Photos by Richard Walker ()
Looking for something to do while you’re in Gimhae? You’re in luck, there’s more than you might expect.
Many people think Gimhae is just the airport and a light rail to somewhere else. It’s more than that, I promise!
Gimhae is located in an area that was a separate kingdom for hundreds of years called Gaya. It had its own culture that influenced the entire country. The Korean stringed instrument Gayageum was actually invented there.
Now, it offers the largest waterpark in Korea, tons of green spaces, a thriving international community, neolithic artifacts and more cafes than you can shake a stick at.
Royal Tomb of King Suro
Gimhae is home to the first recorded international marriage in Korea between an Indian princess and a local king. You can actually visit their burial mounds in the Tomb of King Suro and Tomb of Queen Heo.
The king’s tomb itself is a nice public park with traditional Korean buildings, walls and tranquility.
After that, grab a nice coffee at Haeidam right outside.
The queen’s burial mound has a quieter atmosphere and is just north east of there.
Royal Tomb of King Suro, 26 Garak-ro 93beon-gil, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Royal Tomb of Queen Heo, 120 Gusandong, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Global Food Town
If you’re in the mood for affordable non-Korean food, check out the Global Food Town where you can feast on Thai, Sri Lankan, Uzbek and Indonesian cuisines to name a few.
I highly recommend trying Uzbek food, it’s meaty, hearty and not too spicy.
Global Food Town, 101-2 Hoehyeon-dong, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Yeonji Park
Want to take a break from the city but don’t have much time? Check out one of the many beautiful parks like Yeonji. It has a huge lake complete with fountains, lotus flowers and a variety of birds such as Egrets.
Yeonji Park, 7 Geumgwan-daero 1368beon-gil, Nae-dong, Gimhae, Gyeongsangnam-do
Nakdonggang River Rail Park
Ever drank wine in a cave? It’s raspberry wine, but it does the trick. The Wine Cave has an underground bunker vibe that just adds to the experience. There’s also a rail bike you can pedal for some nice views of the river. Maybe do that one first.
Lotte Water Park
If you have a whole day and want some pool time with the whole family, head over to the largest water park in South Korea, Lotte Water Park. They have a wave pool and some fun slides that are sure to keep you busy for a while.
Gimhae Lotte Water Park, 555, Jangyu-ro, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Lotte Premium Outlet
Coming from the States, you might not be impressed by the selection this outlet has to offer. However, it’s great if you need some new threads or a Korean gift. The outlet is right next door to the waterpark, so it’s easy to bundle them.
Lotte Premium Outlets, 469, Jangyu-ro, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Check out Lingua Asia for more shopping, business and travel tips in South Korea!
