NEW! Japan Discovery

Take in the sights of bustling Busan with a panoramic city drive. Travel comfortably by motor coach, departing the dock and crossing the Gwangandaegyo suspension bridge that spans more than 4½ miles. As you approach the city, enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, Gwangalli Beach and the skyscrapers that punctuate the skyline against a backdrop of mountains. Stop for photos at the Street of Cinema, as well as Busan Cinema Center—the official venue of one of the most popular film festivals in Asia. This impressive venue is renowned for its notable architectural design, including the Big Roof, which is one of the largest cantilever roofs in the world. From here, continue to Yongdusan Park to enjoy the view of the Old Town, the flower clock and iconic Busan Tower. Then, explore at your leisure before returning to the port and your awaiting ship.

Participate in a temple tea ceremony for a memorable experience of Buddhist culture. You will enjoy a scenic drive to the foothills of Cheolmasan to one of three Buddhist temples, such as the impressive Hongbeopsa Temple—famous for its bronze Buddha statue that stands nearly 70 feet tall. Here, you will have a special opportunity to experience a tea ceremony with the expert guidance of a temple monk or tea master. Brewing and drinking tea are considered as befitting the practice of the Eight Virtues of Buddhism, and tea was originally one of the six offerings (along with incense, flowers, lanterns, fruit and rice) to Buddha. Green tea will be served as part of the ceremony, which is a form of meditation that aims to purify participants’ souls and connect them with nature. Afterward, enjoy an opportunity for a short meditation, followed by a brief question and answer session with a temple monk.

Discover the cultural and architectural highlights of the second largest city in South Korea. Depart from the dock and enjoy a scenic drive across the more than 4½-mile-long Gwangandaegyo suspension bridge to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Unlike most temples in Korea, which are located in the mountains, this Buddhist temple is situated near the sea. Originally built in 1376, the temple was rebuilt in the 1970s; it is one of three sacred places related to the Goddess Buddha. Navigate the 108 steps down to the temple, or admire it from afar. Continue on to see Nurimaru APEC House, and Busan Cinema Center—the Busan International Film Festival’s official venue. Then, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before browsing the stalls at Gukje Market—the largest traditional market in Busan. You will also have the chance to visit Jagalchi Market to glimpse the lifestyle of the Busan locals in the largest seafood market in Korea.

Uncover the treasures of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju—capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla. With the exception of China, Korea’s cultural roots precede all of Asia’s ancient civilizations, dynasties and empires. As early as 676 AD, when cities such as Paris and Rome were simple wooden villages huddled along riverbanks, Korea’s Silla Dynasty, centered in Gyeongju, boasted a remarkably advanced civilization. The ensuing three centuries of Silla dominance introduced Buddhism, printing, porcelain and the current written language into Korean society. Learn more about its intriguing cultural history with a visit to the Gyeongju National Museum. After, head to Tumuli Park to view the Royal Silla Tombs; take a guided tour of the Heavenly Horse Tomb, where you will learn about the construction of these large burial mounds. Enjoy lunch before continuing to the Bulguksa Temple—a testament to the Silla Dynasty’s architectural prowess, and the depth of its Buddhist faith.

Explore one of Busan’s most cherished Buddhist temples and two of the city’s fascinating markets. Take a scenic drive to the eastern slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain, home to the famous Beomeosa Temple. Founded in 678 AD, the “Temple of the Nirvana Fish” is one of South Korea’s three major holy sites. Take time to stroll through this peaceful setting; the surrounding wisteria woods and majestic valleys are considered a national monument. Admire the delicate architecture of Daeungjeon Hall and the 11 beautiful hermitages that grace the grounds. Afterward, return to the city for a visit to the vibrant Gukje Market. Browse its many stalls, which sell everything from traditional to modern wares. Head to Jagalchi Market—the largest seafood market in South Korea—and soak up the fresh sea air while sampling local favorites, such as pajeon (green onion pancake with seafood) and makgeolli (Korean rice wine), before returning to your ship.

Learn about those who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War on a visit to the United Nations Memorial Cemetery. More than 1.2 million civilians and military personnel died during the conflict, which began on June 25, 1950 and raged across the peninsula until July 27, 1953. Among those killed or missing were an estimated 211,330 UN service members; grouped into 22 sites designated by nationality, these serene grounds are the final resting place for 2,300 of them. Walk along the solemn rows and monuments, then stop to reflect at the Wall of Remembrance; completed in 2006, this series of 140 marble panels is inscribed with the names of 40,896 UN casualties from the bloody conflict. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore popular Songdo Beach. Take a walk along the scenic Beach Skywalk, a short raised trail that curves like a dragon, for sweeping views of the shore and bay.

Discover Busan’s cultural and economic revival during visits to Gamcheon Culture Village and the APEC House. Drive to Gamcheon, nicknamed the “Machu Picchu of Busan” because of the way its houses are built up the slope of the mountainside. Once a ramshackle neighborhood, it received an artistic makeover in 2009 that sparked an urban renewal. Today, it is known for its brightly colored buildings, Lego block–shaped homes, cafés and art galleries. Stroll with your guide through its steep streets and narrow alleyways, admiring the vibrant murals and sculptures that decorate your path. Afterward, drive along the coast, crossing the Gwangan Bridge and passing the skyscrapers of Haeundae New Town en route to the APEC House. This modern building, with its iconic dome, is nestled on the tip of Dongbaek Island, surrounded by scenic woods and rocky shores. Tour the building, with its exhibits showcasing the 2005 APEC Summit, before returning to your ship.

Take a guided walk along the scenic coastline of Busan during a visit to Igidae Park. Begin your trek at the Oryukdo Skywalk, a walking path built above a 114-foot coastal cliff. As you stroll, look down through its transparent floor to see the rolling waves crashing into the shore beneath you, and take in picturesque views of the nearby Oryukdo Islands. Travel along your mostly descending path, passing interesting natural features such as Nong-bawi (furniture rock) and Chima-bawi (skirt rock), the sandy shores of beautiful Haeundae Beach and an expanse of rock marked by the footprint of a dinosaur at Marine Port Hall. At the scenic lookout at Eoulmadang, stop to admire beautiful views of the soaring Gwangan Bridge and the iconic dome of the APEC House. Walk over a short suspension bridge to complete your journey, then return to your ship.