Think you can survive the “Train to Busan”? Don’t worry—this guide takes you safely through Busan’s hotspots and Gyeongju’s ancient wonders, no zombies included.

Part2&3
Part 1 link here

Disclaimer: All views expressed on this blog are my own based on my own experiences and do not represent of any entity with which I have been, are now or will be affiliated.

December 25, 2024
Batangas, Philippines

Date of Trip – December 06-17
Busan and Gyeongju Trip– December 10-13

My itinerary for South Korea trip included the following locations based on provinces: First part Seoul, Gyeonggi-do (Suwon, Yongin and Hanam), Gangwon Province (Nami Island and Garden of the Morning Calm) 2nd part Busan, 3rd part Gyeongju, 4th part Jeju

Tucked along the southeastern coast of South Korea, Busan is much more than a coastal city — it’s a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage and modern charm. As the country’s second-largest city, Busan is the perfect destination for those looking to experience a lively urban atmosphere, stunning natural landscapes, gastronomic adventure and a deep sense of history. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, Busan’s welcoming ambiance and wide range of experiences make it one of the most unforgettable places to explore in Asia.

In contrast to Seoul’s fast-paced energy, Busan offers a laid-back, coastal vibe that encourages relaxation while still providing a wide variety of things to see and do. It’s a city that doesn’t just promise beauty and excitement — it delivers an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. I fell so deeply in love with Busan that I extended my stay because I simply couldn’t bear to leave. The unique blend of bustling city life and peaceful retreats makes Busan a destination that has something for everyone. Whenever work stress gets overwhelming, I know I can turn to this blog for inspiration, as I’m already looking forward to my next visit to Busan next year!

December 10, 2024 (Tuesday)
Day5

I received a notification that my 9 a.m. Airbnb tour in Busan had been canceled, and I felt a wave of relief. The night before, I had returned from a BBQ experience and was only able to get home at 1 a.m. and still had to pack my bags for my next trip to Busan. I was exhausted, so the cancellation was a welcome break — I was dreading having to wake up early to catch a train to Busan.

I didn’t book my KTX train from Seoul to Busan in advance online, which I’ll definitely do next time, you can book here in advance. When I arrived at Seoul Station by Uber around 10 a.m and went to buy my ticket, I was surprised to find that the earliest train available wasn’t until 1:30 p.m so I had quite a bit of waiting to do. I could’ve avoided that if I had booked my preferred time online in advance. Still, what I really love about taking the train instead of flying is how much more convenient it is. There’s no need to go through multiple layers of security or immigration checks, making the whole experience smoother and a lot less stressful.

Seoul Station via KTX Train

The Uber ride from Myeongdong to Seoul Station cost me 7,100 KRW, which is typical for a 15-minute journey. I opted for Uber because I was carrying a hefty 28kg suitcase and a 10kg backpack. Fortunately, when I arrived at Seoul Station, I was pleased to find it was very luggage-friendly. South Korea does an excellent job of making travel easy for pedestrians and tourists, with accessible stations that offer elevators, restaurants, waiting areas, and lockers.

I purchased my KTX bullet train ticket at the counter for 59,800 KRW (PHP2,399) one way. The next available train was at 1:49 p.m. KST, but I arrived at 10:00 a.m., so I decided to grab a bite at Lotteria. I tried their breakfast burger with an iced Americano for 22,000 KRW (PHP882), and I was genuinely impressed with how tasty the burger was. I had tried Lotteria in Vietnam before, but I didn’t like it then, so I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it in Seoul. It’s probably the best fast food burger I’ve ever had, and now I’m looking forward to going back every time. Afterward, I treated myself to an Auntie Anne’s pretzel for 10,000 KRW.

Whenever I say I’m boarding the “Train to Busan,” it reminds me of one of my favorite zombie films with the same title. It’s funny, though, because despite the movie’s name, the train didn’t pass by any of Busan’s famous landmarks, and it didn’t even reach Busan! But hey, I made it there safely, with not a single zombie in sight! Haha!

