6 Best Sights in Side Trips from Busan, South Korea

One of the most prominent museums in the country, Gyeongju National Museum is dedicated to the art, history, and treasures of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC–AD 935), with weapons, armor, clothing, pottery, statues, royal crowns, and more on display.  An hour or so browsing its exhibits will give you a deeper appreciation of the civilization that once called Gyeongju its capital. If you really want to understand the Silla period, this should be your first stop in town.

This former landfill is home to more than 400 varieties of trees, along with flowers, giant cacti, and medicinal herbs spread over 21 gardens. In early November the arboretum hosts the Chrysanthemum Festival, which draws visitors from all around the country.

This 1.1-km-long (.68 miles) sandy beach is famous for its crystalline waters. The nearby village is also a great spot to sit down for a meal of fresh hoe (raw fish). Amenities: food and drink; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunrise; sunset; swimming; walking; windsurfing.

Made up entirely of smooth, small dark pebbles, this 1.2-km (.75 miles) stretch of beach is the perfect place to grab a coffee and listen to the waves wash over the clattering stones. While you're there, make sure to take advantage of the beach's therapeutic effects: remove your shoes and socks and stroll barefoot over the rocks while they massage the pressure points on the bottom of your feet. Amenities: food and drink; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunrise; swimming; walking.

This ornate covered bridge dates back to the Silla period but was destroyed long ago during the Joseon dynasty and only recently rebuilt. Like other Gyeongju sights, it's lit up beautifully at night casting reflections on the river, making it a great place to stroll.

Dedicated to the legendary admiral who helped save the nation from a Japanese invasion, this lovely seaside park delivers natural splendor along with a big dose of history. Yi Sun Sin is probably Korea's greatest hero, and the 17.3 meter–high (56.74 feet) statue of the great man gazes out across the water to his base at Hansando Island, where, four centuries years ago, he put his tactical genius to work.