One of the many benefits of traveling to Busan is the amount of accessible day trips that are available. Whether it be to the north in Gyeongju or the west in Yeosu, a day trip from Busan can be one of the many highlights of your trip to Korea. It gives you a chance to get out of the big city and experience the many wonders Korea has to offer, like Seonamsa Temple 선암사 for example. When planning your trip to Korea or maybe you are already living in Korea, I would strongly recommend doing a day trip or overnight trip outside of Busan and see what the outer cities have to offer as you won’t be disappointed.

If you plan on traveling by KTX in Korea, you may want to check out the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass) to save money.

A Day Trip to Yeosu 여수

A Yeosu day-trip from Busan can be done either as a day trip or an overnight trip. It can also be done with a trip to Suncheon as they are very close. Yeosu is a very scenic city (a large island) in the south of Korea which is famous for food such as Gejang 게장 which is raw crab marinated in soy sauce. It is also famous for Admiral Yi’s Turtle Ship 거북선 which is a replica of a Korean warship that was used intermittently by the Royal Korean Navy during the Joseon dynasty.

Yeosu Tourist Map

What to Do in Yeosu

There is quite a lot to do in Yeosu so the first thing you must decide is what you must-see in Yeosu. Although we spent 1 night here, we arrived late so we really only had 1 day in Yeosu to explore. So we opted for the following list below (minus Hanwa Aqua Planet). The one place that surprised me the most was the Ocean Railbike 여수해양레일바이크 as it was a nice day with a great breeze and of coarse a beautiful view overlooking the ocean.

If you plan on spending 2 days in Yeosu I would suggest covering the below sights over 2 days making your transit to and from a little easier and more relaxed. If you aren’t one for traveling solo or prefer a bus tour from Busan, Klook has a well rounded bus tour from Busan to Yeosu.

Admiral Yi’s Turtle Ship

거북선

Maritime Cable Car

여수 해상케이블카

Ocean Railbike

여수해양레일바이크

Yeosu Night Sea

여수밤바다

Dolsan Bridge

돌산대교

Hanhwa Aqua Planet Yeosu

아쿠아플라넷 여수

Where to Stay in Yeosu

For those opting for a overnight trip to Yeosu, most of the best sights in Yeosu are located within close proximity to Admiral Yi’s Turtle Ship 거북선 so I would recommend staying somewhere close to that area which is only a short distance away from the Yeosu Intercity Bus Terminal. Depending on what kind of accommodation you are looking for, there are many options ranging from guesthouses to hotels. If I were to recommend a place to stay in Yeosu, I would suggest staying at the Backpackers in Yeosu, The Big O Show Guesthouse or if you would like a bit more luxury then the Yeosu Hotel Haven is also a great choice.

Backpackers In Yeosu – Click here for prices

With very affordable prices on both dormitory and private room options it is hard to beat the value of this place (breakfast is included!). Not far from the Yeosu Intercity Bus Terminal and close to the main sights, there is a reason why this is one of the most popular accommodations in Yeosu. Some other bonuses are Free Wifi (which should be standard everywhere these days and luggage storage which is super helpful).

Big O Show Guesthouse – Click here for prices

With similar pricing and options as the Backpackers in Yeosu above, this guesthouse provides free parking, a terrace and an outside garden. They also provide a decent American breakfast. Another great option with a slightly larger common room/kitchen. Very close to the important sights within Yeosu.

Yeosu Hotel Haven – Click here for prices

Located overlooking Geobukseon Bridge 거북선대교 and not far away from another great value hotel The Hotel Soo, Yeosu Hotel Haven is a nice place to really unwind and relax. It features an outdoor swimming pool, 24 hour front desk and a business centre. It is located a little further from the Yeosu Intercity Bus Terminal than the other places above but still within a reasonable distance. For travelers looking for a little extra comfort when coming to Yeosu, I would recommend the rooms at this Hotel.

How to get from Busan to Yeosu

How to get from Busan to Yeosu by Bus

Catching a bus from Busan to Yeosu will take just under 3 hours and cost you about ₩15,000 for the basic fare. The bus normally departs from Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal and arrives at the Yeosu Intercity Bus Terminal (as shown in my map above).

