Things to Do in South Korea

Do you want to spend your holiday in South Korea but don’t know about which tourist destination to visit? Don’t worry! Here are the sixty most exciting tourist destinations across the provinces in South Korea. To make this list of tourist destinations in Korea more complete, the variety of tourist destinations such as culinary, shopping, cultural, historical, and natural destinations are included in the list.

1. Myeong-dong

Myeong-dong is a district in Seoul known as a shopping heaven. There are many branded shops and department stores in the area. Unlike Namdaemun and Dongdaemun, there are many designer apparels sold here. Some notable department stores also open their branch here such as Migliore, Noon Square, and M Plaza. The products offered are premium quality but with more bargain.

Also in this area, there are many family restaurants and fast foods stores serving Korean, Western, and Japanese cuisines. Many restaurants have noodle and pork.

Location: Myengdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Depending on each store

Transportation: Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Seoul Subway Jalur 2), Exits 5, 6, 7. Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exits 5, 6, 7, 8.

2. Bukhansan National Park (Seoul)

Bukhasan National Park consists of Mount Bukasan and Dobongsan with a total area of 80,699 km. The summits are called Baegundae (836.5m), Insubong (810.5m), and Mangyeongdae (799.5m), which make the mount get a nickname "Samgaksan" (mount with three antlers).

In this national park, there is Bukhansanseong Fortress with 7m height and 8 km length. There are 15 doors and 120 rooms in the fortress which were used as the king’s castle during an emergency.

The old architecture meets the beauty of Bukhansan’s granite panorama here. You can walk leisurely along the fortress wall. During the fall, the tree leaves' color change which makes the area look even more magnificent.

Location: Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gangbuk-gu, Seongbuk-gu, Goyang-si

Opening times: Everyday

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Gireum Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 3. Bus 110B or 143

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine surround Bukchon Hanok Village. Joseon’s hanok or traditional houses are still in this area today. They have been transformed into a cultural center, hotel, restaurant, and tea house which give the tourists an experience of living in traditional Korean environment.

Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Everyday

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Anguk Station → Bukchon Culture Center → Gahoe-dong 11beonji → Hansangsu Embroidery Workshop → Gahoe Folk Drawing Shop → Bukchon Museum 'Old Fragrance' → Anguk-dong house of Yun Boseonga → Anguk Station.

4. Lotte World

Located in the heart of Seoul, Lotte World is an exciting destination. This place has many rides, ice skating rink, parades, museum, and lake. The area is divided into an indoor park and outdoor Magic Island near Seokchonhose Lake. Lotte World represents the culture of many countries, reflected through its facilities and souvenirs.

Location: 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Everyday 09.30am-10 pm

Ticket: 52,000 won (adult)/45,000 won (teen)/ 41,000 won (child)/ 13,000 won (infant) Transportation: Jamsil Station (Seoul Subway line 2, 8), Exit 4

5. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the biggest and most beautiful palace in its palace complex. It’s in the north area of the complex, near the Changdeokgung (east palace) and Gyeonghuigung (west palace).

In Gyeongbokgung Palace, there is Gwanghwamun Gate to welcome the visitors. Inside, there is Gwanghwamun Square with its main square (Haechi Madang), Admiral Yi Sun-shin Fountain, and King Sejong statue.

Location: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: November-February 9am-5pm

 March-May/September-October 9am-6pm

 June-August 9am-6.30pm

Transportation: Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway line 3), Exit 5

Anguk Station (Seoul Subway line 3), Exit 1

6. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon

Changdeokgung Palace is a well-maintained palace built during Joseon era in 1405. The palace consists of a public area, royal family residence, and backyard garden. The garden was the relaxation area of the king. There is a 300 years old tree, pond, and pavilion here.

The garden is conserved; visitors aren’t allowed to touch. The perfect time to visit this garden is during the autumn when the leaves start falling.

Location: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Closed every Monday

February-May/September-October 9am-6pm

June-August 9am-6.30pm

November-January 9am-5.30pm

Entrance ticket: 3,000 won (adult); free (under 24 years old)

Transportation: Subway Anguk Station (Seoul Subway line 3), Exit 3

7. Changgyeonggung Palace

It’s a Joseon Dynasty palace located in the center of Seoul. In the entrance, the Honghwa Gate, you will see the Okcheongyo Bridge. Across it, there is the Myeongheongmun Gate, from which you can see the statues of prominent Korean figures.

Besides Myeongjeongjeon, there is Sungmundang building which the roof looks like a mountain slope. Myeongjeongjeon and Munjeongjeon look beautiful together because of the combination of their high and low roofs.

Location: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: February-May/September-October 9am-6pm

June-August 9am-6.30pm

November-January 9am-5.30pm

Entrance ticket: 1,000won (individual) or 800 won (each person in a group) Transportation: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway line 3), Exit 3

 
 

8. Hongdae (Hongik University Street)

Hongdae is known among young people because it isn’t only a romantic place but also a free area to express their creativity. Here, there are unique cafes, gallery, accessories and fashion stores, clubs, live café, art market, and restaurants with delicious foods which make the area popular as a hangout destination.

