Busan to Gwangju
South Korea
The route across the bottom of South Korea, from Busan, the buzzing port and Korea's film city, west through Masan, Jinju, and Suncheon to Gwangju, Korea's art capital, with multiple options for short detours south to the beaches and off-shore islands of Korea's southern coast. A beautifully surfaced road through the least internationally known corner of a remarkable country.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Busan
Korea's great port city: Gamcheon's painted hillside village, Jagalchi fish market, Haeundae Beach, and the BIFF cinema alley.
- Changwon
Industrial port city absorbing old Masan, famous for Jinhae's cherry blossom festival and a tidal coastline of islands and flats.
- Jinju
Jinjuseong fortress crowns a Nam River cliff, scene of the 1592 siege. The October Yudeung Lantern Festival fills the river with light.
- Hadong Tea Plantations
Korea's oldest green-tea fields blanket the Seomjin River valley slopes. The Ssanggyesa temple trail cuts through mist-covered rows.
- Suncheon Bay
Korea's largest coastal wetland and Ramsar site: 5.4 sq km of reed beds where endangered black-faced spoonbills winter in thousands.
- Gwangju
Korea's art capital and democratic heart. The May 18 Cemetery, Asia Culture Center, and Hwanggeumgil gallery alleys define the city.
Where to Eat
- Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival Street Food MarketStreet Food
Experience a variety of local street foods during the annual lantern festival along the Nam River in Jinju.
- Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve CaféCafé
Relax with a cup of coffee while enjoying panoramic views of the Suncheon Bay wetlands.
- Gwangju Mudeung Mountain Traditional RestaurantKorean
Savor traditional Korean dishes made with local ingredients at the foot of Mudeung Mountain.
Things to Do
- Jinju FortressHistoric Site
Explore the historic fortress overlooking the Nam River, known for its role in the Imjin War.
- Suncheon Bay National GardenPark
Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens showcasing diverse plant species from around the world.
- Gwangju Art StreetCultural Venue
Discover local art galleries, studios, and shops in this vibrant cultural hub.