When you think of traveling to Korea, what comes to mind? Is it the trendy streets of Seoul or the picturesque island of Jeju? The route through Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam will surprise you!
This time, Team Weekender was invited by the Korea Tourism Organization to explore the less-traveled paths of Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam. Our journey completely shattered our expectations, revealing a Korea rich in history, art, and natural beauty.
For this trip, we chose Jeju Air, which offers direct flights from Singapore to Busan. The flights are affordable, and the seats are surprisingly spacious. If you feel hungry during the flight, we recommend trying their Korean meal options – they’re quite delicious! Tried & proven!
Let’s look back at some of the most unforgettable destinations from our trip.
A Photographer’s Paradise: Arte Museum Busan
Arte Museum Busan is an absolute dream for photography enthusiasts! This immersive digital art museum is renowned for its stunning visuals and multi-sensory experiences. As soon as we stepped inside, our minds were flooded with countless photo ideas.
Each exhibit in the museum is a masterpiece in its own right: from dreamy, blossoming flower fields to turbulent oceans and fantastical animal worlds, every space where light and shadow intertwine is simply breathtaking. Believe us, every photo you take here will have that cinematic quality. The perfect blend of lights, colors, and music adds a touch of magic and beauty to the entire space.
Soaring Above the Sea: Taejongdae Ocean Flying Theme Park
Located in Busan, Taejongdae Ocean Flying Theme Park is an extraordinary destination that seamlessly blends breathtaking natural scenery with thrilling adventures. This park is renowned for its stunning coastal views and, in particular, its exhilarating zipline experience.
Under the watchful guidance of experienced staff, we donned our safety gear and ascended the platform. With a countdown, we launched ourselves into the air. As we soared through the sky, our hearts raced excitedly, but we were quickly captivated by the magnificent panorama below. The sun danced on the rippling waves, and the salty sea breeze caressed our faces. The endless ocean expanse, the towering cliffs, and the solitary lighthouse in the distance created a serene and awe-inspiring sight.
After our exhilarating flight, we took a moment to unwind at the oceanfront café. Over a cup of aromatic coffee and fresh pastries, we shared stories and captured the memories of our adventure. Finally, we concluded our visit with an interactive media art exhibition, a fun and creative way to end our exciting journey.
Nature’s Masterpiece: Ulsan Daewangam Park
Located on the Ulsan coastline, Daewangam Park is renowned as one of the most beautiful coastal parks in South Korea. With its expansive ocean views, unique rock formations, and abundant natural vegetation, it offers a truly breathtaking spectacle.
We strolled along the park’s winding paths, passing through lush pine forests until we reached the cliff’s edge. There, towering above the surging waves, stood the majestic Daewangam Rock, resembling a formidable guardian. The sound of the crashing waves was deafening, and a distant lighthouse stood watch. Occasionally, a playful cat would dart between the rocks, and seabirds soared overhead. At that moment, we were completely captivated by the raw power of nature.
To our surprise, we encountered haenyeo, or Korean women free divers, harvesting seafood just offshore. Dressed in traditional diving suits and masks, these remarkable women, some well into their 80s, displayed incredible strength and resilience.
The freshly caught seafood was brought directly to stalls within the park, where visitors could purchase their catch. We ordered a seafood platter and paired it with soju, savouring the taste of the ocean while sitting at a small stall overlooking crystal-clear waters. It was a truly unforgettable experience.
A Spiritual Retreat: Hadong-gun Haeinsa Temple
Located in Hadong County, South Korea, Haeinsa Temple is one of the country’s most renowned Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its rich history and deep religious significance, Haeinsa Temple is particularly revered for housing the Tripitaka Koreana, a collection of Buddhist scriptures.
When we visited Haeinsa Temple, autumn had arrived, painting the surrounding landscape in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The maple, ginkgo, and pine trees created a stunning backdrop for the ancient temple.
Inside the temple, monks were diligently engaged in their daily rituals and prayers. As we entered the main hall, we saw many people quietly praying before the Buddha statues. The atmosphere was filled with peace and solemnity, providing a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this serene environment, one can truly connect with oneself, nature, and the spiritual realm.
Health and Happiness: Sancheong Donguibogam Village
Sancheong Donguibogam Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Babong and Mount Wangsan, is a unique blend of traditional medicine, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage. This area is believed to be a potent source of “gi,” a vital life force energy in Korean philosophy.
The village is renowned for its three sacred stones: Gyegamseok, Seokgyeong, and Bokseokding. Legend has it that these stones possess mystical powers that bring good health and fortune. Visitors flock here to touch the stones and make their wishes.
Beyond the sacred stones, Donguibogam Village is celebrated for its deep-rooted tradition of Korean herbal medicine. We had the opportunity to participate in a workshop where we learned how to make Gungchundang, a traditional Korean herbal medicine believed to improve overall health. The experience of making our own medicine, with its fragrant herbal aroma, was truly invigorating.
The village offers much more to explore. We crossed the famous suspension bridge and visited the Korean Herbal Medicine Museum. This area has even served as a filming location for numerous Korean dramas.
In essence, Sancheong Donguibogam Village is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and the wisdom of traditional Korean medicine.
This trip to Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam completely changed our perception of Korea. From the stunning natural landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement. We highly recommend exploring these hidden gems if you’re looking for a unique travel destination.
A Chinese version of the article appeared here.
Are you looking to discover more fun places in the world? Click here.
ADVERTISEMENTS