7 DAYS HAEUNDAE AND 7 DAYS SEOMYEON, BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA - 30 APR TO 14 MAY 2017
BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA
1. SOUTH KOREANS
1.1 KINDNESS OF SOUTH KOREANS-WARMS THE HEARTS
From my previous Seoul trip, I knew foreigners without the kindness of South Koreans will have greater difficulty in finding their way around as almost all directional signs, road names, buildings, maps are in Hangul. Armed with just 2 korean greeting phrases, (gam-sah-ham-ni-da=Thank You & an-yong-ha-se-yo=Good Morning), we descended onto Busan territory on an overnight flight via Thai Airways.
The first road block we hit was on arrival at the Gimhae Airport when we inquired about cashbee cards at the 7/11 store. Fortunately, there was a Chinese Korean in the queue who translated our inquiry and helped us buy 2 cashbee cards.
We were blessed by Koreans who spoke English, Chinese Koreans who spoke Mandarin who initiated to come forward to our aid whenever we looked confused or were at crossroads.
Even those who do not speak English also try to help. This old lady approached a taxi driver to help us with our inquiry about the village bus. The taxi driver showed us the bus stop, gestured us to wait and even pointed to something green which we did not understand at that time. Later, we figured out that he was trying to tell us to look out for the village bus which was painted green.
At another instance, we met an old lady at the village bus stop. With lots of sign language and gesturing, we confirmed that we could take the village bus at the same bus stop time as her. At one point, she kept saying "mull" (water in Korean) which we thought she was trying to tell us not to bring up water bottles up the village bus. Wow, they also practiced strict safety and security checks on the ground. To our amusement, we realized she was asking for drinking water. In my whole life, nobody I met on the street ever asked for water.
At the subway, a Korean offered to help us when we were checking which direction we should be taking. He was glad to share his pleasant memories when he visited Singapore 20 years back and threw out names of several places of interests.
1.2. WELL DEVELOPED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM-EASE OF TRAVEL
Subways are extensive and extremely convenient. There is a line from Gimhae airport into Seomyeon and Haeundae.Buses are airconditioned and have electronic display panels and announcements in English for the next bus destination which were extremely helpful for tourists. Cashbee cards are similar to ezlink cards to be tapped in when boarding and out when exiting. Each card costs 4,000kw non refundable and charge up can be done with a minimum of 1,000kw per transaction. Most convenient stores sell these cards and do charge up at no extra costs.
1.3. MADE IN KOREA-QUALITY STUFF WITH HIGH STANDARD
I must attest to it that Made in Korea stuff are better in quality in terms of workmanship and material though price may not be much cheaper than back home.
Wrapping service with fine and exquisite paper cuttings and decor at Lotte Mall Gwangbokdong.
2. WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION-SPOILT FOR CHOICE
2.1 THE BEACH HOTEL HAEUNDAE (30 APR TO 7 MAY 2017)
We chose to stay at The Beach Hotel Haeundae because it was newly renovated in Oct 2016 and located about 200m from the Haeundae Subway Station.
To go from the airport to the hotel, the better option is to take the light rail and change at Sasang station (Line 2) for connection to Haeundae station.
This is the lift from Exit 5 to street level.
At Exit 5, turn right, walk straight and turn right at the intersection where you see the building with huge food sticks and walk for about 100m to The Beach Haeundae
If taking the limo bus, you will alight near the Seacloud Hotel or Novotel Hotel which are nearer to the beach and walk 600m towards the hotel. (see map below) The limo option is further.
The hotel is conveniently located to explore Haeundae Beach and the surrounding areas.We were happy with the friendly service, cleanliness of the room, strong free wifi and a bathtub in 607.
Room was spacious (20m2), well lit and comes with a huge LED TV, fridge, kettle, instant coffee 3 in 1 and korean brown rice tea bags, bottles of mineral water, toiletries including facial cleansers, skin lotion for the ladies.
We stayed on the 6th floor and we were blessed with a water cooler and microwave oven near the lift landing.
The aircon was silently working through the night which gave us great sleep.
Though the official check in time was 1700hrs, we were allowed early check in at 1300hrs and took to the comfortable bed after reeling from a sleepless and tired overnight flight
2.2 ANGEL HOTEL, SEOMYEON (7 MAY TO 14 MAY 2017)
Time flies. After 7 nights at Haeundae Beach, we said goodbye and brought our memories to our next stop at Seomyeon. We stayed at Angel Hotel for its location and good reviews by Trip Advisor. 
At Seomyeon subway, Exit 2 and walk out to street level where Woori Bank is on your left.
