Gamcheon Culture Village 2025

Gamcheon Culture Village is one of the most popular destinations in Busan, South Korea, and a must-visit for almost every traveler. Located on a hillside in Saha-gu district, it is often referred to as the "Santorini of Korea" or the "Candy Village" due to its brightly colored houses that cascade down the mountain like a picturesque painting.

Historically, Gamcheon was a poor community, primarily inhabited by refugees from the Korean War in the 1950s. In 2009, the local government and artists collaborated on the "Gamcheon Art Village" project, adorning the village with art installations, murals, sculptures, and charming photo spots. This transformation turned Gamcheon into a vibrant artistic tourist destination, generating income for the local community.

As you wander through the village, you'll find narrow alleys filled with colorful houses, cafes, souvenir shops, and street art that narrates the history of Gamcheon. Each alley has its unique charm, such as the fish staircase, pigeon wall, or the "Little Prince" viewpoint featuring a statue of the Little Prince and the fox—a popular photo spot often with long queues but worth the wait.

What makes Gamcheon truly impressive is its harmonious blend of old and new. The small, old houses remain intact but are enhanced with art and creativity from the younger generation, making every corner tell a story. Some houses have been converted into galleries, while others allow visitors to experience traditional Busan living. Exploring Gamcheon is not just about taking beautiful photos but also about learning local culture in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Getting to Gamcheon is easy from downtown Busan:
1. By subway: Take Line 1 to Toseong Station (토성역) and exit at Exit 6. Look for the sign leading to the village and take a small bus (routes 1-1, 2, or 2-2) to the "Gamcheon Culture Village (감천문화마을)" stop. The bus ride involves steep and winding roads but offers beautiful city views along the way.
2. By taxi: For groups or those seeking convenience, take a taxi from Busan Station or Nampo-dong. The ride takes about 15–20 minutes and costs around 6,000–8,000 won.
3. For walkers: Start from Taejongdae or Nampo-dong and take a local bus to Gamcheon.

Upon arrival, visit the tourist information center near the entrance to get a "Stamp Map," which guides you to over 10 key spots in the village. Collect stamps at each location to exchange for a small souvenir—a fun activity that ensures you explore every corner.

A small tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large tourist groups, and wear comfortable shoes as the village has many slopes and stairs. Also, be mindful not to make loud noises or disturb residents, as this is a real community where people live.

Overall, Gamcheon Culture Village perfectly reflects the charm of Busan, combining art, warmth, and a simple yet colorful way of life. For first-time visitors to Busan, this "must-visit spot" will make you fall in love with the city even more ❤️

Post by Psyche- | Nov 4, 2025