Things To Do
in Ulsan
Ulsan, South Korea, is a vibrant city known for its industrial development and technological advancements. It is located on the southeast coast of the Korean Peninsula, overlooking the Sea of Japan. Ulsan is famous for its shipbuilding industry and is home to the world's largest automobile assembly plant.
The city also features beautiful beaches, cultural sites, and a thriving culinary scene that attracts visitors from around the world.
- "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
- "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
- "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $7 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Taehwagang River and enjoy the beautiful sunrise. The scenic views will energize you for the adventures ahead.
Visit the Ulsan Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Ulsan Grand Park.
Interact with locals at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant. Savor delicious grilled meats while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a visit to Gajisan Mountain for a rewarding hike and breathtaking views. The fresh air and nature will refresh your spirits.
After the hike, enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to Bangudae Petroglyphs for a glimpse of ancient artistry. The site is a perfect blend of history and nature.
Wind down with a visit to Jinhyeon Yuwon Garden, where you can relax amidst beautiful landscapes. It's a peaceful way to end your active day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong industrial base, known for automotive and shipbuilding industries
- Beautiful coastal scenery and parks, such as Ulsan Grand Park
- Rich cultural heritage with various festivals and events
- Good transportation infrastructure, including proximity to Ulsan Airport
- Mild climate suitable for outdoor activities year-round
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Air pollution concerns due to industrial activities
- Less international exposure and diversity in comparison to Seoul
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in other major cities
- Job market can be competitive, primarily focusing on a few industries
Best Activities in Ulsan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and scenic trails of Taehwagang National Park while enjoying a variety of flora and fauna.
Learn about the marine life and whale conservation efforts at the Jangsaengpo Whale Museum, which offers an insightful and educational experience.
Relax and unwind by taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Ilsan Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning coastal views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ulsan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ulsan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of the Taehwa River along with walking trails and recreational areas. Great for capturing the natural scenery and the city skyline.
A glass-bottomed skywalk that provides stunning views of the coastal cliffs and the sea. Perfect for unique and dramatic photo opportunities.
Known for its picturesque sunrise views over the East Sea and the Dinosaur Ridge, Ganjeolgot is a popular spot for landscape photography.
Food in Ulsan
Ulsan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local delicacy made with raw crab marinated in soy sauce. It can be found in numerous seafood restaurants along Ulsan's coastal areas such as Bangudae Seafood Town.
Must-Try!
A healthy and flavorful dish where various ingredients like rice, grilled meat, and vegetables are wrapped in lettuce leaves. Head to local eateries like Hwaro Sikdang for an authentic Ssambap experience.
Makchang is marinated pork intestine grilled to perfection. Experience this dish at the lively traditional market, Jangsaengpo Specialized Fish Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ulsan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with a wide array of freshly caught seafood and local delicacies like Makchang (grilled pork intestine) and Gulbi (grilled dried yellow corvina).
This alley is renowned for its diverse street food options, offering everything from spicy tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes) to ojing-eo sundae (stuffed squid).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ulsan, it is important to show respect for elders through formal language and gestures such as bowing.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a Korean home or certain businesses in Ulsan as a sign of respect.
When dining in Ulsan, it is polite to wait for the eldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting your own meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ulsan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ulsan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Ulsan, South Korea. In most cases, tipping is not expected and can even be considered rude in certain situations. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not necessary.
In Ulsan, South Korea, cash is still widely used for day-to-day transactions, although credit and debit cards are becoming more accepted, especially in urban areas and at larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and when visiting local markets or smaller shops. Foreign credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, so it's best to inquire beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ulsan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ulsan with mild temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms, and various outdoor activities.
Expect hot and humid weather in Ulsan during the summer, with opportunities for beach activities and water sports.
Ideal time to visit Ulsan as the weather cools down, offering gorgeous fall foliage and pleasant outdoor exploring.
Winter brings cold temperatures to Ulsan with possibilities for winter sports, festivals, and unique cultural experiences.
Ulsan at Night
Hiking in Ulsan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Taeha Mountain offers various trails suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners, featuring beautiful views of the Ulsan coastline.
This trail provides a scenic route along the coastline, combining hiking with the opportunity to learn about marine life at the nearby whale museum.
Muryong Mountain is known for its diverse flora and fauna, offering trails that range from easy walks to more challenging paths, ideal for nature lovers.
Famous for its sunrise views, Ganjeolgot has hiking paths that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the ocean.
Seoknamsan offers various hiking routes and is famous for its rock formations and rewarding panoramas from the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ulsan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ulsan by plane.
Located in Busan, approximately 70 km from Ulsan, this airport serves domestic and international flights.
Situated within Ulsan, this airport primarily handles domestic flights but is significant for regional travel.
Located near Seoul, about 370 km from Ulsan, it is the largest airport in South Korea and a major international gateway.
Located approximately 200 km from Ulsan, it serves as a domestic airport with some international flights.
Located about 250 km from Ulsan, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Ulsan, comprising around 95% of the population.
Includes various nationalities, with notable groups from countries such as China, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Mongolia.
Families that consist of one Korean spouse and a partner from another nationality, increasingly common in the region.
Includes individuals aged 65 and older, representing a growing segment of the demographic.
Comprising students and young adults, typically in high school and university.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Ulsan, with many local teams and a strong following for both professional and amateur leagues.
Baseball enjoys a significant fan base in Ulsan, featuring local teams and community engagement in the sport.
Basketball is widely played at schools and universities in Ulsan, with several local clubs and competitions.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women, with many recreational leagues and school teams.
As a martial art that originated in Korea, Taekwondo is widely practiced in Ulsan, with numerous dojos and competitions.
Rugby has gained popularity in Ulsan, with various clubs and league matches contributing to its growing presence.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulsan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent in Ulsan's cuisine, many restaurants also offer vegetarian-friendly options like Bibimbap (mixed rice dish), Kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables).
Although vegan options may be limited, some places offer dishes like Dubu Jorim (braised tofu), Kongnamul Guk (soybean sprout soup), and various vegetable-based banchan (side dishes).
Cafe The Med is a recommended choice for gluten-free options, providing desserts and beverages suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance.