Why You Should Visit Miryang: History And Nature Just Outside Busan

Have you ever heard of the famous Korean folk song “Miryang Arirang” or the Yeongnamnu Pavilion? If not, here’s your chance to visit a city known for its history dating back to the Joseon era, its magnificent sights, and its ancient treasures.

Located less than an hour from Busan, Miryang is the perfect day trip for travelers looking to take a walk among cultural heritages and scenic beauty.

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Miryang in a few words

Although it’s often a popular destination for Korean tourists, I got the impression that Miryang is somewhat overlooked by foreigners, as the city sadly isn’t really included in the main itineraries or among the favorite attractions.

Not only does the city boast a stunning mountain, temples, and historic sites, but it also hosts a multitude of festivals, including the famous Miryang Arirang Festival.

So if you’re looking to get some fresh air after spending some time in a major town, look no further than Miryang, where history and nature await you.

Miryang as a day trip: the highlights

1. Yeongnamnu Pavilion

Probably the most famous place in Miryang, and for good reason. Yeongnamnu Pavilion is a masterpiece and one of the three great pavilions in Korea.

This striking architectural landmark, perched on a cliff and overlooking the Miryang river and the city, is breathtakingly beautiful.

Here you’ll find all of Korean’s colorful craftmanship, embellished by a refreshing and stunning panorama, making it the ideal starting point for your visit to Miryang.

* Pro tip: take your time admiring the views from this historic place, but don’t forget to take off your shoes before entering the pavilion.

2. Aranggak Pavilion

Another smaller pavilion, adjacent to Yeongnamnu Pavilion, and which was built to calm the spirit of the well-known Arang, the daughter of a Miryang magistratre during the Joseon Dynasty, who met a sad and tragic end.

Legend has it that young Arang was a beautiful girl loved by all. She had been raised by her doting nanny since her mother’s death, but one day, a junior officer who was in love with her and was determined to win her over bribed the nanny to arrange a secret meeting with Arang.

Arang, who had no idea about any of this and trusted her nanny agreed to visit Yeongnamnu Pavilion at night to admire the beautiful night scenery. That’s when the officer confessed his love to her but got rejected by Arang. Furious, he tried to rape her; she fought back, but unfortunately ended up losing her life at the hands of the officer in a gruesome way. He then hid her body and destroyed the evidence of his crime.

Later, rumors started to spread, tarnishing the reputation of the young girl, saying she eloped with a man. So her father resigned and moved away, but the magistrate who replaced him soon died mysteriously, as did all those who succeeded him, until Lee Sang-sa took office.

That night he met the ghost of Arang, who explained to him that the other magistrates had died of fear, unable to help her right the injustice of her death. Lee Sang-sa listened to her story and took the bloody piece of cloth that Arang gave him, telling him that it would turn into a small white butterfly and land on the murderer’s head. The next morning, when the officials gathered, Lee Sang-sa was able to convict and execute both the murderer and her nanny. Arang’s body was then found and she was finally able to rest in peace and never reappeared again.

You can see paintings depicting part of the legend inside the pavilion, as well as a peaceful bamboo forest located behind it.

3. Mubongsa Temple

Mubongsa, which means “a sacred place where phoenix used to dance” is a small temple located right next to the other two places above.

Known for its stone-seated Buddha statue enshrined there, the temple also offers a picturesque vantage point of the quiet city of Miryang.

4. Miryang Eupseong (Fortress)

The flags fluttering along the ramparts, with the mountains as a backdrop almost made me feel like I had stepped back in time, where every ancient stones held a breath of the past, one that was definitely very different from this seemingly peaceful era.

Surrounded by a serene landscape, the fortress is an ideal place to stroll and unwind.

5. Abuksan

Not an avid hiker but love stunning views? Then follow the trail leading from the fortress to the mountain to enjoy lovely views of the mountains and valleys surrounding Miryang.

There’s also a small park filled with fragrant flowers, as well as cute pavilions where you can take a break, and fitness equipment (as it is often the case in South Korea).

6. Miryang Arirang Market

Because you can’t really visit a city in South Korea and skip its traditional markets. Of course, you’ll find all all the most popular, finger licking good street food specialties there.

So wander among the various stalls and don’t forget to treat yourself to one of Miryang’s specialties: dwaeji gukbap (pork and rice soup).

Other things to see in Miryang

If you have more than a day to spare, here are a few places worth visiting!

• Wolyeonjeong Pavilion: cross the magical tunnel and make your way to this pavilion perched on a cliff above the river.
• Yongdusan Eco Park: for healing walks in nature and unparalleled views.
• Wiyangji: a reservoir of a tranquil beauty, especially popular in the autumn for its fall foliage and in the spring for it white fringetrees.

How to get to Miryang

Only 45 minutes by train, Miryang is an easy day trip from Busan. There are a few trains a day, but remember to check the schedule so you don’t get stranded in Miryang.

And if you’re in Daegu, it’s the same, as it will take you 45 minutes by train as well.

FAQ

Is one day enough to visit Miryang?

Honestly, no. I think two days would be more practical and would let you explore Miryang at a more leisurely pace.

Still, one day is more than enough to make you want to visit again!

Can I visit Miryang without a car?

You can, but you’ll need some patience because some of the attractions I mentioned (especially Wiyangji) are a bit far out the way.

But it’s definitely doable if you plan to spend a night there and don’t try to cram everything into a single day.

Is it easy to find an accommodation in Miryang?

Not really! There aren’t many options, or they’re outside town. So if you don’t have a car, you probably won’t be able to stay overnight, hence the day trip.

↪ Miryang was one of those destinations I chose on a whim, and I didn’t regret it: escaping the tumult of a large city to find myself in a small haven of peace brimming with history and natural beauty was exactly what I needed at that particular moment.

So if you’re looking for an easy and beautiful day trip from Busan, opt for the beautiful, picturesque town of Miryang.

Looking for more day trip ideas from Busan?

Staying in Busan for a few days and want to go on one or two day trips? Check out my 7 Beautiful Day Trips From Busan, South Korea!