What attracts more people is the busking and festivals often held in the area. The streets you must visit here are Atelier’s Street, Picasso’s Street, and Club Street, with the main area is around Hongik University.

Location: Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Everyday

Transportation: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 3

9. Dongdaemun Shopping Complex

Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is one of the most popular markets in Korea. Operated since 1970, it's also one of the biggest markets in Asia. If you walk around the complex, you can find any garment and the newest fashion item.

The area is considered as the shopping heaven, in which you can buy any apparels and accessories including those for renowned world designers, home interior products, and wedding goods.

Location: 266, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Closed every Sunday

Garments 8am-6pm

Accessories 9.30 am-7pm

Home interior and wedding 7am-6pm

Food court 7am-7pm

10. Insa-dong

Insa-dong, in the center of Seoul, is known for its displayed antiques. Here, there is one main street with the alleys on each side. In these alleys, more than 100 galleries are displaying Korean traditional arts, restaurants, tea houses, and cafes.

Hakgojae Gallery is the most well-known as the center of people's art, while Seni Gana Gallery promotes the artworks from Gana. Despite the antiquity, the area is perfect for visitors regardless of their age because each store or gallery here has its uniqueness.

Location: 62, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Transportation: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 6

Jonggak Station (Seoul Subway line 1), Exit 3

11. Itaewon Special Tourist Zone

Itaewon, one of the tourist destinations in Korea was the first among five special zones for tourist built in 1997. It's a multicultural area in which more than 20,000 expatriates live.

The area has become a popular tourist destination. Unique clothing and accessory design are very well-known here. The streets are special for entertainment and holiday, while the roadside is filled with shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, and clubs. The number of stores here are more than 2,200. Some of them sell antique furniture.

Itaewon during the night is a center of night entertainment with a high number of visitors. Those visitors can hold a party, go clubbing, and enjoy worldwide cuisines in the World Food Street. There are forty foreigner-owned restaurants in this street.

Location: Hannam-dong and Itaewon-dong in Seoul

Transportation: Itaewon Station/Noksapyeong Station/Hangangjin Station (Seoul Subway Line 6)

12. Namsan Seoul Tower

Namsan Seoul Tower, standing in the 243-meters Mountain Namsan, is the first tower tourist destination in Korea. The height of the tower is 236.7 m and is one of the tallest towers in Asia. Namsan Seoul Tower is opened to the public in 2005 and has become an icon of Seoul. There is also a Seoul Tower Plaza which has been opened to the public after forty years.

Location: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Ticket price: Observatory/Sentory Museum 10,000 won (adult); 8,000 won (child)

Hello Kitty Island 8,000 won (adult); 7,000 won (child)

Opening times: Sunday-Friday 10am-11pm; Saturday 10am-12pm

Transportation: Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 02: Chungmuro Station, Exit 2

Dongguk University Station Exit 6
 

13. Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is a national market as well as a popular tourist destination. The second floor of the market is the biggest and most popular seller of bed sheets made from satin, silk, and linen.

Many stores produce their products, therefore: the prices are more affordable here. The products aren't a well-known brand, but the quality is good. It's what makes people visiting the market.

Location: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening times: Store 8am-6pm; Restaurant 8.30am-11pm

Transportation: Jongno 5-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 8
 Euljiro 4-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2 dan 5), Exit 4

14. Incheon Chinatown

Incheon Chinatown was developed since the opening of Incheon Port in 1883. At the time, it was the area to sell imported Chinese goods, but now it consists of mostly Chinese restaurants. The current Chinese-Koreans in the area are mostly the second or third generation of Chinese in the country, but they still show the culture of their ancestor.

Location: Seollin-dong / Bukseong-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon-si

Transportation: Incheon Station (Seoul Subway Line 1)

 

15. Songwol-dong Fairytale Village

Due to the opening of Incheon Port in 1883, there were many foreigners settled around the port. It eventually led the area to become a richer city which attracted people from the rural area to move to Incheon. The renovation of Incheon area was then undertaken, with a part of it was designed with classical fairytale theme paintings. This area is what now known as Sangwol-dong Fairytale Village.

Location: 38, Donghwamaeul-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon

Ticket: free

Transportation: Incheon Station (Seoul Subway Line 1) and Exit 2

16. Songdo Central Park

Central Park is a beach park in international town Sangdo; it is the green heaven in between the skyscrapers of the city. You can try to ride a water taxi or walk along the footpath on the meadow here.

Location: 196, Techno Park-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Central Park Station (Incheon Subway Line 1)

17. Everland

Throughout the year, the Everland Resort offers a variety of rides and festivals such as Global Fair, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. While the popular festivals include the Tulip Festival, Rose Festival, Summer Splash, and Halloween Festival.

The most popular rides are the wooden roller coaster T-Express and the 15,000-meters square Zootopia. The latter has 2,000 animals from 201 species. There is also popular Lost Valley, the area which has the biggest ecology in the park and offers a safari experience. You can also ride an amphibian car to tour the Lost Valley and see the animals here, including a couple of pandas.

