Temples, Towers, and Street Food: My Evolving Journey Through Busan

Busan has become one of those cities I keep returning to, and with good reason. As South Korea’s second-largest city and busiest port, it’s an easy stop for cruise travelers, but what makes it memorable is how it blends ancient culture with a vibrant, modern edge. Whether you’re climbing up temple stairs, wandering neon-lit shopping streets, or gazing out from a tower above the skyline, Busan keeps unfolding.

My first visit came in summer 2023 via cruise ship. I joined a ship-sponsored excursion that kicked off at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the few oceanside temples in South Korea. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks below created this peaceful, cinematic atmosphere you don’t usually associate with temple visits. I explored the Zodiac Garden, where each sign is represented by its own statue, and paused at Sirangdae, a lookout tucked into the temple grounds.

From there, we continued to Dongbaekseom (also called Dongbaek Island), where a shaded walking trail circles the coast and leads to panoramic ocean views. Later in the day, we stopped at Yongdusan Park, a central green space with sculptures, shrines, and a view up to Busan Tower. I didn’t have time to go up then, but I remember thinking, “Next time, for sure.” We wrapped up the excursion at Jagalchi Fish Market, where seafood of every texture, smell, and color was being prepped and sold, some of it still wiggling.

That “next time” came in spring 2025, and this time I explored Busan on my own. I spent most of my visit around Nampo-dong, Gwangbok-ro, and BIFF Square, walking among street food vendors, local boutiques, and the film statues along Film Memorial Street. There’s a quirky charm to seeing golden sculptures of movie characters lining the sidewalks of a busy shopping district.

I made my way back to Yongdusan Park, where I finally took the elevator up Busan Tower. The view from the top was everything I’d hoped for, a sweeping cityscape tucked between the sea and forested hills. It was one of those perfect travel moments where you get a little perspective, both literally and figuratively.

Busan is a city that rewards repeat visits. Whether you’re interested in history, coastal views, modern culture, or just a solid bowl of hot street food, there’s always something new waiting just around the corner.