West Travel Guide

This comprehensive guide to West in Busan, South Korea includes information on places to visit, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink, where to stay, local customs, and transportation options.


Introduction to West

West is a charming district located in the city of Busan in the South Gyeongsang Province of South Korea. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, historic landmarks, vibrant local culture, and delicious cuisine, West is a must-visit destination in the country.

Visitors can explore the district’s many hiking and biking trails and take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. They can also immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region through visits to museums and historical landmarks.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your trip to West, including top places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in West

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Geumjeongsanseong Fortress: This historic fortress, dating back to the early Joseon Dynasty, offers visitors a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural history. The fortress walls stretch over 17 kilometers and provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Beomeosa Temple: Founded in 678 AD, this famous temple is one of Korea’s most important Buddhist centers. Visitors can explore the temple’s impressive halls, pagodas, and Buddhist art and artifacts.

  • Taejongdae: Located on the southern tip of Yeongdo Island, this scenic park offers some of the best views of Busan’s coastline. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the park for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Geumjeongsan Mountain: This towering mountain offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. Visitors can choose from a variety of routes, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging.

  • Dadaepo Beach: This popular beach is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can rent sun umbrellas, swim, and play beach volleyball or just relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

  • Gwangan Bridge: This stunning bridge is one of Busan’s most iconic landmarks, spanning over 7 kilometers across the beach. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea from the bridge’s observation decks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

West is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking and biking trails to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Geumjeongsan Mountain: This is the ultimate hiking destination in Busan, with numerous trails to choose from. The most popular route is the Geumjeong Mountain Fortress Trail, a 4-hour hike that takes hikers through the heart of the fortress.

  • Yeongdo Bridge Trail: This easy, 4-kilometer trail offers stunning views of the Busan Harbor and the surrounding area. It’s a great option for families or casual hikers.

  • Dadaepo Sunset Cycling Road: This scenic 4-kilometer paved road runs along the coast and offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views in Busan. It’s a great option for cyclists of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

  • Busan City Tour: This guided tour takes visitors to some of West’s top attractions, including Geumjeongsan Mountain, Beomeosa Temple, and Taejongdae. The tour also includes lunch and transportation.

  • Dadaepo Beachwater Sports: Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment and enjoy the calm waters of Dadaepo Beach.

  • Busan Beer Tour: This beer tour takes visitors to some of Busan’s best breweries and includes tastings of local beers and snacks.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

Day 1: Arrive in West and check into your hotel. Visit Geumjeongsan Mountain and hike the Fortress Trail. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Visit Beomeosa Temple and explore the surrounding area. Take a break at a tea house and enjoy traditional Korean tea.

Day 3: Take a city tour of Busan, including a stop at Taejongdae. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Rent bikes and cycle along the Yeongdo Bridge Trail. Visit the Gwangan Bridge and enjoy sunset views.

Day 5: Relax on Dadaepo Beach and try some water sports.

Day 6: Join a Busan Beer Tour and visit some of the city’s best breweries.

Day 7: Explore the local markets and buy souvenirs to bring back home.

Food and Drink Scene of West

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ssiat Hotteok: A sweet Korean pancake filled with mixed nuts, seeds, and honey. It’s a popular snack in Busan and can be found on street food vendors.

  • Dwaeji Gukbap: A hearty pork soup with rice, vegetables, and chili pepper powder. This traditional Busan dish can be found in local restaurants.

  • Jagalchi Fish Market: The largest seafood market in Korea, there are many food stalls where visitors can try fresh, raw seafood, including raw fish, sashimi, and shellfish.

Local Beverages

  • Makgeolli: A traditional Korean rice wine, makgeolli is a popular drink in Busan. It’s sweet, slightly fizzy, and low in alcohol content.

  • Soju: This clear, distilled spirit is another popular Korean beverage. It’s usually served with meals and is quite strong, so be careful when drinking it.

  • Coffee: Busan has a thriving coffee scene, with many local cafes serving up delicious coffee drinks using high-quality Korean beans.

Where to Stay in West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in West, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the best options include:

  • The Westin Chosun: A luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views of the sea.

  • Homestay Korea: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in a traditional Korean hanok house.

  • Kimchee Busan Station Guesthouse: A popular hostel located near Busan Station, offering clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

What to Buy in West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Busan Fish Cakes: These savory snacks are a popular souvenir in Busan. They are made with minced fish, flour, and spices, and can be found in many local markets.

  • Korean Tea: South Korea is known for its high-quality teas, including green, black, and herbal varieties.

  • Hanbok: The traditional Korean dress is a popular item for visitors to bring back home. Hanboks can be found in many local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of West

When visiting West, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Remove your shoes: In many Korean homes, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering.

  • Bow when greeting: Korean culture places a great emphasis on respect and hierarchy, so it’s customary to bow when meeting someone older or in a position of authority.

  • Learn some basic Korean: While many Koreans speak English, learning some basic Korean phrases can go a long way in showing respect and building relationships.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of West

Do:

  • Try the local food: Busan is known for its delicious seafood dishes, so be sure to sample some of the local cuisine.

  • Explore the outdoors: West is home to many beautiful hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic beaches and parks.

  • Respect local customs: Koreans place a great value on respect and courtesy, so be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Be late: Koreans place a great emphasis on punctuality, so be sure to arrive on time for any scheduled events or appointments.

  • Miss out on public transportation: Public transportation in Busan is efficient and affordable, so take advantage of buses and trains to explore the city.

  • Disrespect historical landmarks: West is home to many important historical landmarks, so be sure to treat them with respect and care.

Safety and Health

Safety in West

Busan is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety, including:

  • Using common sense: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and be aware of your surroundings.

  • Taking care when hiking: Some hiking trails can be challenging, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and carry plenty of water and sunscreen.

Health in West

South Korea has a high-quality healthcare system, with many hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Visitors should:

  • Take precautions against COVID-19: Wear a mask and practice social distancing to keep yourself and others safe.

  • Bring any necessary medications: If you have any medical conditions or require specific medications, be sure to bring them with you on your trip.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West

The closest international airport to West is Gimhae International Airport, located about 30 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or train to Busan Station, and then transfer to another bus or subway to reach West.

Bus Stations Near West

The main bus terminal in Busan is Busan Central Bus Terminal, located in the city center. From there, visitors can take a local bus to West.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach West by train or taxi.

How to Get Around in West

The most convenient way to get around West is by bus or subway. Taxis are also available for shorter trips, but can be more expensive.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Busan is a great starting point for exploring other parts of South Korea. Here are a few destinations within easy reach of West:

  • Jinhae: This nearby town is famous for its cherry blossoms, which bloom in the spring.

  • Seoul: South Korea’s bustling capital is just a few hours away by train or bus.

  • Jeju Island: Known for its stunning natural scenery, Jeju Island is a popular destination for hiking, beaches, and outdoor adventure.

Conclusion

West is an enchanting destination in South Korea, offering a unique blend of history, culture, natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful region.