Location: 199, Everland-ro, Pogok-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si

Opening hours: 10am-10pm

One-day Ticket: 52,000 won (adult); 44,000 won(teen); 41,000 won (child)
Transportation: Gyeonggi-do Jeondae-Everland Station (Yongin Ever Line), Exit 3

18. The Garden of Morning Calm

The 30,000-meter square Garden of Morning Calm is a tourist destination for a family, couple, and those loving photography. It is the biggest private-owned park in Korea. It has the artistic rooms combining the concept of Korea natural curve with symmetric and asymmetric plant arrangement. There is also a grass footpath which connects twenty different areas of the garden.

The Sukgeun Garden was designed to look like the Korean Peninsula. The pretty and colorful flowers here symbolize the hope for peace on the peninsula. There are around 5,000 flora species here, including 300 varieties from the Holy Mountain Baekdusan.

Location: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

Opening times: 8.30am-at dusk

Ticket: 9,000 won (adult); 6,500 won (child) during weekend

8,000 won (adult); 6,000 won (child) during weekday
Transportation: Cheongpyeong Station (Gyeonchun Line), Exit 1

19. Korean Folk Village

Korean Folk Village introduces the Korea traditional culture from Joseon period to local and international tourists through the lecture, clothes, dance, and others. In the village, there are unique areas such as farmland, classic houses, administrative office, Confucian school, village school (seodang), village street, workshop, and the royal residence.

The performance of farmer's music (nongak), traditional wedding, and special event are usually held during the spring. Visitors can also eat Korean cuisines such as jeungpyeon, injeolmi, bukeo-gui, pajeon, and dongdongju.

Location: 90 Minsokchon-ro, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Ticket price: 15.000 won (adult); 12.000 won (teen)/ 10.000 won (child); group discount is applicable

20. Hantangang River Resort

Hantangang River is filled with volcanic perforated stones locally known as gombo. The holes on the surface of the stone are the air trapped in lava with high cooling rates. It happened during the eruption. What makes this river popular as a tourist destination is the magnificent scenery and recreation park.

Location: 76, Seonsa-ro, Jeongok-eup, Yeoncheon-gun, Gyeonggi-do

Transportation: Route to Gyeongwon in Dongducheon Station, Line 1

21. Seoulland

Seoulland is one of tourist destinations in Korea and the first recreation park in the country which is surrounded by the beautiful Mountain Cheonggyesan. It has the area called “World Garden” in which you can see traditional architecture and goods from all over the world.

As for Korean traditional culture, you can see it in its Samcheori Hill in the western area called Modern Land and Fantasy Land. Seoulland has more than forty rides such as Space Cruise, Black Hole 2000, Galaxy Train, Rapid Current Ride, Magic Carpet, Adventure Theater, Movie Theater, and Story Land.

Moreover, there are the seasonal festivals held at the Seoul Grand Park such as the tulip spring festival, rose summer festival, chrysanthemum fall festival, and snow light winter festival.

Location: 181, Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Ticket: 20,000 won (adult); 17,000 won (teen); 15,000 (child) at noon

18,000 (adult); 15,000 (teen); 13,000 (child) at night

Transportation: Seoul Grand Park Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 2

 

22. Seoraksan National Park

Seorak, which means big mount, has reef-shaped white summit covered in snow. The national park belongs to four administrative areas, and those are Sokcho, Inje, Goseong, and Yangyang. The highest summit is called Daecheongbong.

In this national park, there is magnificent scenery of the river, valley, shrines, and waterfall. The sunrise in the area is spectacular too.

 Location: Buk-myeon, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Baekdamsa Temple

 

23. Namiseom Island

Namiseom is a half-moon shaped island which is located 63 km from Seoul. The island is known for its beautiful trees along its roads. It takes 30 minutes to arrive in this island from Chuncheon and an hour from Seoul outskirt. Because of its close location, many people visit this island to enjoy its panorama.

In the middle of the island, there is a meadow used for training, education, and camping. The island also has swimming pools and watersport facilities such as motorboat and waterski. There are also the areas for recreation, shooting, and skating rink. For visitors staying overnight, there are a villa and bungalows too.

Location: 1, Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
Ferry schedule to the island: 7.30am-6pm (every 30 minutes)

Entrance: 10,000 won (normal); 8,000 won (discounted); 4,000 won (special)
Transportation: Shuttle from Gapyeong Station

24. Sokcho Beach

From Bus Terminal Express Seokcho, you only need to walk 500 meters to arrive at Seokcho Beach. The beach is beautiful with its white sands and pine forest. Its close location makes you feel more comfortable too.

The location is also near Seorak Mountain which has many visitors. The beach has become one of the most important tourist destination in Seokcho-si aside from Seorak Mountain, Cheoksan Hot Spring, Cheongchoho, and Yeongrangho.

In this beach, there is a hwaleo hoe (fresh sashimi) seller. You can enjoy the sashimi or go fishing with the boat to Jo Island.

Location: 190, Haeoreum-ro, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do

Opening times: 6am-12pm.

