I have now been in Busan for two months. I am definitely more comfortable here now. I have a better idea of where things are and how they work. So, now that I have my bearings, I can talk about some places that I have been thus far. Of course, there are many more places I still need to experience, so that will be a future post.
Shinsegae Centum City Department Store
My first weekend in Busan, my friends and I visited the Shinsegae Centum City Department Store. It is the largest shopping complex in the world, and that was pretty easy to see. As my friend and I were trying to meet up with the rest of our group, we might have gotten turned around once or twice. There are multiple buildings and even more floors in both buildings. There are various stores that carry many different items at a wide range of prices. Even if you don’t like shopping, I recommend going. It is very cool to see.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
This was an incredibly beautiful temple located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Walking up to the temple, you first walk through a path that encourages the buying of street food and little trinkets. Before the actual temple, there are statues of the different Chinese zodiac animals among other things. After that, there are many stairs and paths that lead you to different places in the temple. All the while, there is beautiful architecture and a breathtaking view to enjoy.
The one drawback to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is the amount of people. It is understandable that is is busy as it is a very popular spot, but be aware before you go. There are people everywhere!
Gamcheon Culture Village
Another very cool and interesting place is Gamcheon Culture Village. This is an old village that came about during the Korean War for refugees. In 2009 artists decided to paint the village. Now it is a very distinct place in Busan for its history, set up on a mountain, and art covering most of it. And that art is very fun to look at. It is incredibly colorful and unlike anything I have seen in Korea thus far.
While there are still residents that live their daily lives there, it definitely has a touristy appeal as well. Part of the area is lined with souvenir shops and stands to buy different foods.
More Places to See
There are definitely more places to explore in Busan but also in the rest of Korea. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my time here exploring all of them. For now, I think I have done okay finding these places.
Jessica in South Korea 