Things To Do
in Kimhae
Kimhae, South Korea sits just west of Busan, blending ancient heritage with modern conveniences. The city traces its roots to the Gaya Confederacy and is known for historic tombs, cultural parks, and riverside scenery. Modern transport links connect Gimhae to Busan's dynamic districts while preserving rural charm, markets, and hillside trails.
Visitors can explore royal tombs, local markets, and scenic viewpoints along the Nakdong River.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kimhae National Museum, where you can discover artifacts that speak of the region's rich history. After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Kimhae, absorbing the local architecture and the vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Korean breakfast of rice porridge and kimchi.
In the afternoon, visit the Kimhae Castle, where you can explore the remnants of this ancient fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to the nearby Kimhae Gaya Theme Park, where you can learn about the ancient Gaya Confederacy through various interactive exhibits. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a local eatery, sampling some authentic Korean barbecue.
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant Kimhae Night Market, where you can indulge in local street food delights like tteokbokki and hotteok. Explore the various stalls showcasing handmade crafts and traditional goods, perfect for souvenirs. Cap off your day with a refreshing drink at a nearby bar that offers an array of local wines and soju.
Kick off your adventure by heading to Baekyang Mountain, where you can enjoy a refreshing hike among lush greenery and scenic views. The morning air is crisp, and the trails are less crowded, perfect for immersing yourself in nature. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint along the way.
Once you reach the summit, take time to relax and soak in the breathtaking landscape before descending. On the way back, stop by a local restaurant to refuel with a hearty meal of bibimbap, a local favorite. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Baekyangsa Temple, a serene spot known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
Return to Kimhae in the evening, where you can unwind at a local spa or jjimjilbang to rejuvenate after your mountain escapade. Enjoy a simple dinner at a nearby noodle shop, savoring the warmth of a bowl of kalguksu. As night falls, consider a quiet walk along the river to reflect on your day's adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or drink | $3-5 |
| 🚇Public transit one-way | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good value for money and easy access to Busan
- Rich history with tombs and culture sites
- Compact city feel with easy day trips to beaches and mountains
- Limited nightlife within Gimhae compared to Busan
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Public transport coverage is better in Busan than in suburban Gimhae
- "안녕하세요" - Hello (formal)
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "네" - Yes
- "아니요" - No
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "영어 하실 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?
- "화장실이 어디에 있어요?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Kimhae
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient burial mounds set in a landscaped park — great for dawn light and wide shots.
A modern cultural site with traditional architecture, water features, and gardens perfect for photography.
Riverfront viewpoints offering golden hour reflections and sunset silhouettes.
Coastal wetland with tranquil skies and birdlife ideal for nature photography.
Food in Kimhae
Kimhae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A gently braised seafood dish using fresh local catch from the Nakdong River and nearby coast.
Must-Try!
Seasonal coastal fish often grilled and served with dipping sauces; look for family-run eateries.
A colorful mixed rice dish featuring seasonal vegetables and gochujang.
Savory seafood pancake commonly enjoyed with makgeolli or rice wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area where you can sample tteokbokki, hotteok, twigim, and fresh seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow or nod; address people by title when possible, and use formal language with unfamiliar staff.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional venues, or temples; speak softly in public spaces.
Avoid loud conversations on trains/buses; show respect to elders; avoid clapping at temple ceremonies.
Give and receive items with both hands; modest dress in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kimhae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; service charges are rarely included in bills—rounding up is not expected.
Cards are widely accepted; cash (KRW) is handy; mobile payments (Samsung Pay, Kakao Pay) are common; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers; carry water, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen; typhoon risk exists.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Cool to mild, with occasional chilly winds and light snow in the hills; layer up.
Mild and pleasant; cherry blossoms and fresh greenery; rain is moderate.
Kimhae at Night
Hiking in Kimhae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular ridge hike with city views, accessible from downtown Gimhae.
Forest trails near Busan with temples and scenic viewpoints.
Coastal trails around the bird sanctuary offering birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kimhae by plane.
Primary international airport serving Busan and Gimhae; easy taxi or rail connections to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with a growing number of expatriates and long-term residents largely in business and education sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is popular in Busan with professional teams and local leagues; fans pack stadiums.
Korean leagues and local park matches; strong community participation.
Korean martial arts heritage is strong in this region with academies and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kimhae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Korean dishes often include meat or fish; look for bibimbap or pajeon with vegetables, and ask for no meat.