Transportation: Bus from Gangnam Express Bus Terminal (subway line 3 or 7, Express Bus Terminal Station) to Seokcho

25. Jangtaesan Recreational Forest

Located in Jangan-dong, Seo-gu, Daejeon, the recreation forest Jangtaesan consists of Ginkgo and pine trees. There is a popular valley near the forest; the forest serves as a gate to the valley during the summer.

Near the forest entrance, there is Yongtaeul Dam which adds the beauty of the scenery. The facilities in this forest are complete, such as footpath, physical activity areas, and a botanical garden.

Location: 461, Jangan-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal to Yuseong Intercity Bus Terminal

26. Anmyondo Island

Located 30 km from Taean, Anmyeondo Island is the sixth biggest island in Korea. There is a 200-meters bridge which connects the island with Taean-gun. The island is also connected to Nammyeon which was isolated during the Joseon Era.

The island has 14 beaches and pine trees, the symbol of Anmyeon-eup. There is also Anmyeondo National Forest and Mogamju Forest.

Location: 149, Jangteo-ro, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Central City Terminal to Anmyeondo Island

 

27. Imsil Cheese Village

Imsil, Jeollabuk-do, is a city known as the first cheese maker in Korea. This culinary tourist destination offers an experience to live in clean and nonpolluted farmland. The village is well-known among international tourists who want to try Korean cheese.

Hanok Village, the traditional Korean village is only 30-minutes travel from this village so that many tourists choose to stay in Hanok and visit this village from there. The farmland program opens throughout the year, except every Monday. You can book via telephone at least three days before your visit.

Location: 4, Cheese maeul 1-gil, Imsil-eup, Imsil-gun, Jeollabuk-do
Entrance: Free

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal to Imsil, then Gwanchon

28. Juknokwon

Juknokwon is a bamboo forest garden developed by the local government of Damyang. It was previously an area of Seonginsan Mountain beside the Damyang Hyanggyo (a Confucian school). The bamboo forest has a human-made waterfall, pavilion, footpath, and ecology exhibition center.

You need an hour or more to walk around the garden. You can see this garden and its lamps from Hyanggyo Bridge. The lamps are turned on during the night to help visitors walk around the garden at night.

Location: 119, Jungnogwon-ro, Damyang-eup, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do

Entrance: 3,000 won (adult); 1,500 won (teen); 1,000 won (child); group discount is applicable

Transportation: Train from Yeongan Station (Seoul) to Gwangju. Then, bus 311 from Gwangju Station to Juknokwon bus stop.
 

29. Cheongsando Island

Cheongsando Island has a magnificent panorama of the mountain, sea, and the sky. The island is one of the 50 beautiful islands to visit in Korea. The island is located only 19.2 km from Wando Island. It takes 50 minutes to travel to the island using a ferry.

The island is often visited by travelers who love trekking and photography. People can visit the island every day because there is a ferry from Wando to Cheonsangdo Passenger Terminals.

Location: Cheongsan-myeon, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do

Transportation: Ferry from Wando to Cheongsando

 

30. Expo Ocean Park

Expo Ocean Park is a near the beach tourist destination. Here, there is dynamic seawater sports programs and comfortable guesthouses. The place also offers rooms and facilities for international or local meetings, exhibition, or seminar.

Location: 1, Bangnamhoe-gil, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do

Opening times of the EXPO Ocean Park: 9am-9pm
Entrance ticket: Free, but the rides and some facilities aren’t

Transportation: Train from Yongsan Station to Yeosu-Expo Station

31. Daehan Dawon Tourist Plantation

Daehan Dawon Tourist Plantation is in Boseong. The tourist destination has a specialty in tea which is originally from the southern valley of Mountain Boseong.

The Boseong area has become a tea farmland since the Japanese imperialism. Since then, tradition and expertise about tea farming and processing have become the characteristics of Boseong and the workers there. The location is often used for filming movies about tourist destination. In May every year, the Dahyangje Tea Festival is held.

Location: 763-67, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do

Opening times: Summer 9am-7pm; Winter 9am-6pm

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal to Boseong Intercity Bus Terminal. Continue the journey with a local bus to Yulpo, get off in Daehan Dawon bus stop.

32. Gukje Market

Gukje, which means "International," is a market in Busan. It started as the settlements built by the internally displaced people (IDPs) during the Korean War. The IDPs opened restaurants and kiosks in the area to survive financially. Over the years, their settlements then developed to become the present Gukje Market.

Each corridor in this tourist destination has many kiosks and is connected to other markets such as Bupyeong Market or Kkangtong Market and some smaller markets nearby. There are a variety of goods sold here so that the visitors can find almost everything they want to buy.

Location: 36, Junggu-ro, Jung-gu, Busan

Opening hour: 9am-8pm

Transportation: Jagalchi Station (Busan Subway Line 1), Exit 7

33. Bupyeong (Kkangtong) Market

Busan Bupyeong Market is also known as Kkangtong Market or ‘Dottegi Market.' Korean exported goods sold in other countries are distributed from this market. The market itself is huge and has all exported goods which are hard to find anywhere else. Therefore, this market is often addressed as Gukje Market (international market), which is a different market.