Walk further down the street and you will see Standard Chartered Bank on your left. 
Walk straight till you see Judies Taehwa Store
Turn left and you will see Dongba Plaza and walk straight for 50m. 
when you see 2 wooden directional signs, turn right. Walk till you see a metal structure of a "heart shaped love" sign. 
At the "heart shaped love" sign, turn left and continue walking till you will see another metal structure of 2 hands with locking last fingers. 
Turn right and walk straight 50m for Angel Hotel.
JEONPON STATION (LINE 2)
If you alight at Seomyeon station, there are no lifts or escalator from platform to street level. We had to lug our luggage bags on 2 flight of steps.
Alternatively, as we later found out that day, we could alight at Jeonpo Station and exit 7 to use lift or escalator to street level, make a u-turn and walk straight till you see a lane sloping downhill. Walk downhill and at traffic light, cross the street, turn right and then turn right again and walk 50m and Angel Hotel is on your right.
We chose this hotel due to its location. It is at the center of Seomyeon with lots of happenings, retail therapy, shopping, food, entertainment. Though not a new hotel, the room is clean and spacious (17m2). It is equipped with a TV but the non led type, kettle, fridge, instant coffee, bottled drinks, toiletries and the bathtub.
Breakfast is included in the room rate. The restaurant was under renovation so we had to pick up our breakfast and and bring to room. Every day was the same simple meal of toast, bread roll, boiled eggs, coffee, orange juice and fruits served from 730am to 9am.3. DELICIOUS FOOD GALORE-EAT TO YOUR HEARTS' CONTENT
We walked to the gukbap street for lunch where there were 6 stores selling beef or pork gukbap which is beef/pork and rice/noodles in soup.
We ordered beef gukbap with rice and noodles from a famous shop, 48 nyeon Jeontong Haeundae Wonjo Halme Gukbap
But there were free flow of 3 preserved condiments on the table and mineral water.
The listed price for each order was 5,000kw but we were charged an additional 5% (250kw), a tax perhaps.
The taste was bland not the rich flavourful bite we were expecting.
3.1.2 PORK GUKBAPWe tried the pork gukbap at another famous store, Jongjeom Halme Dwaeji Gukbap.
Each order was 5,000kw but without the 5% additional charges.
3 preserved condiments were also served with free flow of mineral water.
The soup was whitish but the taste was similarly bland even after putting in the sides
3.1.3 PORK GUKBAP
We had pork gukbap at the first shop when you enter Haeundae food street.
We saw long queues at this shop and decided to check it out.
Unlike the shops on our first day, this shop gave a generous helping of pork slices with 3 side dishes and free flow of mineral water.
Price was 5,500kw each and taste was above average.
According to a Korean lady seated at the next table, who had worked in China for 3 years and spoke fluent Mandarin, she told us that this shop was hugely popular among locals and tasted the best in Busan. Wow we went to the right shop!
3.1.4 FRIED CHICKEN
Fried chicken at 6,000kw from stall located near the end of Haeundae Food Street
3.1.5 SSIAT HOTTEOK
Deliciously yummy with its hot chewy pan fried skin, pine nuts, pumpkin seeds and syrup filling.
3.1.6 TEMPURA
This shop sells a variety of fried vegetables, fried seafood, teokpokki and fish cake sticks dipped in broth.
It is located in the middle of Haeundae Food Street and is popular as there is always a queue.
Join the Q, take a box for takeaway, choose any 6pc tempura and pay 4,000kw.
Crisp and delicious.
3.1.7 STEAMED MANDU
Steamed mandu with red bean filling as healthy snacks.
Soft, tender, steaming hot and lots of ingredient.
6 for 4,000kw at a shop located in the middle of Haeundae Food Street
We had pork gukbap at the first shop when you enter Haeundae food street.
We saw long queues at this shop and decided to check it out.
Unlike the shops on our first day, this shop gave a generous helping of pork slices with 3 side dishes and free flow of mineral water.
Price was 5,500kw each and taste was above average.
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3.1.4 FRIED CHICKEN
Fried chicken at 6,000kw from stall located near the end of Haeundae Food Street
3.1.5 SSIAT HOTTEOK Deliciously yummy with its hot chewy pan fried skin, pine nuts, pumpkin seeds and syrup filling.
1,000kw from stall located opposite the fried chicken stall
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3.1.6 TEMPURA
This shop sells a variety of fried vegetables, fried seafood, teokpokki and fish cake sticks dipped in broth.