Things to Note:

1. KTX stations have multiple platforms, which are the raised walkways beside the train tracks where you board or exit the train. Each platform has a number, but your ticket won’t indicate which one to go to so it’s important to check the electronic departure boards. I almost confused the track number with the car number on my ticket, but thankfully I didn’t get on the wrong train. Overall, I found Seoul’s train stations well-designed, accessible, and easy to navigate.
2. The bullet train from Seoul to Busan takes about 3 hours to travel.
3. Once you arrive at Busan Station, there are taxis available, and you can also choose to take a train or bus. However, I opted for Uber. The Uber ride from Busan Station to Seomyeon cost around 9,000 KRW (374PHP) and took approximately 20 minutes by car.
4. In Busan, it felt like autumn with the beautiful foliage, but the weather had a touch of winter. The temperature was more bearable than in Seoul, ranging from 4 to 8 degrees Celsius when I arrived, and it became even chillier in the evenings.
5. Taking the KTX can be a bit tricky if you’re carrying large or heavy luggage. When you get off the train, there’s not only a small gap between the train and the platform but also a few steps down, which can be tough to manage with big bags. I struggled a little with mine, but thankfully, there were staff nearby who were ready to help passengers like me. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re packing heavy.

Accommodation

K Guesthouse Seomyeon
PHP 1,597.14 per night

I stayed in Seomyeon for the entire duration of my Busan trip, choosing a private single room. The location was perfect, just a short walk from Seomyeon Station and surrounded by plenty of restaurants, convenience stores, and shopping areas. The building also had an elevator, which made getting around easy. My bed and pillows were comfortable, the space was clean, and the bathroom was well-maintained. Just a heads-up, there are a few stairs (about 6 steps) before you reach the elevator, but it wasn’t an issue for me.

Kumsu Bokguk
27k KRW to 30K KRW

After checking in, I was starving, so I headed out for dinner. I visited Kumsu Bokguk in Haeundae District, the flagship location of a chain with multiple branches in both Seoul and Busan. This Michelin-Selected 24-hour fugu (puffer fish) restaurant has been a favorite among seafood lovers for over 50 years, since 1970. They specialize in puffer fish, offering four different types on the menu. Safety is their top priority, demonstrated by their team of licensed chefs, all trained to prepare puffer fish. I decided to try puffer fish, specifically the maeun-tang (a spicy soup made with pufferfish) seasoned with red chili paste, their bestseller. Thankfully, the staff at the restaurant were very helpful in showing me how to eat it or dip it in sauce for the first time. It was definitely a memorable experience — what a gastronomic adventure to try puffer fish for the first time in Busan! More video here

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is the most famous beach in Busan. The white sand beach is roughly 1.5 kilometers long, over a 30- to 50-meter wide area, creating a beautiful coastline before a shallow bay, making it perfect for swimming. After a sumptuous meal I decided to take a walk at the Haeundae beach. Since it’s already night time, I only saw the lights from the beach and buildings across it but not the beach itself which I plan to visit next time during sunny days and probably stay in the area longer. More video here

Haeundae Market

After a stroll along the beach, I couldn’t resist eating again, haha, so I headed to Haeundae Market. This popular traditional market is conveniently located near Haeundae Beach, just off an alley next to the Seacloud Hotel in Busan. The market offers a wide variety of things to see and buy, with many stalls specializing in tasty takeaway items. I tried their honey and cheese hotteok (2.5k KRW), which was absolutely delicious, and also enjoyed some honey milk ice cream (5k KRW). It was an unforgettable night exploring the night market and trying hotteok, one of my favorite traditional Korean snacks. More video here!

I headed back to my accommodation and got some rest for the activities planned the next day. I had an absolute lovely day today.