At present day, the exported goods have been limited, but the reputation of the market as the export center remains. The remaining goods are still exported from here include garments, accessories, ornaments, and electronics. Moreover, restaurants are selling Korean, Japanese, and Filipino cuisines here.

In its entrance gate, there are LED lamps and exciting performances such as magic and guitar. The performances are held twice a day.

Location: 32, Junggu-ro 33beon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan

Transportation: Express bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal/Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, continue to Busan Central Bus Terminal; Train from Seoul/Yeongdeungpo Station to Busan Station.

34. Gamcheon Cultural Village

Gumcheon Cultural Village consists of terraced houses on the foot of a mountain near the beach. The village is also known as the "Machu Picchu Busan City." The scenery around the village is so beautiful with the valleys around it; it was designed with artistic sculptures by the locals. The facilities available are the Gamcheon Cultural Village Information Center, small museum, minimarket, gallery, café, and restaurant.

Location: 203, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan

Opening times: March-November 9am-6pm; December-February 9am-5pm
Transportation: Goejeong Station, get on local bus Sakha 1 or Sakha 1-1, get off in Gamcheon Elementary School.
 

35. Taejongdae Recreation Park

Along with Oryukdo Island, Taejongdae Recreation Park was built as the representative of Busan. The beach in this park is famous for its beautiful coral reef, while the mountain, standing at 250 meters from sea level, has pine and other 200 species of trees.

Under the lighthouse, there is a reef called Sinseon Rock because there is a myth that God descends to this spot to relax. Another reef is called Mangbuseok, taken from a tale about a woman waiting for her husband who was detained by the Japanese soldiers.

The park is also the place where the locals hold rainmaking ritual during the dry months. While during good weather, you can see Japan’s Tsushima Island from here.

Location: 24, Jeonmang-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan

Opening times: March - October 4am-12pm; November – February 5am-12pm

Transportation: From Busan Station, get on the Bus 88 or 101, get off in Taejongdae

36. Kim Gwangseok-gil Street

Painted wall along the street is the characteristic of this tourist destination. It’s located near Bangcheon Market where the late folk singer Kim Gwangseok lived. The 350-metres wall has not only paintings but also statues which portray the musician and his life. Every autumn, there is the Kim Gwangseok’s Singing Contest near the area.

Location: 2238, Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu

Opening hours: all the time

Transportation: From Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, get on the bus to Seo Daegu Express Bus Terminal or Bus 990, 991, 309, 403, 609, 649, 840, 939 and get off at Bangcheon Market.

37. Ganjeolgot Cape

Sunset on the East Coast of Korea can be seen early from Ganjeolgot Point in Daesong-ri, Seosaeng-myun, Uljin-gun. The sunset is seen earlier by one minute than that from Homigot Point, and by five minutes than that from Jeongdongjin in Gangneung.

Ganjeolgot Point is a new tourist destination along with Jinha beach and Seosengpo Fortress. The acacia trees grow in line with coastwise from Ulsan to Haeundae Busan. There is a street connecting the two places, where you can drive and enjoy the exotic scenery of the mountain, acacia trees, and the sea.

Location: 39-2, Ganjeolgot 1-gil, Seosaeng-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan

Ticket: Free

Opening times: 9am-6pm
Transportation: Express bus from Seoul Terminal to Ulsan Terminal

38. Taehwagang River

Taehwagang River cuts across the city of Ulsan with its outfall is located in between Mountain Gijisan and Mountain Baekunsan. The 47,54-km length river flows in the city center of Ulsan toward the Ulsan Bay which connects to the East Coast of Korea. Not only become a tourist destination, but the river is also important in the history and culture of Ulsan locals.

There are many recreation spots near the river, such as a bamboo forest, meadow, footpath, and sports facilities. The riverbank itself is also the home for a flock of birds and a relaxing area for Ulsan locals.

Location: Sinjeong1-dong, Nam-gu, Ulsan-si

Opening times: All the time

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: City Bus 317, 402, 421, 422, 426, 442, 802, 807 or 817 to Taehwagang River

39. Daewangam Park

Daewangam Park is located on the East Coast. There is a one-kilometer track to the beach through which you can walk while enjoying the beauty of pine, cherry, magnolia, camellia, apricot, and forsythia trees and flowers. The beach has beautiful reefs formed by the wind over the years. From the beach, there is another footpath to Ulgi Lighthouse.

Crossing the sea through a bridge, you can arrive in Daewangam Island, a big coral island which has a shape like a flying dragon in the sky.

Location: 140, Deungdae-ro, Dong-gu

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: From Ulsan Intercity Bus Terminal to Express Bus Terminal, walk around 400m to Lotte Hotel Ulsan, get on the bus 108, 133 or 401 and get off in Ilsan Beach.

40. Bulguksa Temple

Another one of tourist destinations in Korea in the list is Bulguksa Temple, a cultural heritage of Gyengju, which has been acknowledged by the UNESCO. This beautiful and artistic temple is one of the stone heritage most known in the world. Aside from the temple itself, in the area, there are several cultural buildings such as Dabotap Pagoda, Seokgatap Pagoda, Yeonhwa-gyo and Chilbo-gyo Bridge, Cheongun-gyo and Baegun-gyo Bridge, Seokguram Grotto, and Saritap Pagoda.