It is located in the middle of Haeundae Food Street and is popular as there is always a queue.
Join the Q, take a box for takeaway, choose any 6pc tempura and pay 4,000kw.
Crisp and delicious.
3.1.7 STEAMED MANDU
Steamed mandu with red bean filling as healthy snacks.
Soft, tender, steaming hot and lots of ingredient.
6 for 4,000kw at a shop located in the middle of Haeundae Food Street
3.1.8 BARBECUED EELS
Eels are a favorite dish among the locals.
Oppa skillfully deskins the eels at lightening speed before the eyes of these young spectators.
It was quite an entertaining show!
Then, Ahjumma barbecues them.
3.2 SNOW CRAB, GIJANG MARKET
Take bus 181 from bus stop located in front of Citadines Hotel to Gijang market.This is the bus stop where we alighted which is the 2nd stop after Gijang Elementary School.
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The bus stop is located directly in front of the market
The journey was about an hour.
For the return trip, we took bus 39 which has a shorter travel time, about 45 min. The bus stop is just opposite the bus stop where we alighted.
There were many stalls selling snow crabs with owners calling out to customers. We went further into the market and heard 1 shopowner who spoke English. He weighed out a snow crab that cost of 58,000kw and offered 2 korean crabs for free. I bargained it to 45,000kw for 1 snow crab and 1 korean crab.
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| Fresh Snow Crabs |
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| Ajumma cutting up the steamed crabs |
They were steamed and served with a wide variety of side dishes including pajeon, a deliciously fried pancake and free flow of mineral water at a table charge of 3,000kw per pax.
We ordered 1 fried rice at 2,000kw which was served out on the snow crab shell.
It was fresh and value for money.
The portion was just a little too much for both of us as we packed away the peanuts, sweet potatoes (sweet and tender), cherry tomatoes (crunchy and juicy) and pigeon eggs as snacks later.
3.3 NOODLE SHOP, DALMAJI ROAD
The fried Korean noodles with pork and bulgogi fried rice were deliciously satisfying for 15,000kw.
These dishes have the "wok" aromatic fragrance.
Delicious.
We chanced upon this bakery, OPS at Haeundae which was so crowded that we had to check it out. They gave generous portions for food tasting.
We liked the cream puff at 2,300kw. It was hard on the outside when it came straight out from the oven. Upon cooling, the skin turns soft and the filling is runny and melts in the mouth.
Not too sweet.
The green tea cake at 1,900kw was wrapped in green tea fragrance. The other was a cheese bun at 1,900kw. Yummy
3.5.1 HOMEPLUS, HAEUNDAE BRANCH
As Homeplus Haeundae was just across the street of Haeundae beach, we had lunch at its food court.
We tried the korean teokpokki, 1 stick of fish cake and glutinous rice with slices of pig, intestines and liver for 7,700kw.
A value set meal at 6,000kw comprising pork cutlet, fried rice, spaghetti, soup, salad, kim chee and preserved radish.
Tasty and in generous portion at Homeplus Food Court.
We were amazed by their eco friendliness and high hygiene standards.
Metal drinking cups are serialized and stored in these cupboards.
Drinking water is provided free of charge in the food court.
The utensils were kept in a stored cupboard at the individual stores.
They practice returning trays to the individual stores.
Most stores do not provide plastic bags.
You either bring your own recycle bag or pack your stuff into carton boxes as takeaway.
It was fun and unique experience shopping at Korean supermarkets
3.5.2 HOMEPLUS, SEOMYEON BRANCH
After lunch, we continued our walk and found e~mart. This place was huge and no crowd.
Shopping was relaxed and enjoyable.
So spacious.
As Homeplus was just nearby, we had our Dinner at Homeplus food court.
Ordered this massive meal for 2 at 12,500kw.
3.5.3 HOMEPLUS, CENTUM CITY BRANCH
Vietnamese fried spring rolls (4pcs for 3,000kw)
A pork cutlet set for 5,500kw. Yummy.
Here, in place of metal cups, they provide paper cups.
There was free flow of drinking water.
3.6 MILLAK RAW FISH CENTER, MILLAK
As we entered the ground floor of the Millak Raw Fish Center, the fishmongers were waving and gesturing us to their stalls.
We stopped at 1 stall further in because the seller spoke some English.
She picked 2 fishes and quoted us 20,000kw.
We told her 1 sashimi and 1 barbecue.
After paying, she told us to go to 5th floor to wait for our food.
On the 5th floor, we were served at a table full of side dishes, condiments and drinking water.
After about 15min of waiting and nimbles on the side dishes, the sashimi came.
