Are you in Busan on a rainy day and don’t know what to do? Don’t worry, you can still enjoy this stunning seaside city when it’s wet outside. Here are 11 things to do in Busan when it rains.
Table of Contents
1. Shinsegae Centum City
Shinsegae Centum City is the world’s largest shopping complex so it should be on your list of things to do in Busan come rain or shine. You can shop at stores such as GAP, H&M, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi’s, Calvin Klein and more.
This department store not only satisfies shopaholics but also offers a plethora of leisure, entertainment and dining options (some of which are further down on this list).
If you’re feeling active, you can go ice skating, play golf or immerse yourself in virtual reality at the VR Experience area at Shinsegae Centum City. Or if you want a more relaxing day then you can watch a movie at CGV, visit the food market, eat in the food court or relax at a spa.
2. Centum City Spa Land
Centum City Spaland is one of the spas you can visit at Shinsegae Centum City, the other being Trinity Spa. It’s a great way to spend the day relaxing, clean your body and become familiar with Korean spa culture.
There are a variety of different rooms where you can unwind and cleanse your skin. Bear in mind that the spa may be busy during weekends (and perhaps on rainy days, too, if everyone gets the same idea.)
3. Shinsegae Gallery
Shinesegae Gallery is a free museum also in Shinsegae Centum City. The gallery has distinct exhibitions depending on the season. I went in August 2022 and there was a cool gaming exhibition where visitors could play several games and take cute pictures. It’s a perfect way to pass the time if you want to escape the rain.
4. Busan Museum of Art
If you’re interested in contemporary art then the Busan Museum of Art should definitely be on your list of things to do in Busan on a rainy day. Although there are exterior exhibitions, most of the artwork can be found inside. You’ll have several floors of art to explore all for free.
5. Lotte Department Store
Although no Lotte Department Store will be as big as Shinsegae Centum City, there’s still a lot to buy, do and eat there.
Several Lotte Department Stores are in Busan, so you can choose the one you’re closest to. I personally like the Gwangbok branch as it’s near things like Busan Diamond Tower and the next place on the list, Jagalchi Market.
6. Jagalchi market
Jagalchi Market is Korea’s biggest seafood market and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to fresh fish. However, it may be best to go there with a Korean native speaker if you’re interested in buying and trying the fresh fish, as some tourists have said haggling was difficult and the price they paid for their seafood was too expensive.’
If you just want to walk and look around, then a Korean native speaker or a command of the language isn’t necessary. It’s still interesting just observing how the market functions.
7. Bujeon market
Another market you should visit is Bujeon Market. Despite being in the heart of one of the busiest areas in Busan, this market generally doesn’t get too crowded because of its sheer size.
You can buy food items such as seafood, fruit and veg, and household items here for a decent price. However, there aren’t that many food stalls at the market so it may be better not to eat lunch here unless you see something that you really like.
8. Sea Life Busan Aquarium
Even though Sea Life Busan Aquarium contains similar types of sea animals and shows as other aquariums, it especially stands out for how it presents these aquatic animals. For example, there’s a fashion zone where fish tanks and sea animal homes are presented in fashion items like high heel shoes. You’ll certainly be able to spend a lot of time here on a rainy day.
9. Trickeye Museum
Trickeye museums are always fun, especially for aspiring actors. If you want a day full of laughs and silly pictures then this museum is for you. Download the museum’s app to fully enjoy the interactive 3D art.
It’s located within The Film Museum so you can buy combined tickets for both places if you wish.
10.Busan Museum
If you want to learn more about the history of Busan and Korea, visit Busan Museum! This place not only displays historical Korean collections, relics and exhibitions but also offers cultural activities. Foreign visitors to the museum can experience wearing traditional Korean clothing and participate in traditional tea ceremonies, for instance.
11. Seodong Maze Market
Seodong Maze Market is one of the lesser-known markets in Korea, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years due to being one of BTS Jimin’s favourite places to eat at. He specifically ate at Matna Busnik which sells delicious and cheap Korean food.
The most charming part of this market, which its name hints at, is its maze-like structure. Some paths are wide but there are some narrower ones which are exciting to explore. I hope you don’t get lost!
Conclusion
Busan still has a lot to offer when it rains, so don’t despair if the weather is less than ideal on your trip to Korea’s 2nd biggest city.