You can purchase tickets HERE and also check the locations of Bus Terminals throughout Korea HERE. To change the language click on the drop-down in the top-right next to 한국어.

How to get from Busan to Yeosu by Car

Driving from Busan to Yeosu is relatively easy and can be done in just 2 hours and 20 minutes (Link to the driving route). If you do drive to Yeosu be sure to check with your guesthouse / hotel / backpackers that free parking is available. If you are planning to Rent a Car in Korea I can recommend using www.rentalcars.com as I have booked through them before many times and always had great service.

To see the details of my trip to Yeosu, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to Suncheon 순천

A Suncheon day trip from Busan is a great way to get out of the city and really enjoy the countryside of Korea. Suncheon has some really fantastic temples in Seonamsa Temple 선암사 and Songgwangsa Temple 송광사 which can’t be missed. If you are short on time then I would suggest visiting Seonamsa Temple 선암사 on a day tour or if you have a car you may just be able to squeeze in both in the same day. As mentioned above, it is very close to Yeosu, so if you have a couple of days to spend, I would suggest combining Yeosu in with your travel plans.

Suncheon Tourist Map

What to Do in Suncheon

Whether you are coming for a day trip to Suncheon or a overnight trip, you won’t be disappointed. Suncheon is one of my favourite places to visit in Korea and that is largely thanks to the magnificent Seonamsa Temple 선암사 and the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve 순천만습지. They are both great natural places and it really makes you feel like you have escaped from the bustling city life.

Once arriving in Suncheon, I took this City Tour which included the sights I have mentioned below. This was quite convenient however public transport is also possible.

Seonamsa Temple

선암사

Naganeupseong Folk Village

낙안읍성

Suncheon Bay National Garden

순천만국가정원

Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve

순천만습지

Songgwangsa Temple

송광사

Where to Stay in Suncheon

For those opting for a overnight trip to Suncheon, it has quite a few decent guesthouses which are located perfectly near the Suncheon Express Bus Terminal which allows travelers to spend more time enjoying the sights and FOOD! rather than traveling to and from their accommodation. We arrived by train from Yeosu and therefore exited at the Suncheon Station which is also very close to the Suncheon Express Bus Terminal.

Sucheon Namu Guesthouse – Click here for prices

Arguably the most popular place to stay while in Suncheon because of its close proximity to Suncheon Express Bus Terminal and value for money. Also being so close to the bus terminal means there are a bunch of 24-hour restaurants close by for those who like eating into the night/morning. Free breakfast is included and luggage storage is also an option. Would highly recommend.

24 Guesthouse Suncheon – Click here for prices

Some of you who have stayed in Korea before might recognize the name of this guesthouse as they have a lot of 24 guesthouses all throughout Korea. It is located fairly close to the Suncheon Train Station so might be a good option if you plan to arrive by train to Suncheon (although the Suncheon Express Bus Terminal is only a short walk anyways). This guesthouse has all the essential basics such as Wifi and free toiletries and even includes an in-house restaurant for those who don’t want to venture to far after a long day.

European Porcelain Museum Hostel – Click Here for prices

For those who are looking for something a little different or larger, this interesting Hostel offers a room service and gives you a choice between an Italian or Asian breakfast. It also has a terrace and a garden which for some might be exactly what you are after. It is located slightly north of the Suncheon Express Bus Terminal and will take 15 minutes by bus.

How to get from Busan to Suncheon

How to get from Yeosu to Suncheon by Train

If you are combining Yeosu in your travels like I did, you can simply catch a train from the Yeosu-Expo Train Station to Suncheon Station for ₩8,500 and it only takes 20 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on the KTX Website.

How to get from Busan to Suncheon by Bus

Catching a bus from Busan to Suncheon will take 2 hours and 30 minutes and cost you about ₩13,000 for the basic fare. The bus normally departs from Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal and arrives at the Suncheon Express Bus Terminal (as shown in my map above).

You can purchase tickets HERE and also check the locations of Bus Terminals throughout Korea HERE. To change the language click on the drop-down in the top-right next to 한국어.

