Busan’s beaches, markets, and vibrant nightlife are world-class, but the treasures just beyond the city limits are equally captivating. From serene temples to colorful coastal villages and lush forests, Busan’s nearby gems make for perfect day trips, offering a refreshing escape without needing an overnight stay. Tailored for international travelers, this guide highlights the best day trips from Busan, covering what to see, how to get there, costs, safety, and tips for non-Korean speakers. Whether you’re craving nature, culture, or food, these spots are within easy reach. Ready to venture out? Let’s explore the wonders around Busan!
Why Busan’s Day Trips Are a Must for International Travelers
Busan’s prime location on South Korea’s southeastern coast makes it an ideal base for exploring diverse landscapes and cultural sites, all within a 1–2-hour journey. These day trips offer a chance to see a different side of Korea—less urban, more tranquil, yet just as rich in flavor. In 2023, Busan’s surrounding areas drew millions, with foreigners from Japan, China, the U.S., and Europe flocking to spots like Gijang, Yangsan, and Tongyeong for their unique charm. Perfect for travelers with 3–5 days in Busan, these escapes add depth to your itinerary without breaking the bank.
What makes Busan’s day trips so special?
- Diverse Experiences: From seaside villages to mountain temples, there’s something for every vibe.
- Easy Access: Trains, buses, and taxis make getting there a breeze, even for first-timers.
- Foreigner-Friendly: English signs, apps, and local hospitality keep things smooth.
- Affordable Fun: Most trips cost under $50, including transport and food.
Ready for a quick adventure? Here’s your guide to the best day trips from Busan, each offering a unique slice of Korea.
Top Day Trips from Busan
We’ve picked four standout destinations—Gijang, Yangsan, Tongyeong, and Oedo Island—each reachable in 1–2 hours and packed with activities for a full day of exploration.
1. Gijang – Coastal Charm and Crab Feasts
- Why Go?: Just 30 minutes from Busan, Gijang is a coastal haven famous for its fresh crab, scenic cliffs, and laid-back vibe. It’s less touristy than Haeundae but equally stunning.
- Distance/Time: 15–20 km, 30–40 minutes by bus or taxi.
- What to Do:
- Gijang Market: Sample king crab (20,000–50,000 KRW) or grilled eel (15,000 KRW) at seafood stalls. Open 8 AM–8 PM.
- Jukseong Dream Church: Snap photos at this K-drama set (free), a quirky chapel by the sea.
- Daebyeon Port: Stroll the harbor for ocean views and fishing boat charm (free).
- How to Get There:
- Bus: From Haeundae Station, take #181 or #1003 to Gijang Market (1,300 KRW, 30 minutes).
- Taxi: 15–20 minutes from Haeundae (10,000–15,000 KRW). Say “Gijang Sijang” or show: 기장시장.
- Costs: Bus round trip (2,600 KRW), crab lunch (20,000–40,000 KRW), coffee at Waveon Cafe (5,000 KRW). Total: ~30,000–50,000 KRW.
- English Support: Market has photo menus; cafes like Waveon offer English. Use Papago for stalls.
- Why Foreigners Love It: Fresh seafood, Instagram-worthy views, and a quieter alternative to Busan’s beaches.
- Tip: Visit in fall for the Gijang Crab Festival (March 2025, check Visit Busan). Wear comfy shoes for harbor walks.
2. Yangsan – Temples and Tranquil Trails
- Why Go?: Yangsan, 40 minutes north, is home to Tongdosa Temple, one of Korea’s “Three Jewel Temples,” set against forested hills perfect for a spiritual or nature-filled day.
- Distance/Time: 30–35 km, 40–50 minutes by bus or train.
- What to Do:
- Tongdosa Temple: Explore ancient halls and a relic of Buddha (free entry, 8 AM–6 PM). Join a temple stay taster (10,000 KRW, English-guided).
- Hongryong Falls: Hike a 1-hour trail (free) to a serene waterfall near the temple.
- Yangsan Tower: Catch city views from this lookout (free, 10-minute walk from bus stop).
- How to Get There:
- Bus: From Busan Station, take #12 or #130 to Tongdosa (2,000 KRW, 45 minutes).
- Train: KTX to Yangsan Station (5,000 KRW, 20 minutes), then taxi to Tongdosa (5,000 KRW).
