Venturing beyond Seoul offers a rich tapestry of experiences in South Korea. The southern cities of Busan and Jeju Island, each with their unique allure, are easily accessible and offer distinct flavors of Korean culture and natural beauty.
Journey to Busan by KTX: Enjoying the Ride
The KTX (Korea Train eXpress) provides a swift and comfortable journey from Seoul to Busan. Here's how to make the most of your train ride:
Scenic Views: As the train speeds south, enjoy the changing landscapes of the Korean countryside, from rolling hills to fields and glimpses of traditional villages.
Onboard Amenities: KTX trains offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and vending machines or snack carts, allowing you to relax and stay connected.
Plan Your Entertainment: Bring a book, download movies or shows, or simply enjoy the scenery passing by. It's a great time to plan your Busan itinerary.
Purchase Snacks and Drinks: Grab some Korean snacks and ㅑdrinks at the train station before boarding to enhance your journey.
Busan: A Vibrant Coastal City
Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, boasts a dynamic blend of beaches, markets, and cultural attractions:
Must-Visit Places:
Haeundae Beach: A famous stretch of sand perfect for strolling, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Jagalchi Fish Market: A bustling seafood market where you can witness the vibrant trade and sample incredibly fresh seafood.
Gamcheon Culture Village: Explore this colorful hillside village adorned with vibrant murals and art installations.
BIFF Square: The heart of Busan's film industry, with handprints of famous directors and actors.
Taejongdae Park: A scenic coastal park with dramatic cliffs, forests, and ocean views.
BTS Related Spots: While Busan is the hometown of BTS members Jimin and Jungkook, specific locations they frequented as trainees or before their debut might be private or less publicly known. However, you can explore areas like their former high schools or neighborhoods they mentioned in interviews, keeping in mind these are often residential areas. Dedicated fan-created spots or cafes related to them might exist, so a quick online search closer to your travel dates can yield the most up-to-date information.
Purchasing KTX Tickets:
On-site Purchase: You can buy KTX tickets directly at the ticket counters in major train stations like Seoul Station. Be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak travel times.
KORAIL App: The most convenient way is to use the KORAIL (Korea Railroad Corporation) mobile application. You can browse schedules, check seat availability, and purchase tickets directly through the app. You'll need to register, and while the app might have some English support, be prepared for some Korean language elements. Having a Korean phone number can sometimes simplify the registration process. Credit/debit cards are usually accepted.
Jeju Island: A Volcanic Paradise
Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning natural landscapes and unique local specialties:
Must-Try:
Jeju Tangerine Ice Cream: Indulge in the refreshing and tangy flavor of locally grown tangerine ice cream, widely available across the island.
Tangerine Picking Experience: Depending on the season (typically late autumn to early winter), you can participate in tangerine picking experiences at local farms, enjoying the fresh fruit straight from the tree. The peak season for the best-tasting tangerines is generally from late October to February.
Jeju Black Pork BBQ: Savor the unique and flavorful grilled black pork, a local delicacy known for its rich taste and texture. Numerous restaurants across the island specialize in this dish.
Things to Do & Scenic Spots:
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): Hike to the top of this volcanic cone for breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise.
Hallasan National Park: Explore South Korea's highest mountain, offering diverse hiking trails and stunning natural beauty.
Manjanggul Lava Tube: Discover the impressive underground world of this extensive lava cave system.
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall: Admire the picturesque waterfall cascading into a pond.
Olle Trails: Hike sections of the famous Jeju Olle Trails, a network of scenic walking paths that circumnavigate the island.
Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches like Hyeopjae or Woljeongri, known for their white sand and turquoise waters.
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