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Staying in Nampo-dong, the mecca of Busan trip

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Every day of the week, Nampo-dong is a place crowded with people where you can experience the energy of Busan early in the morning. A major urban district, the neighborhood has a park, a department store, a traditional market, and major tourist attractions, making it a hot place for locals, tourists, and foreigners alike.

Locals collectively refer to Gwangbok-dong, Nampo-dong, and Bupyeong-dong as “Nampo-dong.” As the area is large, you may have to spend an entire day or even longer to enjoy every part of Nampo-dong. Plan ahead to minimize the travel time. Let us learn about how to best enjoy Nampo-dong.

Toward Yongdusan Park

Come out Exit 7 of Nampo Station on Busan Metro Line No. 1. Once you do, you will encounter Gwangbok-ro Fashion Street with the largest number of shops in Busan. They usually have a wide array of products, convenient for people who wish to buy souvenirs or gifts. Take the escalator on the fashion street to go to Yongdusan Park. At the park, where trees provide a refreshing atmosphere, there are more fun activities to enjoy. The most popular places are the souvenir shops and duty-free shops. In addition, the Busan Museum of Movies, Trick Eye Museum, and Busan Modern History Museum are located within walking distance.

From Yongdusan Park to Gukje Market

Now it is time to walk a lot. Exit the park and move toward Gukje Market to come to Nampo-dong Food Alley, where each building is full of clothing stores and restaurants, and the center of the narrow alley is lined up with various accessories and food carts selling street food. Walk along the maze-like alley to pass through Guje Alley and the street that connects to Gukje Market, following Bupyeong Kkangtong Market. The two markets are Busan’s leading traditional markets, where you will find anything that you want and need. Prepare your budget and spend plenty of time discovering hidden treasures in the marketplace.

From Gukje Market Sageori to BIFF Plaza

When you begin to feel hungry, move to the BIFF Plaza where food is plentiful, and choose between fastfood, street food, and dessert. Although popular shops have long lines, there is much to choose from, including the famous ssiat hotteok (sugar-filled, seeded griddlecake) of Nampo-dong, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and dumplings, delicious spicy glass noodles, and various skewered food. Enjoy dishes while chatting with friends, and rate the food!

From Jahalchi Market across the street to the department store

Cross the main road to get to the famous Jagalchi Market. Have fun watching fresh and dried seafood. At each alley lies famous restaurants, including grilled fish restaurants and sea eel specialists, which attract several customers. Reach Yeongdodaegyo Bridge at the end of the alley to take a photo and head over to the large department store, where each store sells unique products that are fun to window-shop. After a long day of walking and following a schedule, go to great restaurants and cozy resting spots.

Nampo-dong is a place where you can spend all day without getting bored. Head to Nampo-dong where you can enjoy sightseeing, shopping, and great dishes all in one place!