- Taxi: 40 minutes from Seomyeon (20,000 KRW). Show: 통도사.
- Costs: Bus round trip (4,000 KRW), temple donation (2,000 KRW), lunch (8,000 KRW for bibimbap). Total: ~15,000–30,000 KRW.
- English Support: Temple has English pamphlets; restaurants use photo menus.
- Why Foreigners Love It: A peaceful contrast to Busan’s buzz, with hiking and history in one trip.
- Tip: Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees). Spring or fall (cherry blossoms or foliage) are stunning.
3. Tongyeong – The “Naples of Korea”
- Why Go?: Tongyeong, a coastal city 1.5 hours south, boasts colorful villages, island views, and seafood galore, earning its nickname for Mediterranean-like charm.
- Distance/Time: 80 km, 1.5 hours by bus or car.
- What to Do:
- Dongpirang Village: Wander mural-covered alleys (free), a vibrant art hub like Gamcheon but quieter.
- Jungang Market: Try chungmu gimbap (rice rolls with squid, 8,000 KRW) or honey bread (5,000 KRW). Open 7 AM–7 PM.
- Skyline Luge: Zoom down a hillside track (15,000 KRW, English instructions).
- How to Get There:
- Bus: From Busan Sasang Terminal, express bus to Tongyeong (12,000 KRW, 1.5 hours).
- Taxi/Car Rental: 1.5 hours (50,000 KRW taxi). Show: 통영 동피랑.
- Costs: Bus round trip (24,000 KRW), lunch (8,000–15,000 KRW), luge (15,000 KRW). Total: ~50,000–70,000 KRW.
- English Support: Market has pointing menus; luge staff speak English.
- Why Foreigners Love It: A mini Busan with art, food, and adventure, perfect for photos.
- Tip: Start early (7 AM bus) to maximize time. Wear sunscreen—village walks are sunny.
4. Oedo Island – Botanical Island Paradise
- Why Go?: Oedo, a lush island 2 hours from Busan, is a privately owned botanical garden with Mediterranean-style greenery, ideal for a dreamy escape.
- Distance/Time: 60 km + ferry, 2 hours total (1-hour bus, 30-minute ferry).
- What to Do:
- Botanical Garden: Stroll flower-lined paths, sculptures, and sea views (entry 11,000 KRW, 9 AM–6 PM).
- Hallyeosudo Viewing Cable Car: Ride to panoramic cliffs (14,000 KRW, near ferry port).
- Geoje Panorama Cafe: Sip coffee (5,000 KRW) with island vistas.
- How to Get There:
- Bus + Ferry: From Busan Station, bus #2000 to Geoje Jangseungpo Port (7,000 KRW, 1 hour), then ferry to Oedo (12,000 KRW round trip, 30 minutes).
- Tour Package: Klook offers bus+ferry tours (40,000 KRW, English-guided).
- Taxi: To Geoje port (40,000 KRW), then ferry. Show: 외도 보타니아.
- Costs: Bus+ferry (19,000 KRW round trip), entry (11,000 KRW), lunch (10,000 KRW). Total: ~40,000–60,000 KRW.
- English Support: Ferry and garden have English signs; cafes use photo menus.
- Why Foreigners Love It: A serene, photogenic getaway with European flair.
- Tip: Book ferry tickets online for summer—spots sell out. Allow 1.5 hours on the island.
How to Plan Your Busan Day Trip
Busan’s transit system makes day trips a snap:
- Bus: Intercity buses from Sasang or Nopo Terminal (2,000–12,000 KRW). Check Busan Bus Terminal’s English site.
- Train: KTX or Mugunghwa trains from Busan Station (5,000–10,000 KRW). Book via Korail’s English app.
- Taxi: Reliable for short trips like Gijang (10,000–20,000 KRW) or Yangsan (20,000 KRW). Use KakaoTaxi for English.
- T-money Card: Covers buses and subways (1,300–2,000 KRW/trip). Buy at convenience stores.
Tip: Start by 8 AM to maximize daylight. Naver Maps or KakaoMetro show English routes. Pack water and sunscreen.
Costs and Budgeting for Day Trips
These trips are affordable:
- Transport: Bus/train round trip (2,600–24,000 KRW), taxi (10,000–50,000 KRW).
- Activities: Free (temples, villages) to 15,000 KRW (luge, cable car).
