Taejongdae Park: Relax To The Sound Of The Waves In Busan

Looking to spend a relaxing afternoon while watching the waves roll and enjoying Busan’s breathtaking coastal scenery? Visit Taejongdae Park!

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Taejongdae Park in a few words

Named after King Taejong Muyeol, one of the kings of Silla (one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea) who apparently liked to shoot arrows in the area, Taejongdae Park is the ideal place for a walk between forest and ocean.

Also named a Geopark by UNESCO thanks to its preservation of geological heritage, culture, history and awareness of sustainable development, the park is also the perfect place to escape the city due to its accessibility and scenic views.

Two ways to explore the park

You have two options to explore Taejongdae: by walking around the park or by taking the Danube Train (one-way: 2,000 KRW; round trip: 4,000 KRW).

If you’re not in a hurry and want to spend some time around the different spots, I definitely recommend just walking around and enjoying the views.

Highlights of Taejongdae Park

1. Coastal scenery & pebble beaches

Towering cliffs facing the sea, waves crashing on the shores of pebble beaches and a magnificent coastal scenery is what a relaxing afternoon looks like to me, don’t you agree?

In any case, it’s such panoramic views and natural beauty that you can expect when you visit Taejongdae.

You’ll also catch a glimpse of the mysterious Saengdo island, better known as “Tea Kettle Island”, in the distance.

2. Light Beyond Limitation

Created by Korean artist Ji Sul Won Kyung-Lee and called “Light Beyond Limitation”, this is probably the most famous landmark in Taejongdae.

About its meaning, the artist described it as follows: “The blue circle connotes the sky and the sea while the red one symbolizes the sun, camellia flower, universe, five oceans, and six continents. The bar in the middle symbolizes the light from the lighthouse, showing everlasting movement toward the universe by splitting the sky and sea. The bar also vividly expresses an ascending marine nation.”

3. Yeongdo Lighthouse (영도등대)

For better views of the endless blue sea and the boats gliding along its surface, you need to go to the Yeongdo Lighthouse, which is over 100 years old.

But this is no ordinary lighthouse, as it also houses a maritime library, gallery, cafe and an observation deck.

4. Sinseon Rock & Mangbuseok (신선바위 & 망부석)

Here’s a place full of wonders and legends: Sinseon Rock, which name apparently comes from the fact that fairies once played here, and Mangbuseok, or the lonely stone you can see standing on the plateau.

The stone is said to represent a woman who waited desperately for her husband, kidnapped by Japanese pirates, until she finally turned into stone.

The location of the stone is also a great vantage point (provided the weather is good) on Tsushima Island.

5. Taejongsa Temple (태종사) & Hydrangeas

Because temples are, of course, always must-sees, and their intricate details and colors are always a feast for the eyes, a visit to Taejongsa is obvious. But what fascinated me even more was actually the sight of the thousands of hydrangeas that surround the area.

There’s even an event dedicated to these vibrant, pretty flowers, held every year in early July: Hydrangea Flower Cultural Festival!

If your afternoon isn’t packed and you’d still like to explore the area, or if you’re planning to spend a whole day around Taejongdae, here are my top recommendations!

Nearby places worth a visit

1. Huinnyeoul Culture Village (흰여울문화마을)

For a visit to a colorful village full of charm and history, and a great alternative to the more popular Gamcheon, Huinnyeoul Culture Village is not to be missed!

2. Jeoryeong Coastal Trail (절영해안산책로)

If you love walking and beautiful, peaceful costal views, then Jeoryeong Coastal Trail is for you. If you choose to start at the beginning, the walk will take you through Huinnyeoul Culture Village, Taejongdae, Yeongdo Haenyeo village to the beach.

For my favorite hikes and coastal walks in Busan, check out my other post here!

3. Yeongdo Haneul Observation Deck (영도 하늘전망대))

Transparent floor, panoramic ocean view, hot date spot and ideal for sunset lovers, Yeongdo Haneul Observation deck is a great place to relax and enjoy the moment.

It’s also located on the coastal trail mentioned above!

4. Arte Museum Busan

Opening hours: 10:00-20:00 every day
Ticket: from 15,000-22,000 KRW ($10-15)

If you’re into immersive exhibitions that will make you discover art from another angle, Arte Museum won’t disappoint you.

If you still want to visit the museum but don’t have enough time in Busan, there are other locations around South Korea: Jeju, Yeosu and Gangneung!

5. Bongnaesan (봉래산)

You like walking but you aren’t really an avid hiker? Bongnaesan offers the best compromise with its breathtaking panorama of Busan at an easy level!

Tips for visiting Taejongdae

• As with all landmarks, temples and other attractions in South Korea, prefer weekdays to weekends.

• Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water, as you’ll often be walking in the sun.

How to get to Taejongdae Park

Address: 24, Jeonmang-ro, Yeongdo-gu
Entrance to the park is free!

If you’re already in Nampo and don’t mind a bit of walking, you can reach Taejongdae Park via Jeoryeong Coastal Trail.

Or from Nampo station (line 1, orange), take exit 6, walk 50m, take bus 8, 30, 186 or 88 and get off at Taejongdae/Taejongdae Hot Springs (30mn).

FAQ

Are there any opening hours for Taejongdae Park?

There are two opening hours divided into two “seasons”: March to October 04:00-00:00 and November to February 05:00-00:00.

Are there toilets in the park?

Yes, they’re located near the Observatory rest area.

Can I rent a stroller or wheelchair?

Yes, strollers and wheelchairs can be rented free of charge at the entrance of the park (from 10:00 to 17:00).

Is Taejongdae Park dog-friendly?

You are welcome to bring your dog to explore the park with you, but your dog must be kept on a leash and you must bring poop bags.

Please note that dogs aren’t allowed inside the Danube Train.

Here are a few photos of Taejongdae Park:

Get ready to admire all the natural beauty of Taejongdae! From geological wonders, rocky plateaus, ocean-eroded cliffs, refreshing forest and breathtaking coastal views, the park is the ideal place for all nature lovers looking for a moment of peace and relaxation, less than an hour from the city.

Looking for more free things to do in Busan? I’ve got you covered!