December 11, 2024 (Wednesday)
Day6
Gyeongju-si

Gyeongju, today nicknamed the Golden City, was the capital of the ancient Korean empire of Silla from 57 BC to 935 AD. Located in southeastern South Korea, the city is rich in history, with many ancient remains, including temples, pagodas, and royal tombs. Notable sites include Seokguram, an 8th-century grotto shrine, and Bulguk Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Gyeongju also houses a national museum with treasures from the Silla Kingdom. With its cultural significance, Gyeongju is a major tourist destination.

I booked a trip to Gyeongju through Klook, and it turned out to be an unexpectedly amazing experience! I learned so much more about South Korea’s rich history, and I was particularly fascinated by the royal tombs and the incredible craftsmanship that went into their construction. The historical sites left such a strong impression on me that I’m already thinking about returning to explore even more of this captivating area. I had an absolute blast during my visit, and the best part was meeting so many friendly people along the way. It truly made the experience even more memorable! More video of the whole trip here

Klook here
PHP1753 or 44k KRW

Itinerary
1. Bulguksa Temple
2. Gyochon Traditional Village
3. Woljeong Bridge
4.Daereungwon Royal Tomb
5. Hwangnidan-Gil
6. Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond

Food Spot:
1. Gohasoon in Seomyeon

I met our guide, Rosey, at Seomyeon Subway Station Exit 12 at 9:40 am, and we picked up the rest of the group at Busan Station. Rosey was incredibly friendly and did a great job explaining all the important details of the trip, which I really appreciated. I learned a lot from her, and since there were only a few of us on the coaster, it felt like a small, intimate group, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Bulguksa Temple

Bulguksa Temple, located in Gyeongju, South Korea, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the country’s most significant Buddhist temples. Built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty, it showcases stunning ancient architecture, including intricate stone pagodas and sculptures. The temple’s main hall, Daeungjeon, houses a golden Buddha statue, while the iconic Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas represent Buddhist principles. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Toham, Bulguksa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

We also had lunch at a nearby restaurant, where I ordered bulgogi and fish for a total of 17,000 KRW. Afterward, I picked up a cheese coin, originally from Gyeongju, for 3,500 KRW (around 10 dollars).

Gyochon Traditional Village

The village offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience traditional Korean life. Known for its well-preserved hanok homes, Gyochon reflects the culture, architecture, and lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty. I especially prefer the hanok houses in Gyochon over those in Seoul.

Famous for its beautiful homes, narrow lanes, and scenic surroundings, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. Visitors can explore the traditional houses, enjoy cultural performances, and sample local dishes. Gyochon is also linked to the famous Confucian scholar from the Gyeongju Kim family, often regarded as a living museum that showcases South Korea’s rich heritage. More video here.

Woljeong Bridge

We visited Woljeong Bridge both in the afternoon and at night, allowing us to see its changing beauty throughout the day. Woljeong Bridge is a historically important structure dating back to the Silla Dynasty. Originally built in the 6th century, the bridge has undergone several reconstructions, with the current version standing as a stunning example of traditional Korean architecture.

Spanning the scenic Anapji Pond, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially when illuminated at night. Known for its graceful design, Woljeong Bridge features a traditional wooden structure and elegant arches that reflect the architectural style of its time.

Daereungwon Royal Tomb

Daereungwon Royal Tomb is one of the largest and most important tomb complexes from the Silla Dynasty. The site contains several burial mounds that house the tombs of prominent figures, including kings and queens of the ancient Silla Kingdom.

The tombs are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere that contrasts with the grandeur of the tombs themselves. I explored the site and learn about the rich history of the Silla Kingdom, and even entered one of the tombs to see artifacts and relics found inside. I love this place so much.

Hwangnidan-Gil

Just outside the royal tomb is Hwangnidan-Gil. It is a charming street that beautifully blends traditional Korean architecture with modern trends. The name “Hwangnidan-Gil” comes from the Hwangnam area, historically known for its cultural significance, and “Gil,” meaning street in Korean.