It was firm, chewy and fresh.
The other fish was not barbecued as requested.
It was steamed with spicy sauces and vegetables.
It tasted delicious too.
But the bill came as a surprise.
3.7 JUNGDONG
3.7.1 NEAR EMART, HAEUNDAE BRANCH
A small eatery located just around the corner before eMart entrance, Haeundae branch.
Piping hot pork steamed dumplings at 3,500kw and Japanese style, pork cutlet for 5,000kw including free preserved vegetable and and anchovy soup.
Spicy korean noodles with freshly sliced octopus tentacles about 9,000kw from fresh seafood section of e~mart
3.7.2 BRUELLE, JUNGDONG BRANCH
At Jungdong which was about 15min walk away from where we stayed, we had breakfast at a local deli, Bruelle tucked away at a corner of the street.
Small, cosy, quiet and relaxing ambience.
Excellent place to sit, relax and enjoy the slower pace of life.
Hot latte with cheese sandwich and pizza which over toasted before serving us.
3.7.3 DESSERT STALL, JUNGDONG
Along the way to Jangsan, we found a local dessert stall in Jungdong and tried their famous red bean soup which is thicker in texture and has chewy slices of glutinous rice.
3.8 JANGSAN
NOODLE AND DUMPLING SHOP, JANGSAN
Spicy cold noodles at 5,500kw and a plate of dumplings of 3 varieties for 8,500kw at a diner across NC Department Store, Jangsan
Sumptuous.
3.9 SEOMYEON
3.9.1 PORK CUTLET SHOP, SEOMYEON
This shop is located about 50m from Angel Hotel.
Pork Cutlet stuffed with cheese (5,500kw) served with rice and free flow of preserved kim chee, salad, soup and water.
Pork cutlet (3,800kw) served with rice and free flow of preserved kim chee, salad, soup and water.
Delicious comfort food.
Value for money.
3.9.2 FRIED NOODLE SHOP, SEOMYEON
The shop was about 100m from Angel Hotel
Fried beef noodles at 6,000kw and fried pork slices for 9,000kw.
Chinese style cooking.
Flavorful.
3.9.3 FRIED CHICKEN SHOP, SEOMYEON
Deep fried crispy chicken cutlet that comes with rice, salad and kim chee for just 5,000kw.
The shop is located just outside the Angel Hotel
3.9.4 BAKERY, SEOMYEON
The bakery is located just outside the Angel Hotel next to the fried chicken store.
3.9.5 DO NE NU, SEOMYEON
Its specialty is barbecued pork and is just walking distance of 20m on the left of Angel Hotel.
Sale of pork goes by the weight.
We chose 2 types of pork about 300gm at different prices, for total of 18,500kw.
We barbecued the pork according to our preference and ate them in wrapped leaves and with other side dishes.
Their menu also offers a EAT ALL YOU CAN selection which is popular among young people.
We saw the next table of 5 young men being served dishes after dishes of raw pork and in huge chunks.
Price was about 25,000kw
3.9.6 JJ LOBSTER BAR, LOTTE MALL SEOMYEON
Fresh live lobsters
Grilled lobster, 2 kinds of mussels and a salad for 20,660kw.
They provide plastic hand gloves so your hands would not be dirty and oily.
Sumptuous.
Value for money.
We visited it a second time and the price was slightly cheaper at 22,540kw each
We sat around the table and could see the chef grilling the lobsters.
We thought the lobsters on display in front of us were fakes. And got a shock when they flipped their tails and moved!
Wow. How fresh can you get!
3.10 CHORYANG MARKET
We walked the Busan underground shopping center and visited the Choryang market for food and fruits.
6 pork dumplings (2,000kw), 2 vegetable dumplings and 2 pancakes (3,500kw) packed with red bean fillings to the brim sold at the Choryang market
Bonjuk is a leading traditional korean rice porridge franchise shop which serves a wide range of tasty and healthy porridge.
When we entered the shop, it was filled with the fragrance of steaming hot porridge.
Spicy ramen served with kim chee at 7,000kw
Miso ramen served with kim chee at 7,000kw
3.13 SSIAT HOTTEOK, GUJKE MARKET/BIFF
This is the famous ssiat hotteok stall.
Pan fried on both sides and is cut half way to fill up with pine nuts, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
Beware of the piping hot cinnamon syrup filling oozing out on each bite.
The skin is crisper than the chewy one at Haeundae food street.
