Bid the beach farewell and head up to this lofty lighthouse for one of Busan’s best seaside views.
Words and shots by Mike Luedke
About Taejongdae Park
Busan visitors might list Gwangalli or Haeundae Beach as the best places to see the ocean. But if you are looking for a hidden gem, a less well-known but equally remarkable then you need to visit Taejongdae Park.
Taejongdae Park is located on the island just south of Busan Station. The island’s 250-meter peak is surrounded on all sides by a path that leads you through the main sites. You can choose to walk along the path (about 1 hour from Taejongdae Park entrance to the furthest point). Alternately, a tour bus operates at 30-40 minute intervals (Around ₩1,500 for adults).
What To See At Taejongdae Park
At the entrance to Taejongdae Park, keep an eye out for a monolith that stands as a tribute to the countries that provided medical support to Korea during the war. If you proceed along the path, you’ll find a scenic observation deck providing spectacular views of ships passing through the port and, on clear days, Japan’s Tsushima Island.
Continuing along, the path winds up to its payoff. The Yeongdo Lighthouse Observation Point at Taejongdae Park stands on the edge of a steep cliff. A winding staircase allows visitors to stroll along a large, flat rock platform that legend claims is the place where pale gods went to catch some rays. Almost 120,000 years of rock layers can be seen from this platform.
Near this lighthouse, Gumyeong Temple stands as a tribute to saving life. It was built because these cliffs were once an infamous suicide spot.
After spending a few hours hiking along the scenic path and enjoying Taejongdae Park’s natural scenery, hungry visitors can find their way to the shellfish village near the entrance to the park. The famous dining location puts guests on a pebble beach with a seaside view to complement their grilled shellfish.
And hey! Since you’re already visiting Busan, you might want to check our guide for your trip in Busan.