Gyeongsang Province sits in Korea’s southeastern region and features a variety of beautiful destinations with cultural and historical significance. Here you can enjoy the breathtaking South Sea from Busan, Tongyeong and Gyeongju cities.

Of the three major cities in the province, Busan stands out as the hands-down top summer vacation spot. Neighboring Tongyeong City offers a comparatively relaxing travel experience while featuring numerous recreational activities. Gyeongju City is one of Korea’s most historically significant cities, offering a glimpse into the ancient Silla Kingdom. Often called a museum without walls, the city is filled with historic sites and relics. When traveling through Korea’s southeastern region, make sure to add these three cities to your itinerary to experience rich nature, history and culture in a single journey.

Tongyeong, often called the Naples of Korea, is home to Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park, known for its stunning southern coastline.

Beyond its beautiful landscape, Tongyeong holds deep historical significance. During the Joseon Dynasty, the city served as a key naval headquarters under Admiral Yi Sun-sin. From these waters, Admiral Yi led numerous naval battles to defend the Korean Peninsula from Japanese invasions. Although his forces were heavily outnumbered and had fewer warships, he never lost a single battle with his turtle ships. Now, Admiral Yi Sun-sin is remembered as a national hero.

Today, many visitors come to Tongyeong to connect with his legacy, enjoy the breathtaking views of Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park, and explore a variety of outdoor adventures.

1. Hansando Island and Jeseungdang Shrine

Hansando Island is one of Tongyeong’s most meaningful destinations. The island is home to Jeseungdang Shrine, which served as Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s command post. It is also the site of the Battle of Hansando, one of the most significant naval victories Admiral Yi achieved during the Imjin War (1592–1598).

Located in the heart of Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park, the island is only accessible by ferry. Visitors can check ferry schedules online and enjoy a tranquil walk through the island, blending Korea’s naval history with the natural beauty of the southern sea.

2. Admiral Yi Sun-sin Park

The park commemorates Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s major victory here and features a bronze statue of the admiral facing Hansando Island. The park is known for its beautiful walking trails along the clear blue South Sea. No admission fee is required.

Address: 688-1, Jeongnyang-dong, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

3. Joseon Naval Ships

Near the park, there are four turtle ship replicas where visitors can explore and observe these warships up close. Visitors also get a chance to try on the Joseon navy uniform. This is a fun spot to check out, especially for kids.

• Address: 236, Jungang-dong, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)

• Tickets: Adults 1,500 won / Teens 1,100 won / Children 500 won

4. Tongyeong Hansan Battle Festival

Every year in August, the Battle of Hansando is commemorated through the Tongyeong Hansan Battle Festival. The festival focuses on honoring Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s naval victories as well as Korea’s naval forces. Programs include historical performances, reenactments of the Battle of Hansando, cultural events, fireworks and the ROK Marine Corps parade. The festival usually runs for about a week and it’s considered the best time to visit Tongyeong. The dates vary each year, so visit the website for more details.

• Address: Around Admiral Yi Sun-sin park and Hansando Island

• Website

1. Tongyeong Cable Car

Hop on the Tongyeong Cable Car at the foot of Mt. Mireuksan for a quick nine-minute ride to the top for a panoramic view of the Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park. In addition, the peak has a skywalk, observatory and photo zones for some great pics. If you have tickets for other attractions such as Skyline Luge or Adventure Tower, a discount is available. Booking through Naver also offers discount tickets.

• Address: 205 Balgae-ro, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on the second and fourth Wednesdays / hours may vary depending on weather)

• Tickets: Adults 17,000 won / Children 13,000 won (Round trip)

2. Skyline Luge

Skyline Luge is one of the most popular leisure attractions in Tongyeong, offering an exciting ride along long winding tracks. Riders control their own luge carts while navigating different courses. Located at the base of Mt. Mireuksan, the luge is next to the Tongyeong Cable Car, and discounted combo tickets are available for visitors who plan to enjoy both attractions.

To ride alone, visitors must be at least 110 cm (about 3 ft 7 in) tall. Children between 85 and 110 cm (about 2 ft 9 in–3 ft 7 in) may ride with a guardian who is at least 150 cm (about. 4 ft 11 in) tall.

• Address: 178 Balgae-ro, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Tickets: 30,000 won for 2 trips / 33,000 won for 3 trips / 36,000 won for 4 trips (Discount is available through Naver or with a cable car ticket)

3. Adventure Tower

Adventure Tower is an outdoor activity facility where visitors can enjoy climbing and obstacle-course experiences at various difficulty levels. The structure rises 15 meters (about 49 ft) and features a total of 96 courses, divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced sections. Participants wear safety equipment before entering the course with rope, bridges and elevated obstacles. Only visitors weighing between 25 and 100 kg (about 55–220 lb) are allowed to participate.

• Address: 172-12 Balgae-ro, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Closed second and fourth Monday)

• Tickets: Adults 19,000 won / Teens 17,000 won / Children 12,000 won

4. Tongyeong Ferry Tour (daytime)

The ferry tour allows you to explore the battlefields of the Imjin War, Jeseungdang Shrine and Hansando Island. Also, you can choose a tour course for Jangsado Island Maritime Park, renowned for camellia flowers that blossom between January and February. All prices are for round trips. You can book a ticket on-site if there is an available seat. Booking through Naver offers a discount. Don’t forget to bring your ID card!

• Address: 2nd floor, 269-38 Donam-ro, Tongyeong-si, Naver Map

• Hansando Island: The ferry leaves every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m (2-hour trip)

• Jangsado Island: 10 a.m. / 1 p.m. (3.5-hour trip)

• Tickets: Adults 18,000-25,000 won / Children 12,000-16,000 won

• Website

5. Chungmugong Ferry Tour (nighttime)

When you take a night ferry here, it’s easy to see why Tongyeong is often called the Naples of Korea. As the lights of Tongyeong Bridge reflect in rainbow colors across the southern sea, the city’s nighttime scenery is what makes the ferry ride memorable. On the weekends, visitors can enjoy fireworks on the cruise as well.

Passengers must arrive 20 minutes in advance with their ID card.

• Address: The same place as Tongyeong Ferry Tour, but the ticket booth is located on the 1st floor. 

• Hours: 5:30 p.m. (Sun–Fri) / 7 p.m. (Sat and holidays)

• Duration: 1 hour

• Tickets: Adults 25,500–35,000 won / Children 17,000 won–25,000 won (Naver offers discounted tickets)

• Website (Only in Korean)

(Note: Schedules may vary based on weather, so it is recommended to check the website before visiting)

As Korea’s second largest city, Busan is constantly abuzz with activity. In the summer, it is a favorite vacation spot thanks to its fun attractions and beautiful beaches. The city is home to two landmark beaches, Gwangalli and Haeundae, drawing crowds year-round to their shores of soft white sand and pristine blue waters.

Despite their proximity to each other, the beaches each have their own distinct appeal. Visiting both is a must, but here are all the fun activities you can do at each one.

Gwangalli Beach combines beautiful beach views with a lively neighborhood popular among young adults.

1. Enjoy ocean views

Take a stroll on the streets near the beach and stop in at the many trendy cafés and restaurants. These are a haven for visitors seeking the perfect blend of Busan’s ocean views, photogenic interiors and delightful treats. Here are three ocean view spots to check out!

・Millac The Market

A multi-cultural complex, this is one of the hottest spots among locals for its unique interiors, trendy cafes restaurants and fun pop-up stores.

• Address: 56, Millaksubyeon-ro 17beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – midnight

・Ddubucks Gwangan

Enjoy croffles, desserts and a variety of beverages at this stunning café.

• Address: 7th floor, 239 Gwangan-haebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.) / 10 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. (Sat-Sun.)

・Sandys

This café is well-known for its delicious cakes, so definitely save room for dessert.

• Address: 5th floor, 38-1 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

2. Night view and drone show

The night views of Gwangalli Beach, illuminated by the spectacular lights of Gwangan Bridge, are mesmerizing. Every Saturday night, a 10-minute drone light show adds even more excitement to the stunning view, creating a festive atmosphere.

Drone Light Show (Saturdays)

• Mar. – Sep.: 8 p.m. & 10 p.m.

• Oct. – Feb.: 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.

3. Diverse water activities

Gwangalli Beach is a year-round marine activity destination, offering jet skis, banana boats, water playgrounds and even bubble parties during the summer. Surfing and paddle boarding continue until early fall, and some places continue to operate yacht tours during the winter months.

・Gwangalli Marine Leisure Sports Center

• Address: 222 Gwangan-haebyeon-ro 54 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

・Crazy Surfers

• Address: 29 Gwangnam-ro 48beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 8:30 a.m.–7 p.m. (Mar.–Nov.) / 8:30 a.m.–9 p.m. (Jul.–Aug.) / 9 a.m.–9 p.m. (Dec.–Feb.)

Haeundae Beach caters to visitors of all ages, including families with children. With its magical views and vigorous waves, the beach remains beloved by all who visit Busan.

1. The Bay 101 - Night view of Marine City

Surrounded by high-rise buildings of Marine City, this multi-cultural complex showcases a splendid night view unique to Busan. Capturing magical night view photos while enjoying beer and fish & chips at The Bay 101 is a must in Haeundae.

• Address: 52 Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu, Naver Map

• Hours: 8 a.m. – midnight

2. Yacht tour

Take a one-hour yacht tour for panoramic views of Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches. Sunset yacht tours, which include fireworks, are especially recommended.