The street is lined with a variety of unique shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques housed in traditional hanok-style buildings. As you stroll down the cobbled paths, you’ll find a mix of the old and the new – from artisan stores selling handcrafted goods to trendy cafes where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.

At Hwangnidan-Gil, I was amazed to see a robot managing a coffee shop, which was a fun and futuristic experience! I also tried a traditional snack that I initially thought were fries, but when I bit into it, I realized it was chewy. After asking Rosey, I learned that it was actually made from corn. The snack is called Okdum, a popular traditional Korean treat made from corn. Although I wasn’t a big fan of it, I enjoyed the experience of trying it. It’s likely an acquired taste. I also stopped by one of the local coffee shops and had a cup of coffee, which was a nice treat during my stroll.

Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond

Our 2nd final stop before going back to the Woljeong bridge. Donggung Palace was once the secondary palace of the Silla Dynasty’s royal family. Built in the 7th century, it served as the residence for the crown prince and played a key role in the kingdom’s political and cultural life. Though much of the original palace structure is no longer standing, the site still offers a fascinating look into Korea’s ancient royal history.

Adjacent to the palace is Wolji Pond (formerly known as Anapji Pond), a stunning artificial pond that was constructed during the reign of King Munmu in the 7th century. The pond is beautifully landscaped with pavilions, bridges, and lush gardens, making it a peaceful and scenic spot. At night, the area is illuminated, providing a magical atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll.

I had an amazing time on this history and cultural tour with Rosey. It was such a fun experience, and I also made new friends, Hox and Sabrina, who joined me for dinner after the tour.

I realized I didn’t take any photos with the people I met in Seoul and surrounding areas, lol. Hopefully, next time but I stay connected with them! 🙂

Gohasoon
21.5k KRW/person for a group of 3

We had a delightful Korean pork BBQ dinner at Gohasoon near Seomyeon station and my hostel, a restaurant recommended by Rosey. Luckily, I was dining with Hox and Sabrina, so we could share the meal. The restaurant has a minimum order of two, so we ordered pork belly and ribs, along with pork rinds and highballs to complement our meal. As always, the pork was incredible—so flavorful that it didn’t need any dipping sauce. I also love the highball! The staff even cooks the meat for you, which made the experience even better. Wrapping the pork in fresh lettuce was the perfect touch. I absolutely loved everything about this place! Video here

December 12, 2024 (Thursday)
Day7
Busan

Before meeting my now-chingu Joe for our Busan tour at Lotte Department Store, located at the Aqua Mall entrance near the Converse store in Nampo Station, I stopped by Ssangttede Bakery and Cafe for breakfast. I tried their iced coffee and salt bread, which is made with 100% Korean rice and contains no preservatives, offering a truly wholesome taste of Korea. It was a delightful breakfast experience!

Airbnb experience of Real Busan tour here. This tour was, without a doubt, the best I’ve ever experienced. There were only three of us on the tour, including Joe, so it felt like we were just exploring Busan with friends. Joe was incredible, helping us see the beauty of Busan and its people from a unique perspective. Plus, he takes really amazing photos. I loved this tour so much that it became one of the main reasons I want to return to South Korea, especially Busan. I made new friends and had such a fun time that I decided to extend my stay to explore more of the city. I absolutely fell in love with Busan, and I have Joe to thank for that. My chingu, if you’re reading this, find me oppa, araso? Haha! I’ll definitely would book this tour with him again and explore other parts of Busan. You can also follow him on his Instagram here

Itinerary:
1. Yeongdo Bridge
2.Namhang Market and Bongnae Market
3. Huinnyeoul Culture Village
4. Gamcheon Culture Village

Food Spot:
1. Chosun Korean Beef Busan Nampo

Yeongdo Bridge

Yeongdodaegyo Bridge is a significant historical site in Busan, where refugees gathered during the Korean War in search of hope. As a landmark of the city, Yeongdo Bridge became the central meeting point for those who had been separated, offering a sense of unity and connection during a time of great hardship.