Location: 385, Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Ticket: 5,000 won (adult); 3,500 won (teen); 2,500 won (child); group discount is applicable

Transportation: From Gyeongju Train Station, get on Bus No. 10 or 11, get off in Bulguksa Temple

 

41. Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Hahoe Village consists of awash houses in Nakdong River. It's located at the foot of Mount Hwasan. The houses use typical tile roofs of Ryu clan which makes the village looks even more beautiful.

Aside from the scenery of Nakdong River, Hahoe Village also has magnificent Buyongdae Canyon and a white sand beach with the old pine trees. You can get on the boat to visit Buyongdae Canyon and explore the village scenery from there.

 Location: 40, Jongga-gil, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Opening times: 9am-7pm in summer; 9am-6pm in winter

Ticket: 3,000 won (adult); 1,500 won (teen); 1,000 won (child)

Transportation: From Terminal Bus Andong, get on bus 46 to Hahoe Village
 

42. Pohang Jukdo Market

Pohang Jukdo Market was started as a block of local sellers’ kiosks in a meadow near Pohang Port. After five decades, the market has been developed to become a tourist destination. It’s now the biggest traditional market in the East Coast of Korea, precisely in Gyeongsangbuk-do.

In this area, there is also Jukdo Fish Market, only 500 meters from Ogeori, the heart of Pohang City. It's the biggest open fish market with more than 200 fish shops. Near this market, restaurants are serving high-quality sashimi at very affordable prices. During the winter, visitors can enjoy Pohang's special menu, the gwamegi.

Location: 13-1, Jukdosijang 13-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Opening times: 8am-10pm
Transportation: From Pohang Station walk straight to Yongdang-ro 91 Beon-gil

43. Jinjuseong Castle

Jinjuseong Castle stands in an area of 1,760 meters and has three wells and a water spring. Outside of the 5-8-meters height castle, there is Cheongcheon River on the west and Namgang River in the south. There is a pond extended from the castle to the trench built during the war against Japan.

Inside the castle, there is Kim Shi-min Memorial Monument, Uigisa Temple, Seojangdae Temple, Bukjangdae, Changyeolsa, Jinju National Museum, Hoguksa Shrine, and an open stage.

Location: 626, Namgang-ro, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Opening hour: 9am-10pm

Entrance ticket: 2,000 won (adult); 1,000 won (teen); 600 won (child); group discount is applicable

Transportation: From Jinju, Bus Terminal walk around 10-15 minutes to Jinjuseong Castle

 

44. Haeinsa Temple

Haeinsa Temple was founded in the third century A.D. during the reign of King Ae-jang. The Iljumun, Daejeokgwangjeon, and Tripitaka Koreana here are known as the invaluable heritage. The Iljumun Gate is an ancient architecture, while Daejeokgwangjeon is a three-storeyed pagoda which has a majestic view of a thousand years’ architecture.

The wooden blocks of Tripitaka Koreana, the treasure of Haeinsa Temple, was built as a hope to overcome the national crisis caused by Mongolian invasion in the past. It’s 68 cm in length, 24.5 cm in width, and 3 cm in thickness. The wood used to make this block was from silver magnolia trees grew in Geojae area. It was soaked in the South Sea before dried and used for the block.

 Location: 122, Haeinsa-gil, Gaya-myeon, Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam

Opening times: 8.30am-6pm during summer; 8.30am-5pm during winter

Entrance ticket: 3,000 won (adult); 1,500 won (teen); 13-18); 700 won (child)

Transportation: A bus from Deagu Seobu Terminal to Haeinsa Temple

 

45. Changnyeong Upo Wetland

There are four swamps around Yibang-myeon, Daehap-myeon, and Daeji-myeon which are together called Changnyeong Upo Wetland. This is the biggest natural swamp tourist destination in South Korea, with a total area of 5,550 km2. The bottom of each swamp is narrow, only about one meter, in which more than 1,000 species live. The atmosphere of this swamp looks like a primitive area with more than 100 species of water plants grow here.

Upo Wetland was formed from the sediment over the years. At present, there are eight spots to see fireflies and willow garden here. Other attraction here is natural rain fog which is seen when the weather isn’t too windy. During the winter, there are migrated wild birds, ducks, and swans.

Location: 220, Uponeup-gil, Yueo-myeon, Changryeung-gun

Opening times: Closed every Monday and January 1st

Admission times: 9 am to 5 pm

Entrance ticket: 2,000 won (adult); 1,500 won (teen); 1,000 won (child); group discount is applicable

Transportation: Local bus from Changryeong Intercity Bus Terminal to Yibang-myeon, get off in Somoak Jangjae Village

46. Dongpirang Village

The name Dongpirang, the east hill, is originated from two words; ‘dong” which means east and “birang” means hill in Tongyeong dialect. Tongyeong Agenda 21 is an association urging the national community to draw the wall around Dongpirang-gil streets in 2007. The village is located on the seashore near the Gangguan Port. Combined with its arts, this village has a fantastic view.

