7 Quirky and unconventional things to do in Busan, South Korea

Quirky & Adventurous: 7 Unconventional things to do in Busan, South Korea

Kanako Sugawara

16 Jul 2018

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Haedong Yonggungsa Trail
Nope, we’re not simply referring to a trail leading to the world-famous Haedong Yonggungsa temple! Although the temple itself is stunningly picturesque, did you know that there’s a trail near the temple that can lead you directly towards Songjeong beach? Take this road less taken (literally) and you'll stumble upon smaller, secluded beaches, fishing villages, and beautiful untrodden nature.
Photo: Getty Images
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Gwangalli Beach
Give the crowded and touristy Haeundae beach a miss and go for Gwangalli, the hidden coastal gem of Busan! Famous for its very fine sand, romantic restaurants and cafes, as well as stores selling famous fashion brands, Gwangalli beach offers all the advantages of a beach day out but without the crowds of tourists. The area itself also boasts a great nightlife, but many people come in the evening to take in the bright lights of Gwangandaegyo Bridge, stretching across the horizon.
Photo: Getty Images
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World’s Mystery Library
Opened by a prominent crime novel writer Kim Seong-jong, this multi-functional library, café, and discussion space is located in Dalmaji Hill. Perfect for crime fiction enthusiasts, this space is specially dedicated to all things mystery literature. Flick through both Korean and foreign mystery novels while sipping a cup of coffee or playing with the owner’s cute shiba inu!
More information here.

Photo: @ourchitectsperspective (Instagram)
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Take a Trip to Oedo Island
One of the biggest perks of touring a port city is that the nearby islands are just a ferry ride away! Oedo Island is a beautiful little island nestled off the southern coast of South Korea, near Geoje Island. With a mix of white classical statues, tall hedges, semi-tropical plants, and semi-tropical plants, Oedo island beautifully combines Eastern and Western architecture and garden styles. In fact, for all you K-drama lovers -- you might recognize it from the very last scene in “Winter Sonata”?
Photo: Visit Korea
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Cafe Avant Garde
We all know that Gamcheon Culture Village is the Amalfi Coast of Asia, but do you know where you can take the best photos without being surrounded by other avid tourists? Head on over to Avant Garde Cafe in Busan to have the best (and quietest view) of Gamcheon Culture Village and to enjoy a cuppa while you’re at it!
More information here.
Photo: @cafe_avant_garde (Instagram)
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Explore Japanese Ruins
In the late 16th century, Japanese Samurai lords built several castle-like fortresses in Busan in their expedition to conquer Joseon Korea and Ming China, known as the Imjin War. Although they did not succeed in making it to China, several of these historical 400-year-old castle ruins can be still be seen around Busan even today. Whether you’re a history buff or just like to look at old, antique architecture, check out this tourist spot that often doesn’t make it on a lot of travel guidebooks!
Photo: @aesotope (Instagram)
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Visit Jangsan Puppy cafe
Traveling is stressful, and puppy cafes are the best way to take a breather from all the hustle and bustle of being in a foreign country. A favourite among locals, the Jangsan Puppy Cafe houses dogs of all sizes, from black labs to miniature pinschers and Pekingese.
Photo: Busan for 91 Days

Check out our picks for places to go without being overrun by tourists!

Did you know that although both Busan and Seoul are iconic South Korean cities, they are completely worlds apart in terms of culture and environment? In fact, although it might be difficult to for us to discern and tell them apart, people in Busan and Seoul even speak in a different accent!

Busan might be known for its beaches, seafood, and their very manly men, but it also has a ton of hidden gems that are still yet to be frequented by tourists. From a library-slash-cafe specializing in mystery books, to trekking through local fishing villages and secluded beaches, ditch the K-drama location hopping and opt for these 7 unconventional things to do in Busan instead!

Kanako Sugawara

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