We then went for lunch and tried bossam (thinly sliced Korean boiled pork belly (suyuk) wrapped in leaves and served with various condiments), makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine that is milky, slightly sparkling, and cloudy), and learned about the history of these dishes and how South Koreans enjoy them. Although I can’t recall the name of the restaurant, the food was incredibly delicious. I ended up learning a lot just by experiencing their authentic Korean cuisine. Video here.

Namhang Market and Bongnae Market

Afterward, we visited the market and tried hotteok, a popular Korean street snack. It was absolutely delicious! As we explored the market, I noticed that it was mostly older people who seemed to frequent the area, with fewer younger individuals around. The market had such a charming, traditional vibe, and I was impressed by how clean and well-organized it was. This stood out to me, especially when compared to markets in the Philippines, which tend to be more crowded and less maintained. The cleanliness and orderliness of the market in Korea made the experience even more enjoyable. Video here

Huinnyeoul Culture Village

Huinnyeoul Cultural Village is a lively cultural community in the heart of Busan. Situated along Huinnyeoul-gil in the city’s historic downtown, the village gets its name from the winding stream that flows through the area, which is said to resemble white snowfall at the foot of Bongnaesan Mountain, creating a peaceful and magical atmosphere.

In December 2011, the village underwent a transformation, with old houses being renovated into an artistic hub. Now, it’s a blend of history and modern creativity, showcasing the vibrant energy of Yeongdo. Visitors can explore narrow streets lined with colorful murals, art galleries, charming cafes, and small shops, offering a taste of local culture. The village is a peaceful, hidden gem, perfect for experiencing Busan’s artistic side.

I absolutely loved this place, and we ended our visit with a coffee overlooking the sea at Coffee Mimi and also I bought souvenirs! It was a wonderful experience!

Along the way, we tried to make ramyeon in unmanned store which was a fun experience! There were a lot of unmanned stores in this area. Video here

Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village, also known as the “Santorini of South Korea” or “Busan’s Santorini,” is a beautiful hillside village famous for its colorful terraced houses that climb up the mountainside.

The streets are a maze of narrow alleyways, winding staircases, and cobblestone paths, each turn revealing hidden gems like murals, sculptures, and quirky art. The walls of houses and buildings are covered in vibrant artwork, making the village feel like an open-air gallery. Visitors can take their time wandering through the charming streets while enjoying stunning views of the city and sea.

Gamcheon Culture Village is not only a visual treat but also a symbol of the local community’s resilience and creativity. Once a poor hillside settlement, it was transformed into an art hub by local artists and residents, blending traditional Korean homes with modern art to create a unique and inspiring place.

I loved visiting at night, as it gave me a different view of the village. I also enjoyed the post office there, where I wrote postcards to my brother and my two dogs—though I realized later that the post office in the Philippines might not be the most efficient, so the postcards might never make it home, haha!

Chosun Korean Beef Busan Nampo

Joe dropped us off at a Korean barbecue restaurant renowned for serving Hanwoo beef, and I was beyond excited to finally try it! Hanwoo is a breed of cattle native to Korea, known for its premium quality meat. We went for the 1++ Hanwoo, which is considered the Korean equivalent of A5 Wagyu. We had the aged flame-grilled sirloin, and let me tell you, it was absolutely amazing! The beef was incredibly tender, full of rich flavor, and cooked to perfection. They prepare it right on the grill, and then torch it to add a smoky finish – it was pure culinary bliss. This is definitely a must-try dish in South Korea! I can’t recommend it enough; it was an unforgettable experience. More video here.

Spaland Centum City
9:00am-23:00
Last admission: 22:00
Night ticket beyond 7:00pm – 14k KRW


I had to try jjimjilbang in Busan. A jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean bathhouse and sauna that offers a unique and rejuvenating experience, combining various hot and cold saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. It’s a popular cultural practice in Korea, providing a space where people can unwind, socialize, and focus on their health and well-being.

