Things To Do
in Ulsan
Ulsan sits along Korea’s southeastern coast, where rugged cliffs meet a busy industrial port and modern city life. It’s home to world-class shipyards and automotive facilities, blending engineering prowess with parklands and beaches. Beyond the factories, the city offers green spaces, cultural sites, and standout coastal scenery.
Visitors can balance industrial heritage with nature-driven outings along the Taehwagang River and Daewangam Coastal Park.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ulsan and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local specialties like 'sujeonggwa', a sweet cinnamon tea, and 'jeon', savory pancakes. Take a stroll along the Taehwa River to soak in the serene morning atmosphere.
Visit the Ulsan Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage through its engaging exhibits. Afterward, explore the stunning whale museum, where you can see life-sized sculptures and live whale footage. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Ulsan Grand Park, perfect for relaxation and nature walks.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant specializing in 'hoe', a Korean-style sashimi, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city's nightlife. Take a leisurely walk along the beach at Jinha Beach, where you can admire the sunset over the horizon. End your evening at a cozy café, sipping on traditional Korean tea.
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Daewangam Park, where you can take a walk on the scenic trails lined with lush trees. Marvel at the famous Daewangam Rock, a historic site that offers breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café with fresh pastries and coffee.
Head to the nearby Toad Rock for a short hike, where the stunning ocean vistas will capture your heart. After hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, relishing the tranquil surroundings. Visit the nearby Ulsan Grand Park Observatory for panoramic views of the area.
Explore the local food scene by visiting the Ulsan Fish Market, where you can choose fresh seafood to be prepared right in front of you. Take in the lively atmosphere and savor the taste of your meal while seated at one of the market's many stalls. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local jazz bar for some live music and relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🍜Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong coastal scenery and accessible nature escapes
- World-class industrial heritage blended with cultural sites
- Smaller nightlife compared with major metropolises
- Seasonal variability in whale watching and coastal activities
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디예요?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Ulsan
Visit one of these nice places.
Rocky coastline, dramatic sea stacks, and a pine-covered headland offering sweeping ocean views—an iconic Ulsan photograph.
Lighthouse and expansive coastline ideal for sunrise or dramatic coastal shots, with the sea on one side and dramatic cliffs on the other.
Long canal lined with bamboo groves and walking paths; excellent for long-exposure river and greenery shots.
Wide open spaces, ponds, and tree-lined avenues that come alive with color as the light fades.
Coastal boardwalks and beach views that make for classic sunset photography with the water reflecting the sky.
Food in Ulsan
Ulsan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sashimi-style assortment of raw fish and seafood served with assorted dipping sauces; best enjoyed at coastal markets or seafood eateries.
Must-Try!
Braised yellow croaker in a savory-sweet sauce, a regional favorite in seaside restaurants especially in cooler months.
Spicy seafood stew featuring various fish, shrimp, and clams; comforting and widely available in local eateries.
Rice bowls with flavorful broths and seafood or pork accents, reflecting broader southeastern Korean coastal dining styles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh seafood, dried goods, street snacks, and prepared dishes you can enjoy on the spot.
Markets and stalls specializing in fresh catch; ideal for tasting grilled fish, skewers, and banchan along the quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with a slight bow or nod is common; use formal language with strangers and elders.
In homes or certain traditional spaces, shoes are removed before entering.
Quiet conversations on public transport, avoid loud phone calls, and wait calmly in line; giving up seats for the elderly or pregnant is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Ulsan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea; excellent service is expected as part of standard pricing. In high-end tourist hotels, a service charge may be included; otherwise, small gifts or a verbal thank you are customary if you want to show appreciation.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms around coastal parks; great for outdoor walking and city exploration.
Warm to hot days with humidity; a peak season for seafood markets and coastal activities; occasional typhoons in late summer.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage in parks and along the river; ideal for photography and hiking.
Cool to cold with rare snowfall inland; coastal winds can be brisk; hot soups and seafood help balance the chill.
Ulsan at Night
Hiking in Ulsan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with sea views and rocky promontories; a popular day trip for outdoor lovers.
Gentle-to-moderate trails offering inland scenery and forested terrain within a short drive of central Ulsan.
Airports
How to reach Ulsan by plane.
Small domestic airport serving mainlines to Seoul and Jeju; convenient for quick trips and regional connections.
Major regional and international hub about 1–1.5 hours away by car or rail; broad domestic and international flight options.
Secondary regional airport within reach for domestic flights and some international services; useful for southern and central Korea access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with a growing number of expatriates and foreign workers in industrial and service sectors.
Smaller communities of Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and other nationalities living and working in Ulsan, contributing to a diverse city atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ulsan Hyundai FC is a prominent K League team, drawing local support and match-day energy.
Active baseball culture with local and regional games; watching a game can be a fun family activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulsan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie jjigae or bibimbap options; ask for no anchovy stock in broths and request oil-free sides; many menus offer tofu dishes and vegetable stews.