1,200kw each
3.14 SEASONAL FRUITS
3.14.1 GOLDEN PEARS
3.14.2 STRAWBERRIES
We bought a tray of red strawberries for 5,000kw and 5 huge pears for 5,000kw from sellers hawking their wares at the entrance to the Gijiang Market.
They were so fresh, sweet, juicy and succulent.
The quality is so different from those we ate back home.
3.14.3 GOLDEN MELONS
One truck offered us to try the yellow korean melon and we were blown away by its sweetness and crunchiness.
A bag of 13 small yellow, melons for the 4,000kw.
3.14.4 ORANGES
At another truck, we bought 8 large, sweet and juicy oranges for 5,000kw.
Yes, super good deal
3.14.5 APPLES
It was fun and unique experience shopping at Korean supermarkets
3.5.2 HOMEPLUS, SEOMYEON BRANCH
After lunch, we continued our walk and found e~mart. This place was huge and no crowd.
Shopping was relaxed and enjoyable.
So spacious.
As Homeplus was just nearby, we had our Dinner at Homeplus food court.
Ordered this massive meal for 2 at 12,500kw.
3.5.3 HOMEPLUS, CENTUM CITY BRANCH
Vietnamese fried spring rolls (4pcs for 3,000kw)
A pork cutlet set for 5,500kw. Yummy.
Here, in place of metal cups, they provide paper cups.
There was free flow of drinking water.
3.6 MILLAK RAW FISH CENTER, MILLAK
As we entered the ground floor of the Millak Raw Fish Center, the fishmongers were waving and gesturing us to their stalls.
We stopped at 1 stall further in because the seller spoke some English.
She picked 2 fishes and quoted us 20,000kw.
We told her 1 sashimi and 1 barbecue.
After paying, she told us to go to 5th floor to wait for our food.
On the 5th floor, we were served at a table full of side dishes, condiments and drinking water. 
After about 15min of waiting and nimbles on the side dishes, the sashimi came.It was firm, chewy and fresh.
The other fish was not barbecued as requested.
It was steamed with spicy sauces and vegetables.
It tasted delicious too.
But the bill came as a surprise.
They charged 5,000 per pax for table dishes and also a 10,000kw which we assumed would be for the steaming.
We knew about the table charges but was unaware about the cooking charges at 10,000kw which was a little hefty.
Later, we found out that there were restaurants at other floors offering menu for seafood dishes.
We should have tried the restaurants with menus but felt that the experience was uniquely refreshing though a little expensive.
3.7 JUNGDONG 3.7.1 NEAR EMART, HAEUNDAE BRANCH
A small eatery located just around the corner before eMart entrance, Haeundae branch.
Spicy korean noodles with freshly sliced octopus tentacles about 9,000kw from fresh seafood section of e~mart
At Jungdong which was about 15min walk away from where we stayed, we had breakfast at a local deli, Bruelle tucked away at a corner of the street.
Small, cosy, quiet and relaxing ambience.
Excellent place to sit, relax and enjoy the slower pace of life.
Hot latte with cheese sandwich and pizza which over toasted before serving us.
A unique clock face at 11am when we were having breakfast.
3.7.3 DESSERT STALL, JUNGDONG Along the way to Jangsan, we found a local dessert stall in Jungdong and tried their famous red bean soup which is thicker in texture and has chewy slices of glutinous rice.
For 2,500kw, you can have it cold on ice or hot in soup.
3.8 JANGSAN
NOODLE AND DUMPLING SHOP, JANGSAN
Spicy cold noodles at 5,500kw and a plate of dumplings of 3 varieties for 8,500kw at a diner across NC Department Store, Jangsan
Sumptuous.
3.9 SEOMYEON
3.9.1 PORK CUTLET SHOP, SEOMYEON This shop is located about 50m from Angel Hotel.
Pork Cutlet stuffed with cheese (5,500kw) served with rice and free flow of preserved kim chee, salad, soup and water.
Pork cutlet (3,800kw) served with rice and free flow of preserved kim chee, salad, soup and water.
Delicious comfort food.
Value for money.
3.9.2 FRIED NOODLE SHOP, SEOMYEON
The shop was about 100m from Angel Hotel
Fried beef noodles at 6,000kw and fried pork slices for 9,000kw.
Chinese style cooking.
Flavorful.
3.9.3 FRIED CHICKEN SHOP, SEOMYEON
Deep fried crispy chicken cutlet that comes with rice, salad and kim chee for just 5,000kw. The shop is located just outside the Angel Hotel
3.9.4 BAKERY, SEOMYEONThe bakery is located just outside the Angel Hotel next to the fried chicken store.
Freshly baked breads are often snapped up soon after they are out from the oven.