How to get from Busan to Suncheon by Car

Driving from Busan to Suncheon is relatively easy and can be done in just 2 hours and 5 minutes (Link to the driving route). If you do drive to Suncheon be sure to check with your guesthouse / hotel / backpackers that free parking is available. If you are planning to Rent a Car in Korea I can recommend using www.rentalcars.com as I have booked through them before many times and always had great service.

To see the details of my trip to Suncheon, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to Gyeongju 경주

Gyeongju was once the capital city of the ancient Silla kingdom and therefore contains a lot of great historical sights and has over 16,000 artifacts within the Gyeongju National Museum. It is located only 55 minutes from Busan (Nopo Bus Terminal) and has buses leaving very frequently.

Gyeongju Tourist Map

What to Do in Gyeongju

A day trip to Gyeongju from Busan is quite an easy and convenient day out to enjoy the historical sites Gyeongju has to offer. If you have decided to do a day trip to Gyeongju then you should really just focus on the main sights of Gyeongju I have listed below (minus Yangdong Folk Village 경주 양동마을). If you decide to do an overnight trip to Gyeongju, then the list below is enough to keep you busy.

If you aren’t one for traveling solo or prefer a bus tour from Busan, Klook has a well rounded bus tour from Busan to Gyeongju.

Tumuli Park – Daereungwon Tomb Complex

대릉원 천마총

Cheomseongdae Observatory

첨성대

Gyeongju National Museum

국립경주박물관

Bulguksa Temple

불국사

Seokguram Grotto

석굴암

Anapji Pond

안압지

Gyochon Traditional Village

경주 교촌마을

Gyerim

계림

Bomun Lake Resort

보문관광단지

Yangdong Folk Village

경주 양동마을

Where to Stay in Gyeongju

If you have decided to stay the night in Gyeongju then you will want a conveniently located place to maximize your time. The following list of accommodation in Gyeongju are recommendations from when I traveled to Gyeongju.

Dorandoran Guesthouse – Click here for prices

The location of this Hanok guesthouse is second to none. It is literally located across the street from Cheomseongdae Observatory 첨성대 and even has laundry services available if you need. It is Budget friendly and has excellent customer service which makes it hard to beat.

Gyeongju GG Tourist Hotel – Click here for prices

This is easily one of the most conveniently located places to stay in Gyeongju as it is located just 2 minutes walk away from the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal. This allows you to arrive or depart from the hotel with ease and means you don’t have to carry your luggage very far if coming by bus. It has a 24-hour reception along with free parking which makes this an attractive place to stay.

G HOUSE Mini Hotel & Guesthouse – Click here for prices

This place is well reviewed and is incredibly affordable which is why it is so appealing for budget travelers to Gyeongju. It even includes breakfast in the rate which makes this guesthouse one of the best in Gyeongju in terms of value for money. Rooms are clean, luggage storage, free parking and a shared kitchen provide something for everyone. Very close to the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal as well. Definitely worth a look before booking your accommodation.

How to get from Busan to Gyeongju

How to get from Busan to Gyeongju by Bus

To get to the main sights in Gyeongju from Busan by Bus, you will need to catch a bus from the Nopo Bus Terminal to Gyeongju which costs between ₩5,000 and ₩10,000 and takes about 55 minutes. Click here to purchase tickets and see timetables. Please note: To change the language click on the drop-down in the top-right next to 한국어.

How to get from Busan to Gyeongju by Train

To get to the main sights in Gyeongju from Busan by KTX, you will need to catch the KTX from Busan Station to Shin Gyeongju Station and then catch either of these buses (#50, #51, #60, #61, #332 or #700) into Gyeongju Bus Terminal. The KTX price will be about ₩11,000 one-way and it takes about 35 minutes. Tickets can be purchased from the KTX Website.

How to get from Busan to Gyeongju by Car

To drive from Busan to Gyeongju is very easy and doesn’t take long. It can be done in 1 hour and 10 minutes. Here is a link to the driving instructions.

