When we think of South Korea, places like Seoul or Jeju Island often come to mind. But just west of Busan lies Gimhae, a city that quietly carries the legacy of ancient Korea while offering modern comforts and charm.

Once the capital of the Gaya Kingdom, Gimhae invites us to explore royal tombs, stunning nature trails, quirky museums, and traditional street markets—all in one relaxing trip.

How to Get to Gimhae

Getting to Gimhae is surprisingly simple, especially from Busan or Seoul:

- From Busan:Take the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL) from Sasang Station. It takes about 30 minutes to reach central Gimhae. Fare: around $1.50 USD.

- From Seoul:Take the KTX to Busan Station (approx. 2.5–3 hours), then switch to BGL. Total cost: around $45–50 USD.

- By Air:Gimhae International Airport is technically in Gimhae. Taxis from the airport to downtown take about 10–15 minutes, costing around $10 USD.

Must-Visit Spots in Gimhae

Here are the top places we should definitely explore in Gimhae:

1. Tomb of King Suro

- The legendary founder of the Gaya Kingdom rests here.

- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

- Admission: Free

- Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, or autumn for golden leaves.

- Tip: It’s a peaceful place perfect for photos and a quiet walk.

2. Gimhae National Museum

- Dive into the world of Gaya’s ancient culture through pottery, armor, and royal artifacts.

- Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)

- Admission: Free

- Tip: Visit early to avoid school groups and enjoy peaceful viewing.

3. Yeonji Park & Floating Island

- A serene urban lake with a unique floating stage and bridges.

- Great For: Evening strolls, photography, and picnic breaks.

- Admission: Free, open 24/7

- Tip: Visit at sunset for magical views.

4. Clayarch Gimhae Museum

- A contemporary ceramic art museum that’s both stylish and creative.

- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)

- Tickets: About $3 USD

- Tip: Don’t miss the outdoor installations—they’re Insta-worthy!

5. Gaya Theme Park

- A fun way to learn about Gaya history with reenactments, sculptures, and hands-on activities.

- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

- Admission: Adults $7 USD, Children $5 USD

- Tip: Check their calendar for traditional dance performances.

What to Eat in Gimhae

Gimhae has its own tasty traditions. Let’s try:

- Grilled Freshwater Eel : A specialty by the Nakdong River.

- Kongnamul Gukbap (Bean Sprout Rice Soup): Light, local, and under $6 USD.

- Gimhae Market Snacks: Tteokbokki, hotteok, and fresh rice cakes at Gimhae Jungang Market.

Best Time to Visit

- Spring (March–April): Cherry blossoms bloom in Yeonji Park and King Suro's Tomb Park.

- Autumn (October–November): Crisp weather and colorful foliage make walks perfect.

- Summer: Great for water parks, but expect higher humidity.

- Winter: Quieter season; some parks are less lively, but still worth a calm visit.

Where to Stay

We don’t have to spend much to stay comfortably:

- Business Hotels near Gimhae City Hall: Around $40–60 USD/night

- Guesthouses and homestays: From $25 USD/night

- Tip: Book early during spring festival season!

Useful Travel Tips

1. Transport Tip: Use a T-money card for seamless travel on BGL and Busan subways.

2. Language: English signs are common in major attractions, but knowing a few Korean words helps.

3. Cash vs. Card: Most shops accept cards, but street food vendors prefer cash.

4. Souvenirs: Local ceramics from Clayarch and traditional snacks make great gifts.

5. Safety: Very safe for solo travelers or families—just like most of South Korea.

Let’s Explore Gimhae Together!

Gimhae may not be on every travel guide’s front page, but that’s exactly why we should go. It’s peaceful, rich in history, and full of local color that many tourist-packed cities can’t offer. Whether we’re history buffs, art lovers, or just in search of calm beauty, Gimhae checks all the boxes.

Ready to leave the crowds behind and walk through ancient Korea in Gimhae? Let’s pack our bags and discover this sky-bound kingdom—one step at a time.