Where to stay in Nampo
There are many hotels and guesthouses in Nampo. The most ideal location to stay is somewhere near Nampo station, as you’ll be able to move around by train or bus easily. We stayed at K-guesthouse, which is a good budget option. We booked through booking.com as they gave the best price, but you can also find K-guesthouse on hostelworld!
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Best things to do in Nampo
Besides our top 10, we definitely recommend taking some time to just wander through the streets of Nampo. There are many street food stalls, cute jewellery shops, cafes, and restaurants so you won’t be disappointed!
1. Gukje market
This all-in-one market is open everyday from 9am to 7pm. You’ll be amazed by the size of the market and everything that is being sold. Pots and pans, bed linen and pillows, knock off shoes and clothes, electronics and household products, dried fish and fruit, and freshly prepared street food dishes, it’s all there. The market is very lively and shouldn’t be missed when exploring Busan!
2. Bosu Book street
Just a few streets away from the Gukje market, you’ll find calmness in the Bosu Book street. This small street full of bookstores is popular amongst booklovers. Even though you won’t spend too much time here, as the street is only small, it is worth a visit for the unique and authentic atmosphere.
If you have the time, do check out the book cafe and have a coffee in the tiny two-storey basement library. Sit back in one of the comfy chairs built in by books and relax. Even though most books are written in Korean, we found a few English ones.
3. Yongdusan Park and Busan diamond tower
The well-known Busan diamond tower is a popular attraction in Busan. Even though this 120 meter high tower offers a nice view over Nampo, we don’t think paying the 12k won fee is worth it – there are many other free viewpoints in the area (continue reading!).
Nevertheless, the Yongdusan Park is a great place for a morning or afternoon stroll. And to enjoy the views of the Busan diamond tower from below.
4. Jagalchi fish market
Located right along the harbour you will find Korea’s largest fish market! The best time to visit is in the morning, when you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of locals selling their daily catch. The market is both indoors and outdoors and has some very bizarre creatures on display. Around the market you’ll find many restaurants where they prepare the fresh seafood in some very unique ways.
Tip: this can be a bit overwhelming, so maybe skip this if you cannot stand the smell or sight of seafood.
5. Lotte mart Sky Park
Since there are many Lotte marts in South-Korea, they often get overlooked. However, this one has a free sky park on the roof and shouldn’t be skipped!
Go to the 11th floor of the Lotte mart and then get in another elevator to the top (13th floor). The sky park is very well maintained and has a great view over Nampo. It is open from 10:30am to 8pm and beautiful both during the day and night.
Best things to do near Nampo
By looking just a little further than Nampo, you’ll find even more great things to do. These include some of our favourite Busan activities (especially number 7 and 10!). All of the below are within a 20 minute radius of Nampo central. So you should definitely make the time to see them.
6. Sky eye observatory
Only a 12 minute bus ride and a 5 minute walk from Nampo central, you’ll find this sky eye observatory. Even though the name implies some impressive observatory, it is just a tiny nice viewpoint.
However, going here is totally worth it when combining it with a little walk through the village nearby. After seeing the view, follow Mangyang-ro and wander through the artistic and colourful streets. Have a coffee at Moi Mignon Cafe or Cafe Hidden Planet, as they both have great views.
Note: don’t go too early as the cafes only open at 11am!
7. Korea’s Santorini
Huinnyeoul Culture Village (or Huinnyeoul Munhwa Maul) is often referred to as “Korea’s Santorini” because of its narrow alleys and coastal houses painted in blue and white. The village is very picturesque, with many colourful murals, little shops, and cute cafes. And only located 15 minutes away from Nampo station by bus!
Below the village you can stroll along the pretty coastal walk, which is also decorated in a similar Santorini style.
We think the best time to visit Huinnyeoul Culture Village is in the afternoon to see the sunset. Sadly most cafes and shops will be closing around that time, but the setting sun makes the scenery even more beautiful.
8. Cloud walk at Songdo beach
Songdo beach is a beautiful man-made beach south of Nampo. It is surrounded by some cafes and restaurants and is a summer hot spot for tourists and locals.
Apart from its beach, it is totally worth going here for the Cloud Walk. This bridge ventures out over the ocean offering great views over the coast. Only 10 minutes away from Nampo and completely free to visit, this is a perfect short morning activity in Busan.
You’ll also have a good view of the cable cars, which goes from Songdo beach to the Songdo Yonggung suspension bridge (our next favourite, read below).
9. Songdo Yonggung suspension bridge
The Songdo Yonggung suspension bridge is a 127 meter long connection between Amnam Park and the tiny uninhabited Dongseom Island.
Its visit can be combined with Songdo beach, as the two are only a 10 minute bus and 5 minute walk away. You can also get here from Songdo beach by taking the cable car.
The bridge is built over several rock formations and is quite impressive. There is an entrance fee of only 1000 won.
Connected to the bridge you find Amnam park. This is a great place for a short and relaxing walk after visiting the bridge. From here you can enjoy stunning ocean views.
10. Colourful Gamcheon cultural village
Last but definitely not least, the Gamcheon cultural village. Located only a 10 minute bus and 5 minute walk from Nampo station, this is a must see. The village is known for its narrow maze-like streets and brightly painted houses.
You can spend quite some time here wandering around, trying not to get lost. There are many unique shops, with handmade items and souvenirs, cafes with amazing views, and sweet snacks to try.
The best time to visit Gamcheon cultural village is early morning or late afternoon, as the lower sun will create a softer colour palette. In the morning, have a coffee at Avant Garde cafe for the best views. But when the sun lights up the other side of the village in the afternoon, a great place for a drink is B612 cafe.
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