed dumplings.

Shopping

Shinsegae Department Store Centum City is the world's largest department store and a great place to shop until you drop. With an entire floor dedicated to Korean cosmetics and beauty products such as face masks and another level dedicated to shoes, the range is incredible. For a traditional experience, find vintage dresses, shirts, hair pins and earrings at Gukje market.