They have different flavors and this is with cheese. 1,900kw each.
Long queues are common and youngsters often frequent the store.
3.9.5 DO NE NU, SEOMYEON
Its specialty is barbecued pork and is just walking distance of 20m on the left of Angel Hotel.
Sale of pork goes by the weight.
We barbecued the pork according to our preference and ate them in wrapped leaves and with other side dishes.
Their menu also offers a EAT ALL YOU CAN selection which is popular among young people.
We saw the next table of 5 young men being served dishes after dishes of raw pork and in huge chunks.
Price was about 25,000kw
3.9.6 JJ LOBSTER BAR, LOTTE MALL SEOMYEON
Fresh live lobsters
Grilled lobster, 2 kinds of mussels and a salad for 20,660kw.
They provide plastic hand gloves so your hands would not be dirty and oily.
Sumptuous.
Value for money.
We visited it a second time and the price was slightly cheaper at 22,540kw each
We sat around the table and could see the chef grilling the lobsters.
We thought the lobsters on display in front of us were fakes. And got a shock when they flipped their tails and moved!
Wow. How fresh can you get!
3.10 CHORYANG MARKET
6 pork dumplings (2,000kw), 2 vegetable dumplings and 2 pancakes (3,500kw) packed with red bean fillings to the brim sold at the Choryang market
3.11 BONJUK, MUNHYEON
When we entered the shop, it was filled with the fragrance of steaming hot porridge.
Porridge was thick with seaweed and minced beef served with sides dishes of pork floss, kim chee and a minced chilli vegetable.
After the meal, korean tea was served.
After the meal, korean tea was served.
3.12 RAMEN STALL, LOTTE MALL NAMPODONG
Spicy ramen served with kim chee at 7,000kw
Miso ramen served with kim chee at 7,000kw
3.13 SSIAT HOTTEOK, GUJKE MARKET/BIFF
This is the famous ssiat hotteok stall.
Pan fried on both sides and is cut half way to fill up with pine nuts, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
Beware of the piping hot cinnamon syrup filling oozing out on each bite.
The skin is crisper than the chewy one at Haeundae food street. 1,200kw each
3.14 SEASONAL FRUITS
3.14.1 GOLDEN PEARS3.14.2 STRAWBERRIES
We bought a tray of red strawberries for 5,000kw and 5 huge pears for 5,000kw from sellers hawking their wares at the entrance to the Gijiang Market.
They were so fresh, sweet, juicy and succulent.
The quality is so different from those we ate back home.
3.14.3 GOLDEN MELONS
One truck offered us to try the yellow korean melon and we were blown away by its sweetness and crunchiness. A bag of 13 small yellow, melons for the 4,000kw.
3.14.4 ORANGES
At another truck, we bought 8 large, sweet and juicy oranges for 5,000kw.
Yes, super good deal
7 large sized korean apples for 5,000kw. Sweet, crunchy and juicy sold at the Choryang sold market.
3.14.5 PERSIMMONS
5 persimmons for 5,000kw from Choryang Market
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Huge pear and apple for comparison
4. BEAUTIFUL SCENERY-THERAPEUTIC TO THE SOUL
4.1 HAEUNDAE BEACH
Haeundae Beach is a most famous and beautiful beach in Busan. The white sand beach is about 1.5km long and 50m wide creating a beautiful coastline. There are several cultural events and festivals held at the beach during summer including the popular SAND FESTIVAL. We missed this event as it was held at a later date from 23 May 2017.
4.2 DALMAJI & MOONTAN ROAD
Many people come to Dalmaji Road and Moontan Road to view cherry blossom in spring.But it is also a great place to take a stroll and can even catch a glimpse of the Japanese island of Tsushima on the horizon.
This is the route map for directions.
We went there from the Haeundae Beach.
Facing the beach, turn left
Walk past the Pale de CZ to the end of the beach.
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| Entrance to Dalmaji Road |
At the top of the hill, there will be a large intersection.
Turn right and walk up a tree lined walkway.
Turn right and walk up a tree lined walkway.
Many cherry blossom trees line the walkway.
Though it was way past the full bloom, we still managed a sneak preview of the last bloom.
The flowers in clusters were still hanging there beautifully!
The walk was cooling and refreshing.
You will also see this building with a unique tree planted like a bonsai.
After about 15 min walk, you will see Point View which is a great place to take photos and look back at Haeundae Beach from a higher altitude and a longer distance.
Another 15 min walk will bring you to the Haewoljeong Pavilion, overlooking the sea.