To see the details of my trip to Gyeongju, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to Geoje 거제

The city is made up of a number of islands, of which by far the largest is Geoje Island. Oedo Island 외도 is a popular tourist attraction and that is due to Mr. Lee and his wife, Choi Ho Suk, who gradually created the entire garden. There is a lot to see in Geoje and if you have a car your trip will be a little easier.

If you aren’t one for traveling solo or prefer a bus tour from Busan, Klook has a well rounded bus tour from Busan to Geoje.

Geoje Tourist Map

What to Do in Geoje

Traveling to Geoje Island from Busan has never been easier with the introduction of the Busan-Geoje Bridge which has cut travel time down between the two cities. There are a lot of nice view points to be had and it makes for a great day trip or overnight trip if you want to take things a little slower.

Windy Hill

바람의 언덕

Oedo Island

외도

Gujora Beach

구조라해수욕장

Maengjongjuk Theme Park

거제맹종죽테마파크

Hakdong Pebble Beach

학동흑진주몽돌해변

Where to Stay in Geoje

If you have opted for the overnight trip to Geoje from Busan, you will want to make sure you choose the best located accommodation so you are not backtracking while traveling here.

Hotel Riviera Geoje – Click here for prices

Hotel Riviera offers a comfortable stay in Geoje with 2 in-house restaurants, a bar that offers a terrace with views of the ocean and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel is located right near Gujora Beach 구조라해수욕장 and not far from the other main sights which makes for a relaxing time spent in Geoje. Please note this place is about 50 minutes by bus from the Gohyeon Bus Terminal 고현버스터미널.

Oedo Palace – Click here for prices

Oedo Palace is located only a few minutes away from Hotel Riviera above and is closer to the few convenience stores in the area (GS25 and CU) which always come in handy when traveling in Korea. It includes a swimming pool and allows pets which is great for those that need something different. All units include a fully equipped kitchen and microwave which allows for some BBQ if you are interested.

Hotel Homefourest – Click here for prices

Hotel Homefourest is located just 30 minutes from the Gohyeon Bus Terminal 고현버스터미널 and is located very close to Mang-san 망산 Mountain which offers some spectacular views. There is a buffet breakfast available for around ₩8,000 which is great value for money. Another Hotel close to this one is the Geoje Jangseungpo Lighthouse Hotel which is also worth a look.

How to get from Busan to Geoje

How to get from Busan to Geoje by Bus

There are a few options for buses and it really depends on if you are staying the night in Geoje and/or what sights you plan on seeing. There is a bus from Busan West Bus Terminal to Gohyeon Bus Terminal (1 hour and 30 minutes) which is the main Bus Terminal and there is also an express bus route from Busan West Bus Terminal to Jangseungpo Intercity Bus Terminal (1 hour and 30 minutes).

The Jangseungpo Intercity Bus Terminal is a lot closer to the accommodation I listed above and the main attractions in Geoje. Both tickets cost around ₩8,000 as of writing this and you can simply buy the tickets upon arriving at Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal and right next to Sasang Subway Station 사상역 (I bought my tickets at the sales counter pictured above).

How to get from Busan to Geoje by Car

To drive from Busan to Geoje is very straight forward and doesn’t take long at all. It can be done in around 1 hour. Here is a link to the driving instructions.

To see the details of my trip to Geoje, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to Seoul 서울

If you are short on time and are wanting to do a day trip to Seoul, it can be easily done by KTX in about 2.5 hours. Seoul is the best and liveliest place in Korea at night. Whether it be restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs or other activities, Seoul is the place to be! Sinchon, Hongdae, Itaewon, Dongdaemun and Gangnam all boast a range of things to do at night and is the golden standard as such when it comes to going out in Korea.