Location: Dongho-dong, Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Opening hours: 24 hours nonstopEntrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Tongyeong Bus Terminal. Transfer to Bus 101 and get off at Toseonggogae Stop

 

47. Windy Hill

While heading to Haeheumgang Village, you will pass a fishing village called Dojangpo. From Dojangpo Port, you can get on a ferry heading to Oedo Island and Haegemgang River. From the ferry, you can see a hill layered with green grass. It’s the Windy Hill.

Windy Hill has been the background in filming various Korean dramas such as the Eve’s Garden and Merry-Go-Round. Windy Hill is the name given by the fans of this tourist destination. Here, you can walk around its wooden road along the port and see Hakdong Island.

Location: Nambu-myeon, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Opening times: All the time

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Bus from Express Bus Terminal in Seoul to Gohyeon Bus Terminal

 

48. German Village

Koreans that returned from their staying in Germany built German Village. They moved to Germany in the 1960s when they got foreign currency during the modernization in Korea. Now the village has become a tourist destination with its Germany culture.

The builders imported materials from Germany to build the houses. The buildings aren’t used as their residence but a tourist housing. Near the village, there is Windbreak Forest, a seashore forest with a breathtaking view of Mulmi Coastal Road.

Location: 64-7, Dogil-ro, Samdong-myeon, Namhae-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal or Dong Seoul Terminal to Namhae Terminal. Continue with a local bus from to Namhae-Mijo and get off in Naedongcheon.

 

49. Somaemuldo island

What makes this island beautiful is its unique coral reef and the lighthouse. There are naturally formed Yong Bawi (dragon stone), Buchudae Bawi (Buddhist reef), Geobuk Bawi (turtle reef), Chotdae Bawi (candle holder reef), and Geulssingi Cave.

During the tidal reflux, you can walk from this island to the surrounding smaller islands. You can visit Somaemuldo Island and Deungdaeseom Island, in which there is sitting dinosaurs-looking reefs. These unique looking reefs are what the tourist come after for.

Location: 65, Somaemuldo-gil, Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Transportation: From Gohyeon Bus Terminal, walk to Geoje Children Hospital and get on the Bus 53-1, get off in Maemuldo Passenger Terminal Bus Stop. Continue with a ferry.

50. Geoje Haegeumgang Island

As one of the most attractive tourist destination in Geoje Island, the Geoje Haegeumgang River is also called Geumgang River (diamond sea) of South Korea. The most magnificent view the tourists love to see is the sunrise and sunset seen from the Lion Rock. Moreover, there is the Shipjagul Cave in the middle of the river.

If you travel around this one of the most exciting tourist destinations in Korea, you will be amazed by the height of coral reef wall and the cave. If you get on the ferry to travel around the island, you can sightsee the magnificent Maitreya Rock, Candlestick Rock, and the 1,300 years old pine tree.

Location: San 1, Galgot-ri, Nambu-myeon, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Transportation: Bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal to Tongyeong, continue with a bus to Haegeumgang.

51. Hallasan National Park

The historical Hallasan Mountain is in the middle of famous Jeju Island. The mountain is known among geologists for its geological values. It’s then officially transformed into a national park with 368 parasitic volcanoes called oreum surrounding the main mount.

Hallasan Mountain is known as an ecosystem tourist destination because the mountain has a wide range of temperature to support the ecosystem. There are more than 1,800 species of flora and 4,000 species of fauna, with 3,300 among them have been identified as insects. To explore this rich ecosystem, you need to walk in the broadened road in the mountain.

Location: 2070-61, 1100-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-doEntrance Ticket: Free

Opening times: All the time

Transportation: Bus No. 740 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal Eorimok
 Bus No. 781 or 781-1 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal Seongpanak

52. Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak emerged from the sea floor during an eruption 100,000 years ago. Located in the eastern part of Jeju Island, this mount has a big caldera in the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. The diameter of the caldera is 600 meters, while the height is 90 meters. There are 99 coral reefs in the caldera, forming a giant crown-looking Reef collection.

In the southeast and north of the peak, there are the canyons, while in the northwest there is a green hill connected to Seongsan Village. There is also a bridge which makes the location is perfect for walking and horse-riding.

From the peak, the sunrise looks beautiful. While during the spring, the peak surrounds with a yellow glow from canola flowers.

Location: 284-12, Ilchul-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
Opening times: An hour before sunrise until after the sunset
Entrance ticket: 2,000 won (adult); 1,000 (teen and adult); group discount is applicable
Transportation: Bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal to Seongsan, get off in the Seongsalliipgu Bus Stop.

53. Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest

Jeju Jeolmul Recreational Forest is a natural forest in Mount Hallasan, Jeju Island. The Jeolmul Oreum, the main garden in the mount, is known for its beautiful Japanese cedar forest.

Jeolmul Oreum’s altitude is at 697 meters above the sea level and was formed from volcanic activities. The peak has a magnificent view. During the sunny weather, you can view Seongsan Inchubong on the eastern seashore of Jeju Island.

This recreational forest is perfect for taking the air. There is also a pool, observatory, meadow, and tourist housing. The housing needs to be booked online.