Most yacht tour shops offer the same deal. Most tour operators, like the one you can take from The Bay 101, have yacht tickets that include free water, beverages, tea, blankets, hot packs and fireworks for the night tour.

・The Bay 101 Yacht Club

Course: The Bay 101➟Dongbackseom Island ➟ Haundae Beach ➟ Gwangan Bridge ➟ Gwangalli Beach ➟ Subyeon Park ➟ Marine City ➟ The Bay 101

• Duration: 1 hour

• Tickets: Day tour 15,000 won / Sunset & Night tour 25,000 won

• Yacht tour/ Booking through Klook

• Naver Map

3. Iconic festivals

Haeundae Beach hosts a number of popular festivals annually, including the Busan International Film Festival, Polar Bear Festival, and New Year Festival. Here is the website for more information about festivals in Haeundae.

・Haeundae Light Festival

During the winter, enjoy beautiful illuminations alongside the winter sea.

• Dates: Until Jan. 18, 2026

• Hours: 6 – 11 p.m.

• Website

・Haeundae Sand Festival

Every May, one of the greatest sand festivals takes place in Haeundae, featuring fascinating sand artworks from artists worldwide.

Dates: May (The specific dates vary every year)

Gyeongju City, known as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla (57 BC-935), is a unique destination brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors can forge a special connection to Korea’s rich history while exploring every corner of the city often referred to as a museum without walls.

You can appreciate this blending of the past and present in Downtown Gyeongju. Here are three activities in the city’s downtown area that will undoubtedly make your trip unforgettable!

1. Wearing a Silla hanbok

Wearing hanbok, Korea’s traditional clothing, is a must-try experience at many historical sites around the Peninsula. In Geongju, you’ll find two types of hanboks, Joseon hanbok and Silla hanbok, which is available only in this city. The Silla hanbok is more luxurious and features more elaborate designs than those of the later Joseon Dynasty.

Rent a Silla hanbok and take some stunning photos at beautiful historical sites, such as Daereungwon Ancient Tombs and Woljeonggyo Bridge, as if you are Silla royalty.

Hanbok rental usually includes hairstyling service. Most shops don’t offer rental service during rainy weather. Late March to June and September to November are ideal times to try this activity. Wearing hanbok in hot or cold weather isn’t ideal, so make sure to check the weather before your visit.

・Doldam-gil Hanbok

Located near Daereungwon, they rent hanboks originally designed by them. Reservation is recommended (Naver or phone)

• Address: 30-5, Cheomseong-ro 99beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Naver Map+ Booking

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Closed on Tuesdays)

• Prices: Joseon hanbok 16,000 won for two hours / Silla hanbok 25,000 won for two hours, all day 50,000 won

・Gyochon Hanbok

It’s located near Gyochon Hanok Village and reservation by phone call is recommended.

• Address: 39-6, Kyochon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

• Phone: 010-5875-0852

• Prices: 15,000 won for an hour (10,000 won is charged every one hour)

2. Bicycle trips

Downtown Gyeongju is a cyclist’s dream as it is easy to explore via bicycle and most destinations are a short ride away.

Tasilla (타실라) is a public bicycle service operated by Gyeongju City, with over 100 rental stations in the downtown area. You can easily rent one and return it to any station. The one-day pass is only 1,000 won and bikes are easy to rent with the mobile app. However, the app only provides services in Korean, so you will need to inquire by phone with the staff. Also, using Tasilla requires a Korean phone number.

Recommended course: Daereungwon Stone Wall Trail ➟ Hwanglidan-gil Street ➟ Cheomseongdae Observatory ➟ Gyerim Forest ➟ Banwolseong Fortress ➟ Gyochon Hanok Village and Woljeonggyo Bridge ➟ Bunhwangsa Temple

• Tasilla website

• Phone: 054-775-1472

Gyeongju Scooter

Check out this bicycle rental shop if you want a quick and simple rental service. Various types of bicycles and scooters are available.

• Address: 2, Taejong-ro 685 beon-gil, Naver Map

• Hours: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

3. Hanok café tours

Hwanglidan-gil Street is a true gem in Gyeongju. This street is home to a variety of cool cafés and restaurants in traditional Hanok houses. Many places offer unique fusion food and desserts that look as good as they taste.

・Skunk Works

One of the most beautiful hanok cafés in Gyeongju with ice cream and coffee.

• Address: 1058-3, Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

・Cafe Marche

Café Marche offers great breakfast options including pancakes and French toast. The café is also known for its cakes and pies.

• Address: Cheomseongro 81 beongil 22-7, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:15 a.m.–5 p.m. (Tue.–Fri.) / 9:15 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sat.–Sun.) / Closed on Mondays

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Café

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