- Food: Market snacks (3,000–10,000 KRW), meals (8,000–40,000 KRW).
- Extras: Souvenirs like local honey (10,000 KRW) or charms (5,000 KRW).
Tax Refunds: Tongyeong or Geoje markets may offer VAT refunds (min. 30,000 KRW). Save receipts for Gimhae Airport.
Budget Tip: Gijang or Yangsan trips cost ~20,000–40,000 KRW. Tongyeong or Oedo run ~50,000–80,000 KRW.
Safety and Travel Tips for International Visitors
Busan’s day trips are safe and welcoming:
- Crowds: Weekends are busier—watch bags in markets. Pickpocketing is rare.
- Terrain: Trails (Yangsan, Oedo) need sneakers; cliffs in Gijang require care.
- Weather: Rain makes paths slippery—check Busan forecasts. Summer needs sunscreen.
- Respect: Dress modestly at temples (cover shoulders). Keep noise low in villages.
- Health: Markets are clean, but carry sanitizer for raw seafood. Ask for mild flavors if needed.
Emergency: Dial 119 for medical/police or 112 for tourist police (English support). Info booths at bus terminals have first aid.
Navigating as a Non-Korean Speaker
These destinations are foreigner-friendly:
- Signs and Tickets: English signs at temples, markets, and ferries. Klook tours offer English guides.
- Staff: Cafe and tour staff speak basic English; market vendors use apps or gestures.
- Apps: Papago or Google Translate decode menus/signs. Naver Maps pins locations.
Handy Korean Phrases
- 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo): Hello
- 버스 어디서 타요? (Beoseu eodiseo tayo?): Where’s the bus?
- 이거 얼마예요? (Igeo eolmayeyo?): How much is this?
- 사진 찍어도 되나요? (Sajin jjigeodo doinayo?): Can I take a photo?
- 맛있어요 (Masisseoyo): It’s delicious!
Tip: Save phrases digitally. A “감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)” (thank you) warms hearts.
Finding Authentic Reviews and Tips
Want real traveler stories? Here’s where to look:
- Social Media: Search #GijangTravel, #TongyeongDayTrip, #OedoIsland, or #YangsanKorea on Instagram, X, or YouTube. Recent posts (2024–2025) from accounts like @koreadaytrips or @busanexplorer show vibes.
- Travel Platforms: Tripadvisor, Reddit (r/koreatravel), or Visit Busan’s site have reviews on transport, food, and sights.
- Blogs/Vlogs: Google “Busan day trips” for expat posts or vlogs like “Tongyeong from Busan.” Skip tour ads for honesty.
Red Flag: Ignore reviews pushing one spot—check X for candid takes or off-season tips.
Seasonal Tips: When to Explore
Each season enhances these trips:
- Spring (Mar–May): Mild (10–20°C), cherry blossoms in Yangsan, crab season in Gijang.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot (20–30°C), ideal for Oedo’s gardens or Tongyeong’s sea breeze. Book ferries early.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Cool (15–25°C), vibrant foliage in Yangsan, clear views in Tongyeong.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Chilly (0–10°C), quiet trails in Yangsan, cozy cafes in Gijang.
Event Alert: Tongyeong Hansan Battle Festival (August) or Yangsan Lotus Festival (June) add flair—check Visit Busan’s English site for 2025.
Practical FAQs from Foreign Visitors
Q: Which trip is easiest for beginners?
A: Gijang—close, cheap, and food-focused with simple transit.
Q: Can I do these solo?
A: Yes, all are safe and navigable. Tours add company if desired.
Q: Are restrooms available?
A: Clean, free restrooms at markets, temples, and ports.
Q: How much time do I need?
A: 5–8 hours per trip, including transit and activities.
Q: Is English common?
A: More at touristy spots (Oedo); markets use apps. Be patient!
Conclusion: Discover Busan’s Backyard
Busan’s day trips are your gateway to Korea’s hidden wonders—from Gijang’s crab feasts to Oedo’s island blooms. Affordable, accessible, and packed with charm, they’re perfect for travelers craving adventure beyond the city. Pack your camera, hop a bus, and let these nearby gems steal your heart.
Bookmark This Guide: With trails, villages, and islands to explore, save this post or share it with friends to keep Busan’s day trips close. Hungry for more Korea adventures? Stay tuned for what’s next!