There is a public toilet nearby.
Another slow walk of 10 min brings you to an area with coffee joints such as Holly's Coffee and food outlets such as Alexander Restaurant.
Another 15 min walk will bring you to the Haewoljeong Pavilion, overlooking the sea.
There is a public toilet nearby.
Another slow walk of 10 min brings you to an area with coffee joints such as Holly's Coffee and food outlets such as Alexander Restaurant.
From Holly's Coffee, cross over the street for the hiking trail to the beach.
We walked down a slope for about 20 min and found the disused railway track.
Part of the disused railway track viewed from Dalmaji hill
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| Eaul Madang |
The last point of interest seen from Dalmaji Hill before walking down the slope is the Eaul Madang.
At the bottom of the trail, we saw the disused railway track.
Turn left and walk to the area which has a white and a red lighthouse to take photos and breathe in the sea view from the Cheongsapo Harbour.
Turn right and walk back to Haeundae Beach.
The 40 min walk back to the beach was tiresome and slow as we had to tread on rocks covering the tracks.
But it was worth it as we were welcomed by colorful flowers forming a heart shape and a beautifully decorated train.
This is the start point to the walk on the disused railway track.
4.3 JUKSEONG DREAM CHURCH
Take bus 1003 near Haeundae Tourist Information Center and alight at Gijang Catholic Church. Travel time was about 50min. |
| Bus Stop for return trip in front of Gijang Catholic Church |
Otherwise, share a taxi costing about 4,000kw for about 10min journey.
The church in its white outfit was such a beauty standing tall against the clear blue sky and deep emerald sea.
We walked out to the road to catch the village bus back to Gijang Catholic church. The photo shows the direction of the arriving village bus after visiting the dream church.For return trip, we took bus 39 and alighted at Mipo-Moon Tan Road to visit emart, Haeundae
4.4 DONGBAEK ISLAND
Facing the beach, turn right and walk to the end where Westin Chosun Hotel is for the start of the broadwalk to the Dongbaek Island.
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| Air blowing the sand from the legs |
As there were some construction work after visiting the first stop of the mermaid statue, we had to walk back to start the point and continue our walk to the Nurimaru APEC House and the lighthouse.
If u wish to visit the statue of the Korean scholar, Choi Chi San, then you will need to walk up a steep slope midway walking the pavement. But the walk will draw you closer to nature as you will be embraced by pine trees, camellias, chirping sounds of birds and sights of squirrels running about their playground.
After the visit, we walked down the other slope away from the statue which brought us to the lighthouse and the APEC HOUSE.
These view points provide stunning views of Haeundae beach.
4.5 CENTUM CITY
We wanted to check out Asia' s largest, shopping mall and took the subway to Centum City and was first met with Lotte Trevli Plaza.
4.6 MILLAK WATERFRONT
After lunch, we walked past Shinsegae towards APEC Naru Park and crossed the Suyeong bridge to Millak Subway. 
The walk through the park was cooling and refreshing. Greeneries and mixtures of colors. Good for the eyes.
Looking back to the park from the bridge
Great sights when crossing the bridge
After crossing the bridge, cross the street and walk straight for about 10min to Millak Subway. To get to Millak Raw Fish Center, locate exit 1 at the Millak Subway and take bus 210 to Millak Waterfront.
4.7 GWANGANDAEGYO OR DIAMOND BRIDGE
After dinner, we walked to the sheltered viewing area to watch the LED lights at the Gwangandaegyo or Diamond Bridge. As it was raining in the evening, the view not spectacular.
4.8 JANGSAN NEIGHBOURHOOD NEAR THE SUBWAY
Our trips have always included visits to the neighbourhoods to see how the locals lived.
We explored the Jangsan neighbourhood by walking from Haeundae via Jungdong to Jangsan Subway.
The walk away from the Haeundae beach area was serene and calm with lesser people on the streets. We came across many eateries, retail shops and this public foot spa park which was closed for cleaning.We had a similar experience with public foot spa in Beitou, Taipei.
When we arrived at Jangsan, we saw many trucks pedaling their wares from snacks to fruits and vegetables. 
4.9 BAY 101
We checked out Bay 101 at Haeundae which is located in the culture and art complex and attracts many visitors.
Night scene at Bay 101 with many people gathering for food and entertainment
4.10 POJANGMACHAS
Pojangmachas lined and brighten up the scene at the Haeundae Beach when you walk away from Bay 101
Pojangmachas are small tented food stalls with a few seats selling local korean food and seafood.