Seoul Tourist Map

What to Do in Seoul

Gwangjang Market is a foodies get-a-way offering some of the best street food in Korea. Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the best ‘Welcome to Korea’ places to visit as it has a lot to offer. One of the best tours in Korea is the DMZ tour and although it is very unfortunate Korea was split into two countries, it is worth getting to know the history of Korea and there is no better way (maybe apart from the War Memorial of Korea) than traveling out to the border.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

경복궁

Myeongdong

명동

Hongdae

홍대

Namsan Tower/Seoul Tower

서울타워

Bukchon Hanok Village

북촌한옥마을

Insa-dong 인사동

Gwangjang Traditional Market

광장시장

Dongdaemun Market

동대문시장

Bukhansan National Park

북한산국립공원

Namdaemun Market

남대문시장

Yeouido Hangang Park

여의도한강공원

Garosu-gil Shopping Street

가로수길

All the things I have listed in the map above won’t be doable in a day or even two days however if you only pick a few them which you like it is still a lot of fun and a great day trip from Busan. Seoul has a lot of great neighborhoods which allow you to come back again and again and still have somewhere new to explore.

By the way, if you are planning on doing a day trip to Seoul in Winter, then you should check out this post by my friend Joel on Where to See Snow in Seoul & Korea.

Where to Stay in Seoul

Whenever I am in Seoul I try to stay in a different area then that of the last time I visited. One of the best things about Seoul is the never-ending amount of lively neighborhoods which tourists can stay and get a different experience compared to other areas. Whether it be Hongdae, Myeongdong, Itaewon, Sinchon or another great spot, you are bound to have a good time. Below are my favourite places to stay in Seoul.

57 Myeongdong Hostel – Click here for prices

This hotel is located just minutes away from the madness of Myeong-dong and is priced very well. If you aren’t looking to break the bank and need a comfortable stay, this is the place. Free breakfast and a small rooftop terrace to relax after a hard day of sightseeing and shopping.

L7 Hongdae by LOTTE – Click here for prices

Extremely good location within the Hongdae area and only a short walk to all the street stores Hongdae is known for. This places look expensive however rooms can be had for a great reasonable price which makes this a great value for money stay in Hongdae. Free rooftop pool (in the warmer months) and a 24-hour desk. Will be returning here the next time I’m in Seoul.

Best Western Premier Hotel Kukdo – Click here for prices

If you plan on doing some shopping at Dongdaemun Market and need a good rest, this hotel is a very good option. When I stayed here I really needed a good night sleep after shopping into the early hours at Dongdaemun Market. Everything was spot-on and I will be back the next time I am in Seoul. It is located close to two different subway lines allowing you to conveniently catch the subway to where you want to go without transferring lines all the time.

How to get from Busan to Seoul

How to get from Busan to Seoul by Train

To get from Busan to Seoul by KTX is very easy. Simply buy your tickets online from the official KTX website. The train takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes departing from Busan Station and arriving at Seoul Station. The cost is generally about ₩55,000 (occasionally there are discounts for certain trips depending on time and the type of train).

How to get from Busan to Seoul by Bus

Looking for a slightly cheaper option of getting to Seoul? Then a bus from Busan to Seoul can be bought for about ₩25,000 and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes (depending on which Bus Terminal you leave from). You can depart from either the Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal OR the Nopo Bus Terminal and they both arrive at the Seoul Express Bus Terminal 서울고속버스터미널 경부.

Click here to purchase tickets and see timetables. Please note: To change the language click on the drop-down in the top-right next to 한국어.



To see a detailed review of Where to Stay in Seoul, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to Festivals from Busan

There are a lot of great festivals quite close to Busan and if you are coming to Busan while one of these are happening then a day trip from Busan to a Korean festival is quite easy to do. There are numerous buses and trains available from Busan to reach Korean festivals like the Jinju Lantern Festival, Daegu Lantern Festival and the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival which is arguably the most famous Cherry Blossom Festival in Korea.

A Day Trip to the Jinju Lantern Festival

The Jinju Lantern Festival is located in Jinju Park and also covers the other side of the river as well (floating platforms make it easy to cross the river at multiple points). It is normally held in the first week and a half of October every year. It is arguably my favourite festival in Korea as the variety of lanterns are very impressive. It is also great for all ages which makes it a must-see festival in Korea. It is about 2.5 hours by express bus from Busan.

Once you are close enough to the festival it is impossible to miss and the amount of lanterns/lights on display is enough to catch your attention. It is very close to the Jinju Intercity Bus Terminal so you should be able to walk there if you catch the bus.