Spaland is a premium spa and wellness center located in the heart of Busan, South Korea, within the expansive Shinsegae Centum City complex—the largest department store in the world. This luxurious spa combines the best of modern wellness facilities with the rich traditions of Korean bathing culture, providing a holistic and rejuvenating experience. Spaland spans across three floors, each offering a variety of services designed to relax, refresh, and revitalize visitors.

The spa features an impressive range of amenities, including hot and cold baths, saunas, steam rooms, and tranquil relaxation areas, making it the perfect place to unwind. I had the chance to enjoy multiple therapeutic hot spring baths, each with its own unique benefits, as well as cold baths for refreshing contrast. The saunas and steam rooms, with their soothing heat, helped to detoxify my body and clear my mind.

I felt like time was slipping away quickly since I arrived around 9:00 pm and only had two hours to spare. I enjoyed the spa so much that I wished I could stay and even sleep there. It was clear to me that I would have to come back.

Things to Note:

1. Standard entry time is 4 hours (or 6 hours if spending over 10,000 won inside Spa Land). An additional charge of 3,000 won per hour applies thereafter.
2. No cash is needed inside Spa Land. Use the electronic key-wristband as an e-wallet and pay at the counter when exiting.
3. Please shower before entering the hot spring baths. Shampoo, body wash, and hair conditioner are provided in the bath area.
4. Taking photo and video are not permitted in the female/male changing area
5. Female and male shower/bath area are separate
6. Video of the experience here.
7. If you choose a facial spa and massage, an additional 2 hours will be added to your 4-hour jjimjilbang experience.

Spa Procedures:

1. Pay for admission and receive a number ticket.
2. Store your shoes in the shoe locker that matches your ticket number, and take the electronic key-wristband from the locker.
3. At the counter, you’ll receive two small towels and spa clothing (shirt & shorts).
4. Find the locker with the same number as your key-wristband and store your belongings inside.
5. Tap the electronic key-wristband at the gate to enter the spa.

December 13, 2024 (Friday)
Day8

I had originally booked my flight to Jeju for 1:00 pm, but I decided to reschedule it to December 14 (Saturday) at 6:00 am instead. I loved Busan so much, especially the jjimjilbang, and knew I needed to stay a little longer.

Itinerary
1. Haeundae Blueline Park 
2. Spaland

Food spots
1. Jayeondo Salt bread
2. Songjeong 3rd generation Rice Soup
3. Bakery somewhere in Seomyeon

Haeundae Blueline Park 

Haeundae Blueline Park is a stunning eco-friendly redevelopment of the former Donghae Nambu Line railroad, stretching 4.8 kilometers from Haeundae’s Mipo to Cheongsapo and Songjeong. This scenic park offers two main attractions: the Haeundae Beach Train and the Haeundae Sky Capsule. The Haeundae Beach Train is a sightseeing train that doubles as a transportation option, taking passengers on a round-trip journey from Mipo to Songjeong via Cheongsapo, offering breathtaking views of East Busan’s coastline. The Haeundae Sky Capsule, on the other hand, is a romantic four-seater automated capsule train that glides 7 to 10 meters above sea level for a 2-kilometer stretch between Mipo and Cheongsapo, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning coastal views in a peaceful, elevated ride. Both experiences combine convenience and beauty, making Haeundae Blueline Park a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

I took this route, and it was truly beautiful and relaxing, with stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area. Next time, I might explore other routes or even opt to walk since it’s also an option.

In Cheongsapo, there are cafes and souvenir shops where I picked up a few mementos and snapped a photo in the Sky Capsule. I also tried yakgwa, a traditional Korean honey cookie that’s deep-fried and coated in sweet syrup, paired with ice cream.