4.11 BUJEON MARKET
Bujeon market is about 15 minutes walking distance to Seomyeon using either the Seomyeon Underground Shopping Mall or on street level. The stalls basically sold the same things; teobokki, pajeon, korean fish cakes in broth. But we were surprised that there were no stalls selling the popular korean snack, ssiat hotteok!
Octopus everywhere. We passed up the once in a lifetime experience to eat the moving tentacles!
Take subway to Toseong station, exit 6 to street level. 
Turn right and walk 50m past Busan Hospital, another 50m to bus stop in front of Busan Cancer Center. 
Take village bus 1-1, 2-2 or 2 to top of hill where the entrance of Gamcheon is located. For return trip, cross the road to take bus in opposite direction from where you alighted on arrival.
This is the entrance to Gamcheon Village.We did not buy the map but just followed the winding road downhill to the bottom.
On reaching bottom, we walked away from the sign that directed people to the bus stop and walked uphill.
It was tiring but worth it.
The myriad of vibrant colors was therapeutic to the mind, body and soul. 
Toilets are easily available and there were a few cafes. 
We chanced upon an outdoor wooden shelter to rest our feet and had our packed lunch.
4.12 TAEJONGDAE
Take bus 88 across the street from H&M store in Seomyeon and alight at Taejondae Elementary School which is the last stop. Journey is about 1hr. 
From bus stop, walk about 5min to the entrance. Walk another 5min to the office to buy tickets for the Danude Train. Prices have gone up to 3,000kw.
As we were buying tickets at the counter, the train left without us. Instead of waiting for the next train, we walked 300m to explore Pebble Beach and walked back to the ticket office as train did not stop at Pebble Beach to pick us up even though it was a stopping point with benches and clearly marked boxes for the train.
Next, we alighted at the observatory to take photos of the Tea Kettle Island 
Walk 200m to the Yeongdo Lighthouse which is the main attraction.
We walked up the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse to have a panaromic of view of the surrounding.
At the bottom near the shore, there were few tents selling seafood. We could see the ahjummas climbing down the rocks to scrap mollusks.
We noticed there were barricades to stop people from entering the building and the Sinseon and Mangbu Rock. As it was closed to the public, we were unable to trek down as planned to experience sitting at the edge of the cliff, feel the freedom and the heightened adrenaline of the adventure.
4.13 BUSAN STATION4.14 ORYUKDO SKYWALK AND ISLAND
Take subway to Busan station exit 10 and transfer to bus 27.
Alight at SK VIEW HUMUN which is the last stop.
Alternatively, take bus 88 opposite Seomyeom station and alight at Busan Station and transfer to bus 27
Alight at SK VIEW HUMUN which is the last stop.
Alternatively, take bus 88 opposite Seomyeom station and alight at Busan Station and transfer to bus 27
At the entrance, you have to put on an extra black fabric shoe over your own shoes before accessing the Skywalk.This is the end point where you can see through to the bottom where the waves crashes and hits on to the rocks.
We could identify the islands when we were there.
We witnessed the lifting of the Yeongdodaegyo Bridge from 1400 to 1415hrs. 
Huge umbrellas were opened for those who came to witness the bridge lifting.
Man at work to close up the huge umbrella after the event was over
Replica of Yeongdodaegyo bridge lifting cast in stone at the Skypark on13th floor of Lotte Mall, Gwangbok
4.16 YONGDUSAN TOWER AND PARKEscalator to Yongdusan Park and Tower from one of the alley along Gwangbok Fashion Street
Yongdusan Tower was closed for renovation during our trip.
Clock at the Yongdusan Park
Spotted a sparrow lazing around at Yongdusan Park.
4.17 BUSAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BIFF)BIFF has contributed to Busan as an international cultural tourist city which attracts many tourists and youngsters
4.18 GUJKE MARKET
It is one of Korea's largest market and comparable to Namdaemun Market in Seoul. it offers a wide variety of goods and is popular with locals and foreigners.
Here is shown the Gukje Market Food Street which is just next to BIFF Square.
4.19 JAGALCHI FISH MARKETThis market is famous for its fresh seafood and most of the vendors are middle aged women called Ahjummas in Korean.
As we have already tried the snow crab in Gijang and raw fish at Millak, we did not try any seafood here as many bloggers shared that the prices were more expensive here.
4.20 GWANGBOKDONG FASHION STREET
This street is the heart of fashion, art, culture and shopping in Busan.
It stretches from escalator entrance to Yongdusan Park to Gukje Market and is the "Myeongdong" of Busan.
alexjoshua
13 June 2017
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