Location: 584, Myeongnim-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Ticket purchasing time: 7am-7pm
Ticket price: 1,000 won (adult); 600 won (teen); 300 won (child under 12); group discount is applicable

Transportation: Bus 300 or 38 from Jeju International Airport to Dongmun, Transfer to Bus 1 and get off in the Jeolmul Recreation Forest.

 

54. Udo Maritime Park (Udo Island)

Near the eastern seashore of Jeju Island, there is Udo Island which gets its name because of its recumbent cow-looking shape. The land is fertile; the water is rich of fishes; the panorama is breathtaking. There is traditional value in the area, such as the culture of women diver, stone wall, stone tomb, and natural attractions which make this island is like a miniature of Jeju Island. The activities tourists can do in the island are cycling, fishing, sand massage, underwater tour, and cruising.

A white sand beach Seobin Baeksa which appears on TV has different watercolor depending on the sea level. It makes the beach becomes a popular tourist destination in Jeju Island area. There is also a lighthouse on the island which is surrounded by a wide garden.

 Location: Gosumul-gil, Udo-myeon, Jeju-do

Entrance ticket: 1,000 won (adult); 500 won (student under 19)

Transportation: Ferry from Seongsanhang Port Passenger Ferry Terminal to Udo Island

55. Soesokkak Estuary

Located in Seogwipo Jeju Island, Seosokkak Estuary is where the slow-flowing freshwater meets the sea water. The estuary has lava stone banks with pine trees growing on top of them, creating a stunning panorama.

Soesokkak is also famous for its small watercraft named “Teu” which had been used for centuries by the locals to cross the estuary. The tourists can get on this iconic watercraft to get the best view of the estuary.

Location: 128, Seosokkak-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: From Jeju International Airport, get a Bus 600 to KAL hotel, then get a taxi to Seosokkak.

56. Seopjikoji

Seopjikoji on the eastern seashore of Jeju Island is a large hill. Here, standing a natural 4-meters tall Bongsudae stone and 9-meters Hyeopjayeondae stone.

The hill has become a scene background in some movies and dramas such as in Gingko Bed, The Uprising, and One Thousand and One Nights. The nearest tourist destination from this hill is Jeju Folk Village and Udo Island.

Location: 107, Seopjikoji-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Entrance Ticket: Free

Transportation: Bus 910 from Seogwipo Intercity Bus Terminal to Sinyangri Bus Stop, continue with a 5-minutes taxi ride to Seopjikoji.

57. Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market

Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is the biggest shopping destination in Seogwipo. This traditional market was built in the 1960s and has become Seogwipo economic mainstay. Since 2000, this market has been enlarged to now more than 620-meters square.

The interior of the market was designed to accommodate visitors in finding their wanted shops. The market also offers free delivery service and cultural performances in its open stage.

Location: 22, Jungjeong-ro73beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Opening times: 7am-9pm
Transportation: Five-minutes travel by bus 600 from Seogwipo Intercity Bus Terminal

58. Bijarim Forest

In Bijarim Forest, there are around 2,800 nutmeg trees aged 500 and 800 years. With an average height of 7-14 meters and diameter of 50-110 centimeters, those trees make Bijarim Forest become the biggest nutmeg forest in the world.

In the middle of the forest, the 800 years old nutmeg tree is called the ancestor of the nutmeg tree. It's also the oldest tree on Jeju Island with a height of 25 meters and diameter of 6 meters. There are other plants in the forest, including the rare species of orchid. To explore the forest, there are footpaths for the visitors.

Location: 55, Bijasup-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Opening times: 9am-6pm

Entrance ticket: 1,500 won (adult); 800 won (teen and child)

Transportation: Donghae Line Bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal to Pyengdae-ri or Sehwa-ri, continue with shuttle bus to Bijarim Forest

59. Jeju Stone Park

Located in Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju Stone Park is inspired by the history of Jeju, its stone, and spirit. The theme of the park is a legend called Grandma Seolmundae who created Jeju Island and 500 general stone ornaments. This stone park offers history and cultural tourism through its collection of typical Jeju Island stones.

 Location: 2023 Namjo-ro, Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Opening hours: 9am-6pm

Entrance ticket: 5,000 won (adult); 3,500 won (teen); group discount is applicable

Transportation: Bus 100 from Jeju International Airport to Jeju Terminal Bus, transfer the bus to Namjo-ro and get off in Jeju Stone Park.

60. Eco Land Theme Park

The last one on this list of tourist destinations in Korea is in the one-kilometer square of Gotjiwal ancient forest. Visitors can explore the forest by the UK originated steam train which is specially operated for tourists.

In this theme park, visitors can explore a variety of flora, fauna, and especially insects habituating in this mysterious forest. There is also a lake in which visitors can learn more about the ecosystem or simply go picnic.

Location: 1278-169, Beonyeong-ro, Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Opening times: 8.30am-6pm during summer; 8.40am-5pm during winter

Entrance ticket: 12,000 won (adult); 10,000 won (teen); group discount is applicable
Transportation: Bus 730 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal to Jeju Hannamri Seogwipo, get off in the Lee Gipung Missionary Memorial Hall.