Things to Keep in Mind:

1. It’s recommended to book in advance. When I visited, I arrived at opening time and was given an 11 AM ticket for the Sky Capsule and a 1 PM ticket for the Beach Train. More info of routes here
2. You can pay via card. Fare for beach train ride here and skycapsule here
3. Video here

Jayeondo Salt bread
A pack of 4 breads costs 25k KRW.

Jayeondo Salt Bread is a popular bakery known for its unique salt bread, which combines a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. The subtle saltiness enhances the bread’s natural flavors, making it perfect on its own or with various toppings. The bakery offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere, adding to the overall delightful experience.

Just across from Haeundae Blueline Park, I stumbled upon a charming bakery where I had the perfect time to kill before my skycapsule ride. I decided to try their famous salt bread, and let me tell you, it was an absolute game-changer! Although I had mistakenly grabbed a coffee to-go from Mega Coffee nearby (only to find out I couldn’t sit at the bakery’s alfresco seating with outside food), I made the best of it and enjoyed my treat at the park instead. To my surprise, the salt bread was hands down the best bread I’ve ever had! Soft and fluffy on the inside with just the right amount of crispiness outside, every bite was pure bliss. I couldn’t stop myself—I ended up eating four in one sitting! If you’re ever in Busan or anywhere in South Korea, this bakery is an absolute must-visit! Video here.

Spaland Centum City
9:00am-23:00
Last admission: 22:00
23k KRW entrance fee normal hours
235k KRW facial spa + massage

After an exciting day at Haeundae Blueline Park, I couldn’t resist heading back to Spaland for another jjimjilbang experience. Honestly, this spa is incredibly addictive! I enjoyed every minute of my time there. This time, I treated myself to a massage and facial spa, which were a bit on the pricey side, but absolutely worth it. The facial spa was so relaxing that I actually fell asleep during the session—it’s that good!

I absolutely love the jjimjilbang experience here, especially the different themed rooms. My favorites are the charcoal room, yellow orcher room, Bulgama and the salt room. Each one offers a unique atmosphere and health benefits, and I swear I could stay there forever. They even have a nail spa, though it operates during limited hours, so be sure to check the schedule if you’re interested.

One of the highlights of my visit was the snack bar, where I had a refreshing bowl of sikhye, a traditional Korean drink made from fermented rice and malt barley. It’s sweet, non-alcoholic, and so cooling—perfect for relaxing after the sauna. I ended up having three servings because it was so delicious!

I also had fun trying on their sheep jjimjilbang headgear, which is part of the spa experience. They provide easy instructions on how to wear it, and it adds a bit of playful fun to your visit.

Spaland is truly a must-visit when you’re in Busan. The relaxing atmosphere, diverse spa offerings, and little surprises like the sikhye and headgear make it a unique experience that I will definitely be repeating!

Songjeong 3rd generation Rice Soup
25k KRW
Open 24 hours

Songjeong has perfected its three signature types of gukbap—pork slices, blood sausage, and intestines—over three generations. As a solo traveler, I particularly appreciated that they offer individual servings, making it easy to enjoy the meal on my own. Daeji gukbap, a traditional Korean soup made with pork, bone broth, rice, and other ingredients, is especially popular in Busan. The name translates to “pork, soup, rice.” I absolutely loved it! The dish was incredibly flavorful, and the fact that it was so close to my hostel made the experience even better. It was a real treat to try this Busan delicacy!

After finishing my meal, I stumbled upon a bakery selling red bean donuts, and they were absolutely delicious for just 2.5k KRW.

I had an unforgettable time in Busan! This trip was truly one for the books and will always hold a special place in my heart. From the vibrant culture to the delicious food and breathtaking sights, every moment was a new adventure. It’s undoubtedly one of the most incredible trips I’ve ever had, and the memories I made will stay with me forever. I can’t wait to return and explore even more of this beautiful city!

Next blog is Jeju

Love,
Maria, sometimes, Niskie