The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

For a bird's-eye view of Busan and the surrounding area, head for the mountain. Yongdusan, named "Dragon Head Hill" for its shape, rises 49 meters (161 feet) above sea level from downtown Busan. At the summit, Busan Tower rises to a height of 118 meters (or 387 feet if you're doing the math) above sea level for unforgettable views. In fact, you can see as far as Japan on a clear day. (For added impact to what you've just read, insert gong sound effect here.)

Other Fun Things to Do

Ancient Silla of Capital Gyeongju & Busan City Tour

Enjoy a scenic drive to Gyeongju, the capital of the Silla Dynasty designated by UNESCO as one of the world's 10 most historically significant sights. Your trip begins at Bulguksa Temple, originally constructed in 535 A.D. Continue on to Tumuli Park to view a collection of about 20 Royal Silla tombs. Visit the Flying Horse tomb. Drive to Yongdusan, Busan, for a photo stop and then visit the popular Jagalchi Fish Market. A Korean buffet lunch is included on this tour.

Busan City and Cultural Show Tour

Visit some of the most well-known places in Busan, including Yondusan Park, which is famous for its 120-meter Busan Tower that offers the best panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll through the Jgalchi fish market, Korea's largest seafood market, and observe the lifestyle of the Busan natives. The tour will also give you a peek into Korean traditional performing arts, music and dance. A stop will be made at Lotte Duty Free and the Gukje Market for shopping before returning to the ship.

Sporting Adventures

When the summer hits South Korea, the Koreans hit Busan's Haeundae Beach. Walk along the boardwalk, take out a jet ski, go windsurfing or weave your way through sun worshippers in search of seashells. If you visit during another time of year, you're still in luck. This popular sun spot is also a unique place to soak in therapeutic hot springs. Take a long, leisurely dip in the mineral baths and let their healing powers take over.

Local Flavor

If you're in search of seafood so fresh it still wiggles, you've come to the right place. Korea's largest fish market, Jagalchi Market, is located right next to Busan Harbor and keeps Busan's energetic tradition of preparing and selling fish going strong through the distinctive women who run it. You'd be hard-pressed to find any fresher place to try raw fish. After all, when in Korea, do as the Koreans do, right?

Shopping for Bargains

Sift through the wall-to-wall, alley-to-alley merchandise of the Gukje Market and you can pluck the deal of the century. Ease your way through stacks of clothing, silk, glasses, bags and shoes to find the treasure you're looking for at wholesale prices.

Currency

The Korean currency is the won (KRW). Looking for a 1,000-won note? Just ask for a Chon Won. Other denominations include 5,000 and 10,000, and coins are in denominations of 10, 50, 100 and 500 won.

Weather in Busan, Republic of Korea (South Korea)