Where to Stay in Jinju

If you are coming to the Jinju Lantern Festival and wanting to stay the night, I would suggest staying somewhere close to both Jinju Park where the festival is held and the Jinju Intercity Bus Terminal 진주시외버스터미널. This will allow you to maximize your time here.

Guesthouse Jinju – Click here for prices

Guesthouse Jinju is the most centrally located and has great reviews. I stayed in this area when I first came to Jinju and literally walking 10 minutes from the bus terminal made the trip feel a little more convenient. Being so close to Jinju park also allows you to stay as late as you want without worrying about getting home. Breakfast is included in the rate and it also has free parking for those driving.

Another place worth taking a look at is the No.1 New Yorker Hotel as it also has a good reputation and is fairly close to both the Jinju Intercity Bus Terminal and Jinju Park.

How to get from Busan to Jinju

How to get from Busan to Jinju by Bus

There are departures every ten minutes from Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal and right next to Sasang Subway Station 사상역 for about ₩8,000. You can simply buy the tickets at the ticket counter.

Just make sure to check which bus terminal you will be arriving at as the Intercity Bus Terminal is centrally located within walking distance of Jinju Park while the Express Bus Terminal is located a bit further south, on the south side of the river.

How to get from Busan to Jinju by Car

To drive from Busan to Jinju is very straight forward and doesn’t take long at all. It can be done in around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here is a link to the driving instructions.

To see the details of my trip to the Jinju Lantern Festival, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to the Daegu Lantern Festival

The Daegu Dalgubeol Lantern Festival ( 대구 달구벌 등불 축제 ) is held to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday. The festival is usually held in late April every year. Many cities around Korea hold festivals to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday and the one in Daegu has become very popular over the years. It is held in Duryu Baseball Stadium which is located within Duryu Park (대구두류공원).

If you are wanting to release a lantern you will need to try to buy them online (we tried however they literally sold out in 2 minutes). If you don’t manage to get a ticket online, you will need to line up on the morning of the event to get a ticket (6000 free tickets, first come first served basis, after that you can’t enter). To get the tickets simply arrive at Duryu Park (대구두류공원) in morning just near the Baseball Stadium and line up (Exact position shown below). You can buy tickets from the official WEBSITE.

At about 1.30pm – 2pm you can enter the Baseball Stadium. At about 6.30pm – 7pm the event starts. Most people use the waiting time as an opportunity to have a picnic. I would recommend bringing some food/drinks into the venue. Delivery chicken, Cup noodles and Pizza can all be bought close by.

Where to Stay in Daegu

If you are thinking you would like to spend the night in Daegu rather than catch a late night bus or train home, then I would recommend staying at either the Bomogoro Guesthouse or Toyoko Inn Daegu Dongseongro. Both of these places are very centrally located allowing for excellent access in and out of Daegu.

Bomgoro Guesthouse – Click here for prices

Bomogoro Guesthouse is located on Subway Lines 1 and 2 which makes accessing the Daegu Dalgubeol Lantern Festival on Subway Line 2 easy as possible. Then when wanting to leave you can simply catch Subway Line 1 to Dong Daegu Station 동대구역 (of which the KTX takes you back to Busan). Not only is it conveniently located, it includes a free breakfast, is well reviewed and is very affordable. I would suggest booking in advance as you might find accommodation around the time of this festival to be in short supply.

Other options worth taking a look at are the Toyoko Inn Daegu Dongseongro which is also centrally located and the Daegu Aega 2nd which provides a more traditionally Korean stay in Daegu.

How to get from Busan to Daegu

How to get from Busan to Daegu by Bus

To get to Daegu from Busan by Bus, you will need to catch a bus from the Nopo Bus Terminal to Daegu which costs about ₩8,000 and takes 2 hours and 20 minutes. Click here to purchase tickets and see timetables. Please note: To change the language click on the drop-down in the top-right next to 한국어.

How to get from Busan to Daegu by Train

To get to Duryu Baseball Stadium in Daegu from Busan by KTX, you will need to catch the KTX from Busan Station to Dong Daegu Station and then catch the subway to Duryu Station 두류역 (transfer at Banwoldang Station 반월당역 onto Subway Line 2). Tickets can be purchased from the KTX Website.

