I gave up on Jeju Island because here...
by CuriousFootsteps
Jun 23, 2025
#holidayitinerary
Perched in the heart of Busan, **Yongdusan Park** (Dragon Head Mountain Park) is a lush urban oasis blending history, culture, and breathtaking cityscapes. Home to the iconic **Busan Diamond Tower** (formerly Busan Tower), this park offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit!
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## **Why Visit Yongdusan Park?**
✅ **Busan Diamond Tower**: Soaring **120m tall**, the tower’s observatory (modeled after Gyeongju’s Dabotap Pagoda) offers 360° views of Busan Port, Gwangan Bridge, and even Haeundae’s skyscrapers on clear days .
✅ **Rich History**: Once a Joseon-era Japanese enclave and Korean War refugee site, the park now features monuments like the **Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin** and the **April Revolution Memorial** .
✅ **Cultural Vibrancy**: Free traditional performances every **Saturday at 3 PM** (March–November) and seasonal festivals .
✅ **Easy Access**: Centrally located in **Nampo-dong**, with escalators from Gwangbok-ro for a hassle-free ascent .
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## **Must-See Highlights**
### **1. Busan Diamond Tower**
- **Observatory (T5)**: Daytime sea vistas and nighttime city-light panoramas .
- **Flying Submarine (T4)**: AR experiences and interactive exhibits .
- **Black Wonderland (T2)**: A quirky optical-illusion space .
- **Ticket**: ₩12,000 (adults), ₩9,000 (seniors/children) .
### **2. Historical Monuments**
- **Admiral Yi Sun-sin Statue**: Honors Korea’s naval hero .
- **Palgakjeong Pavilion**: An octagonal rest spot with mountain views .
- **Flower Clock & Citizen’s Bell**: Donated by locals for New Year celebrations .
### **3. Hidden Gems**
- **Museum of World Folk Instruments**: Play rare instruments made from fruits and bones .
- **World Model Boats Exhibition**: Features turtle ships and luxury cruisers .
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## **Visitor Essentials**
📍 **Location**: 37-55 Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu, Busan .
⏰ **Hours**: Park open **24/7**; Tower: 10:00–22:00 (last entry 21:30) .
🎫 **Fees**: Park entry **free**; Tower tickets separate .
🚌 **Transport**:
- **Subway**: Nampo Station (Line 1, Exit 1) → 3-min walk to escalator .
- **Bus**: Routes 126, 134, or 186 to "Baeksan Memorial Hall" stop .
🅿️ **Parking**: ₩1,000/hour at the park lot .
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## **Pro Tips**
- **Best Time**: Visit at **sunset** for golden-hour views and fewer crowds .
- **Nearby Eats**: Try **Gukje Market’s street food** (e.g., *ssiat hotteok* pancakes) or **Halmae Gaya Milmyeon** for icy noodles .
- **Combine With**: BIFF Square, Jagalchi Market, and Gwangbok-ro Fashion Street for a full-day Nampo-dong tour .
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### **Legends & Lore**
The park’s name comes from its dragon-head-shaped peak, believed to protect Busan from invaders . Its pine-covered slopes once inspired the name *Songhyeonsan* ("Pine Hill Mountain")
Post by SonnySideUp | Aug 10, 2025























