Seoul is a justly popular location, however it’s barely the just big city in South Korea that warrants checking out. Spread around the nation are cities where high-rise buildings edge the shoreline, cities of temples and pagodas that protect the nation’s ancient history, and city centres at the cutting edge of contemporary innovations. Some, like Busan, are beginning to go far on their own on the worldwide scene, however numerous stay charmingly under the radar.
1. Busan
Best for a seaside break
Consider a minimum of a weekend to check out South Korea’s contemporary city-by-the-sea in the south east, whether you wish to ride the waves, check out a seaside park or lease a beach umbrella and kick back for the day. The city is home to Jagalchi, the nation’s biggest fish market [to hyperlink street food experiences eyewitness]where you can delight in all way of seafood. Do not miss out on Haedong Yonggungsa, among couple of temple complexes in the nation to be set on the beach. And when night falls, head to Gwangalli Beach to enjoy the Gwangandaegyo Suspension Bridge twinkle to life in all colours of the rainbow.
(Check out the very best methods to experience Busan.
2. Gyeongju
Best for history
Make certain to set up time for checking out the ‘museum without walls’ on the southeastern coast. Gyeongju was the capital of Silla, among Korea’s 3 ancient kingdoms– a dynasty that entered power in 57 BCE, merged the peninsula in 668 CE and continued to rule for nearly 3 centuries. Numerous temples, palaces, shrines and works of Buddhist art are maintained here, leading some to draw contrasts with Kyoto in Japan. Admire pagodas and royal burial places before going to UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a 30-minute bus trip away. From here, a two-mile walking causes the hermitage of Seokguram Grotto, popular for its Buddhist sculptures and views out over the sea.
3. Daejeon
Best for development
You’ll hear Koreans call Daejeon their Silicon Valley: this main city is the heart of the nation’s science and innovation sector, hosting research study institutes for Samsung, LG and some 200 other business. For tourists, this equates into a sense of a location quickly increasing. There’s a futuristic footbridge that illuminate in the evening, and Skyroad, a dining and shopping road topped with LED panels. Themed experiences consist of the National Science Museum, where displays check out Korean developments and future innovations. Simply outside the city however relatively a world away is mountainous Gyeryongsan National Park– Daejeonites’ preferred escape for an area for treking.
4. Gwangju
Best for kimchi
Found near the nation’s southwestern idea, the so-called ‘city of kimchi’ declares to have actually created the pungent banchan (side meal)– and to produce the tastiest. It’s home to the World Institute of Kimchi, which studies the science of fermentation; Kimchi Town, an interactive museum; and a devoted celebration, which occurs each November. Guests can take part in kimjang, the common kimchi-making procedure,