Korean Travel Recommendations: Taejongdae, a Perfect Place for Nature and Sea Lovers
Busan Travel Recommendation: Taejongdae, A Place to Enjoy Nature and the Sea
Among the many famous attractions in Busan, one of my absolute favorites is Taejongdae. Located at the southern tip of Yeongdo-gu, Busan, Taejongdae is a stunning blend of the sea, forests, and sheer cliffs. It’s a place I always visit when I want to feel nature with all my senses.
How to Get to Taejongdae
To get to Taejongdae, take Subway Line 1 and get off at either Nampo Station or Busan Station. From there, you can easily catch a bus (such as bus 88 or 101) that will take you directly to Taejongdae. Nampo-dong and Taejongdae are quite close to each other, so it’s a great idea to plan your trip to both spots together.
If you start from Nampo-dong, you’ll enjoy a lovely view of the Busan port from the bus window as you head towards Taejongdae, and before you know it, you’ll arrive.
When you arrive at the entrance of Taejongdae, you’ll find a spacious plaza and a large parking lot, making it convenient if you’re driving.
Highlights of Taejongdae
Danubi Train Ride
Taejongdae is quite large, so walking through the entire park can be exhausting. Many visitors, including myself, opt to take the Danubi Train to explore the main spots quickly. The train operates in a circular route, and you can get off at any station to explore at your own pace, which makes it very convenient.
Taejongsa Temple and the Hydrangea Path
The first stop I made after hopping on the Danubi Train was Taejongsa Temple. During the summer, the area around the temple is full of blooming hydrangeas. When I visited, the flowers were just beginning to bloom, and the flower path under the clear blue sky was absolutely beautiful. It’s the perfect spot for a photo with the hydrangeas!
Observatory
As you continue walking, you’ll reach an observatory that offers a panoramic view of the sea. On clear days, you can even see Tsushima Island in Japan in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to take pictures against the stunning backdrop of the sea.
Yeongdo Lighthouse and Cliffs
The highlight of Taejongdae is undoubtedly the Yeongdo Lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs. Listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks while gazing at the sheer cliffs is incredibly soothing. I sat on a bench for a long time, just staring at the ocean, and I felt a sense of peace that was hard to describe. Be sure to take pictures near the cliffs, as it’s a great spot for some “SNS-worthy” shots!
Recommended Points in Taejongdae
- 🚂 Danubi Train: A great way to explore the park without tiring yourself out.
- 🌿 Hydrangea Festival (Around June): The hydrangea path is at its most beautiful in June, surrounded by vibrant flowers.
- 📸 Observatory Photos: Get some amazing travel photos with the blue sky and sea as the backdrop.
- 🌊 Yeongdo Lighthouse and the Cliffs: Don’t miss the cliffs for an awe-inspiring natural experience.
Suggested Taejongdae Course (About 2-3 Hour Course)
- Arrive at the Taejongdae entrance → Take the Danubi Train
- First stop: Taejongsa Temple (Walk through the hydrangea path and take photos)
- Second stop: Observatory (Enjoy the sea view and take a break)
- Final stop: Yeongdo Lighthouse (Admire the cliffs and lighthouse, take a walk)
- Return to the entrance by Danubi Train or leisurely walk back
👉 If you’re feeling up to it, I recommend walking the forest trail from Yeongdo Lighthouse to the entrance. The sea breeze between the trees is refreshing, and you might even spot a little squirrel 🐿️!
Conclusion
If you’re a traveler who loves to walk in nature, see the sea, and find some peace, Taejongdae is the perfect choice. Be sure to include it in your Busan itinerary—you’ll feel like you’ve been gifted a leisurely day!