How to get from Busan to Daegu by Car

To drive from Busan to Daegu is very easy and doesn’t take long (1 hour and 40 minutes). Parking may be limited so you might need to park on a side street or park at a local parking lot. Here is a link to the driving instructions.

To see the details of my trip to the Daegu Dalgubeol Lantern Festival, simply CLICK HERE

A Day Trip to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival or officially known as the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is the largest spring festival in Korea, attracting around 2 million visitors each year. It is normally held in the first week and a half of April every year. The festival originally began as a memorial service to commemorate Joseon period’s most well-known naval admiral Yi Sun-sin (the man mentioned alongside the Turtle Ship in Yeosu, at the start of this post). It has become one of the most visited festivals in Korea due to the amount of Cherry Blossoms that bloom there.

The main sights to see while at the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival are Yeojwacheon River and Gyeonghwa Train Station. Just wandering around these places should keep you occupied for the most part of the day. Make sure to take a break, enjoy the snacks and eat some much needed lunch. If you find yourself wanting to experience something else while here there are also cultural and military performances, so keep an eye out for them.

Where to Stay in Jinhae

As the festival lasts more than a week you may want to take your time and stay a night in Jinhae. If this is the case, then you will want to stay somewhere central which will allow you to walk around the streets and really take in the sheer amount of Cherry Blossoms that bloom in Jinhae.

Hotel On – Click here for prices

Hotel On is only a 10 minute bus ride away from the Jinhae Express/Intercity Bus Terminal, check the route here. It is located almost right in the middle of both of the main Cherry Blossom sights (Yeojwacheon River and Gyeonghwa Train Station) which is the perfect spot for exploring the festival. They offer both twin and single rooms and provide a modern feel throughout the hotel.

Another alternative to Hotel On is the French Code Hotel which is only a few blocks down and also provides a comfortable stay in Jinhae. So you might want to check out both and see which fits your needs better.

How to get from Busan to Jinhae

How to get from Busan to Jinhae by Bus

There are frequent departures from Seo-Busan (Sasang) which is called Busan West Bus Terminal and right next to Sasang Subway Station 사상역 for about ₩5,000. You can simply buy the tickets at the ticket counter. This will take you to the Jinhae Express/Intercity Bus Terminal shown in the map above. As this festival is very popular I would make sure you get there very early to make sure you get a ticket.

How to get from Busan to Jinhae by Car

If you plan on driving to Jinhae from Busan then I would plan on leaving quite early in the morning otherwise you will find yourself in some serious traffic (as I did the time I went by car). Jinhae is quite close so even with some traffic it should’t take too long. Here are the driving instructions.

To see the details of my trip to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, simply CLICK HERE

Need to a Sim Card while in South Korea? You can purchase them HERE.

Other Guides for South Korea

Maybe you want to skip the bigger cities and go for something a bit more relaxing like Jeju Island. Here is my detailed Jeju Island Travel Itinerary which was recommended to me by my brother-in-law who is a Jeju local.

If you’re coming to Busan then you will want to check out my detailed Busan Travel Itinerary which was created from my time living in Busan. During that time I had numerous visitors and therefore put together this article on the Best Areas to Stay in Busan. Not sure what to eat in Busan, then check out my 10 must eat restaurants in Busan.

Still deciding whether to base yourself in Seoul or Busan? You may want to check out my article (Seoul vs Busan) which compares the difference between Korea’s two largest cities.

The most important thing (for me at least) is the food. What should I eat in Korea? Here are the Korean foods I crave the most when someone mentions Korean food.

Attending a wedding in Korea? Or maybe you are planning a wedding in Korea? If so, you can see my guide about Getting Married in Korea for a lot of useful tips and information.

Lastly, if you want to know what other Korean festivals are close to Busan, then I can recommend the Busan Firework Festival and the Samgwangsa Temple Lantern Festival which are both held in Busan.

As always, should you have any questions or thoughts please feel free to leave a comment 🙂