Port
Busan (Pusan), South Korea
Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$180
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
4½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Enjoy a panoramic drive to the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, situated on the coast in northeastern Busan. This superb temple was first built in 1376, during the Goryeo Dynasty. Legend has it that the Buddhist teacher known as Naong made the unusual decision to establish a temple beside the sea instead of the mountains following a dream when a sea god appeared to him and told him if he built a temple and prayed there, his people would live happily and without struggle.
The final stop will be Ahopsan Forest which has been owned and gardened by the same family for over 400 years. They have kept its natural condition unopened to the public throughout the Japanese occupation, liberation, war, and industrialization. The forest was designated as a green belt and water source conservation area, preserving the healthy natural environment and ecosystem. The family opened the forest to the public in 2016 to highlight the importance of forest and ecosystem conservation.
A total of 116 trees are designated as protected tress, showing how long and precious the history of the forest is. As you follow the path, red pine trees, hinoki cypress trees, oak trees, but perhaps most impressive and important is bamboo.
Following your rejuvenating stroll through the forest, return to the pier.
Please note: The Ahopsan Forest is closed on Mondays and will be substituted with a visit to the APEC Nurimaru House. Participants must negotiate stairs including 108 to reach the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and/or uneven surfaces and is therefore not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.