Places to go for an unforgettable winter trip in Korea

1. Bukhansan National Park

Located to the northern part of Seoul, the park is a massive forest and easily reached via public transport from Seoul. It has a couple of hiking courses, such as Baegundae Peak, Jaunbong  Peak, Bogukmun course. With 3 peaks of different height, there is no need to worry since you can choose whatever fits your physical condition. The highest one - Baegundae Peak, which rises up to 836 meters, allows adventurous hikes through the frosted woods of Bukhansan Park to warm up your body. The hikes take around 7 hours, but no one can say it is not worth the effort! The forest is beautiful, red leaves and dark tree skins popping up among spotless layer of white snow. Once you reach the sufficient height, you will be holding your breath when the magnificent landscape of the whole city spreading in front your eyes. Seoul seems to be expanding all the way to the skyline, looming behind ranges of snowy mountains. If you are not a working out person, you can choose Bogukmun Course to simply explore the woods or visit other sights along the main path. There are streams, waterfalls and oak trees, which are all frosted, just like in the Disney movie “Frozen”. Don’t forget to wear proper footwear, or safety equipment for mountain trekking, and food! Besides, you can call on several temples, admiring their unique architecture and enjoying the peaceful, solemn atmosphere.

How to get there:

- By bus: take bus no. 704 from Gupabal  Station (line 3, exit 1), arriving at Bukhansanseong Fortress.

- By subway: take subway from Dobongsan station, get off at exit 1.

2. Busan’s Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is said to be the most spectacular Buddhist temple, due to its stunning sea view and grand structure. Built into the cliffs, by the sea far away at the east of Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa welcomes you with the exclusive smell of seawater and the bustling sound of the waves. As you approach the temple, you can also smell incense and hear the monk reciting Buddhist sutras. Altogether they bring out the feelings of harmony and peace. The temple is genuinely an impressive structure, from hundreds of Buddha figurines in all shapes and sizes to the gorgeous sanctuaries, each of which is believed to bring prayers distinctive luck. Although in winter they are all covered in layers of snow, the sacred look of a Buddhist creation remains unchanged. It is no doubt a ground of serenity and relief. And don’t worry if climbing stairs makes you hungry, there is a collection of food stalls along the way, and souvenir shops, too! The only minus of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is that the usual crowd might not let you enjoy your relaxing experience to the fullest.

How to get there:

- By bus: take bus 181 at Haeundae Station (Busan Subway line 2, exit 7), get off at Yonggungsa Temple stop.

- By taxi: expected fare: 8,000 won (160,000 VND), duration: 20 minutes.

3. Busan’s Jagalchi Fish Market

If you have a desire for food, especially seafood, you will not want to miss out on Jagalchi Fish Market – the largest seafood market in Korea. Accordingly, you can tell how diverse these items displayed here are.  There are rows after rows of stalls along the street, full of seafood products that you either know or have no idea about. They have literally anything: freshly-caught fish, squids, whale meat, pickled sea food etc. and that is just the outdoor market. Entering the indoor area, you will be amazed as if stepping into an aquarium. What’s more, they have a separate second floor as eating venue. You can have them proceed the food you buy downstairs or directly order from the menu. Since Busan is a seaside city, the quality and relish of the food are out of question. During winter, the fish’s high fat content in cold water makes them even tastier. But not all the dishes are simply enjoyable. The Korean are well-known for eating bizzard seafood, such as nakji (raw squids’ tentacles). Think twice before you take a bite!

How to get there:

- By train: take a train to Jagalchi Station (Busan Subway Line 1, exit 10), after getting off, turn right onto Jagalchi 3 Street and walk to Jagalchi Market.