Themed Tour | Recommended Tour

Recommending a Hidden Observation Deck in Busan! The Donggu Library’s Chaengmaru Observatory

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Written and Photographed by: Han Go-un, 6th Batch of GoBoogi Creators

Looking for a place in Busan where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and a refreshing breeze this fall? There’s a unique observation deck in Dong-gu, Busan, that’s perfect for enjoying the changing season. It’s a wonderful place to read a book, take in the scenery, and enjoy the arrival of autumn. Shall we go check it out together?

If you drive along Busan’s hillside roads and pass Webtoon Ibagu-gil, a street lined with cartoon murals, you’ll find Donggu Library nearby.

Free parking is available in the dedicated parking lot in front of Donggu Library. Because the library is located on high ground and can be difficult to reach on foot, many visitors come by car. As a result, the parking lot can get somewhat crowded on weekends. Even so, there was plenty of parking space during my visit, as cars can park all the way up to the entrance of the parking lot.

A walking trail called “Chaekmaru-gil” connects the lower road to Donggu Library. On a spring or autumn day when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, it’s lovely to take a leisurely walk along the trail while enjoying the murals and tile artwork. And you don’t even have to make it all the way to the Chaengmaru Observatory to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view. You can already see an impressive view from right beside the parking lot.

There are two ways to reach the Chaengmaru Observatory. The first is to use the outdoor elevator located to the right of Donggu Library when facing the building. This elevator takes you directly to the observation deck. It operates only between the first and fourth floors and does not pass through the library interior. The elevator takes you directly to the observation deck, making it convenient for visitors with strollers or wheelchairs.

The second option is to enter Donggu Library, take the elevator to the third floor, and then use the stairs to reach the rooftop observation deck. If you need to use the restroom or water purifier, be sure to use the facilities inside the library.

When you arrive at the Chaengmaru Observatory, you’ll be greeted by an expansive view of the open sky. The observation deck opened recently, so it has a clean, modern feel. The entire rooftop has been transformed into an observation deck, providing plenty of open space to explore.

You’ll also find a variety of sculptures that perfectly complement the name Donggu Library Chaengmaru Observatory. There is a photo zone featuring a book-shaped sculpture, while cute characters reading books are placed throughout the surrounding wooden deck.

One particularly thoughtful feature is the smartphone holder on top of the yellow pencil-shaped sculpture. Place your phone in the holder, and it lines up perfectly with the book sculpture in the photo zone! So even if you’re visiting alone or don’t have a tripod, you can simply set your phone’s timer and take a lovely photo to remember your visit.

On one side of the observation deck, you’ll find a large pencil sculpture surrounded by circular steps. Climb the steps, and you’ll discover a sculpture shaped like an old-fashioned television, along with a bench shaped like a book.

Stand behind the television sculpture, and you can take a fun photo that makes it look as though you’re actually inside the TV! With cute sculptures and photo zones scattered throughout the observation deck, there’s plenty to discover as you explore.

Spectacular views unfold in both directions from the observation deck. In front of you, you can see the Busan Harbor Bridge and Busan South Port. Behind you lies a more authentic, unfiltered side of Busan, with views of neighborhoods such as Beomil-dong and Hocheon Village, known for their charming and picturesque residential scenery. The area is also well known as a filming location for TV dramas. While the scenery is beautiful during the day, it is particularly famous for its stunning nighttime views. I highly recommend taking an evening drive to the Donggu Library Chaengmaru Observatory and enjoying the beauty of Busan after dark!

Because this spot has not yet attracted large crowds, it’s a great place to visit at a leisurely pace. Come by yourself to read a book, admire the scenery, and quietly take in the sights of Busan. Best of all, admission is free, so you can stop by without hesitation!

Q&A

Q. Is the Chaengmaru Observatory at Donggu Library open at all times?
A. The Chaengmaru Observatory, located on the rooftop of Donggu Library, is not open 24 hours a day, so be sure to check the operating hours before your visit. We also recommend reviewing the visitor guidelines in advance. Drones, pets, food, and smoking are not permitted.

Overview

Address
54 Seongbuk-ro 36beon-gil, Dong-gu, Busan
Hours
9 AM–10 PM / Closed Mondays and public holidays (except Sundays)
(The library is closed when a Sunday coincides with another public holiday.)
Service Fees
Free