Are You Craving Coastal South Korea? Here’s How to Spend a Weekend in Ulsan

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I spent a weekend in Ulsan and found it full of surprises. The drive from Daegu took under two hours, making it an easy escape. Ulsan combines nature, history, and quirky attractions into one unforgettable experience. I walked through bamboo forests, admired dramatic coastlines, visited botanical gardens, and relaxed at stunning cafes perched at the ocean’s edge. My weekend in Ulsan left me wanting to return.

Table of Contents

1. Daewangam Park: A Coastal Legend
2. Seoknamsa Temple: A Unique Feminine Energy
3. Jeongsa Banya Dragon Jeongjahaesu Yeogwan: The Ship Temple
4. Ganjeolgot Cape: A Sunrise to Remember
5. Taehwagang Grand Park: The Tranquility of Bamboo
6. Ulsan Botanical Garden: A Floral Escape
7. Ilsan Beach: Sand, Sea, and Safety First
8. The Ulsan Museum of Art: Escape the Heat and Get Inspired
9. How to Get to Ulsan from Daegu

Daewangam Park: A Coastal Legend

Daewangam Park is one of Ulsan’s most breathtaking natural attractions. The park’s winding trails lead through a dense pine forest and end at Daewangam Rock, a jagged islet linked to the mainland by a suspension bridge. According to legend, this rock serves as an underwater tomb for a queen who protects the East Sea. Standing at the edge of Daewangam Rock, with waves crashing below and the horizon stretching endlessly, felt like being at the edge of the world.

This visit became even more memorable when I encountered Korea’s haenyeo, or female divers, near the shore. These women, known for diving without equipment, had set up temporary stalls and were grilling their fresh catch over open flames. Watching them expertly prepare abalone and shellfish was captivating. I joined the crowd to enjoy a sample taste of grilled abalone, savoring the salty, smoky flavors that seemed to bring the sea to life.

The park is open 24 hours a day and has free admission and free parking.

Address: Daewangam Park
101, Daewang-ro, Dong-gu, Ulsan

Seoknamsa Temple: A Unique Feminine Energy

Seoknamsa Temple sits at the base of Mount Gajisan and offers a peaceful retreat into spirituality. This temple is particularly special as it serves as a sanctuary for female monks, or bhikkhunis. Unlike many male-dominated temples across Korea, Seoknamsa exudes a nurturing, feminine energy.

The temple grounds are beautifully maintained, with stone lanterns lining the entrance and colorful patterns adorning the eaves. As I wandered through, female monks quietly swept the courtyard and prepared for daily rituals. Their calm presence and deliberate movements created an atmosphere of reflection and serenity. Sitting on the stone steps, I listened to the faint chants echoing through the mountains and felt deeply connected to the moment.

The temple is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and has free admission. Visitors can also park free of charge. Seoknamsa Temple was much cooler than the rest of Ulsan that weekend, so I highly suggest a visit. Maybe you can get into a conversation about who rocked their shaved head better, too.

Address: Seoknamsa Temple
451, Seoknam-ro, Sangbuk-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan

Jeongsa Banya Dragon Jeongjahaesu Yeogwan: The Ship Temple

Jeongsa Banya Dragon Jeongjahaesu Yeogwan is one of Ulsan’s most intriguing landmarks. Built in the shape of a massive ship, this Buddhist temple sits dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea. The temple is vibrant, with dragon carvings and colorful flags fluttering in the breeze.

Beyond its striking exterior, the temple offers a rich experience. Visitors can explore prayer rooms, enjoy panoramic ocean views from the rooftop, and relax at a small café nestled within the ship. Although the heat kept me from venturing inside this time, the sight of this temple left a lasting impression. The opportunity to participate in a temple stay, engaging in Buddhist practices, makes it a unique draw for anyone visiting Ulsan.

The temple is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and has free admission. Visitors can also park free of charge.

Address: Jeongsa Banya Dragon Jeongjahaesu Yeogwan
120, Taehwa-ro, Buk-gu, Ulsan

Ganjeolgot Cape: A Sunrise to Remember

Ganjeolgot Cape is one of Korea’s most renowned sunrise destinations. Visitors gather here to witness the first light illuminating the coastline. The cape features the Ganjeolgot Lighthouse and the world’s second-largest mailbox, where you can send letters or postcards.

Strolling around the cape reveals additional attractions. Following the trail, I encountered stunning coastal vistas and arrived at the Drama House. Originally a set for the drama May Queen, it has been transformed into a restaurant and café. The view from here is breathtaking, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the morning’s beauty.

The cape is open 24 hours a day, with no admission fee. Visitors can park for free. The lighthouse operates daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Address: Ganjeolgot Cape
20, Ganjeolgot 1-gil, Seosaeng-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan

Taehwagang Grand Park: The Tranquility of Bamboo

Taehwagang Grand Park, located along the Taehwa River, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s industrial backdrop. Its bamboo forest is a highlight, with shaded paths where the soft rustling of leaves feels like a lullaby. Walking here felt meditative—a perfect pause in an otherwise busy trip.

The park is also known for its seasonal flower displays, picnic spots, and bike paths. Families, couples, and friends fill the open spaces, flying kites and strolling along the riverbanks. For me, it was a reminder of the joy found in nature’s simplicity. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic place to relax, this park should be on your list.

The park is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free. Bicycles are available for rent, with the first hour free and a nominal fee thereafter. Free parking is also available for visitors.

Address: Taehwagang Grand Park
154, Taehwa-dong, Jung-gu, Ulsan

Ulsan Botanical Garden: A Floral Escape

The Ulsan Botanical Garden, a recent addition to the city’s attractions, has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. Each section showcases a distinct theme, from tropical greenhouses to vibrant floral meadows. The attention to detail is remarkable, with every plant labeled and interactive exhibits inviting exploration.

I was particularly drawn to the peaceful atmosphere. After exploring the grounds, I enjoyed a cup of tea at the on-site café, overlooking a sea of colorful blooms. It reminded me of other great cafes in Ulsan, like La Mer Panji, where a good drink pairs perfectly with stunning surroundings.

The garden operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during March to October and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November to February. Admission is very reasonable at 7,000 won for adults and undergraduates, and 5,000 won for children and students. Visitors under 3 years old enter for free. The garden also offers free parking for added convenience.

Address: Ulsan Botanical Garden
55-1, Songjeong-dong, Buk-gu, Ulsan

Ilsan Beach: Sand, Sea, and Safety First

Our journey eventually led us to Ilsan Beach, a place of calm and respite. The soft sand beneath our feet and the sea stretching endlessly ahead reminded us how hot beach sand got in the summer. Honestly, it was so hot that weekend in Ulsan that we stayed just long enough to take a few pictures. The quarantine measures in place didn’t detract from the beauty of the moment but rather underscored the preciousness of being able to enjoy nature.

The view of Daewangam Park from the beach, with its ancient rock formations standing firm against the tides, felt almost like a reminder—nature endures, and so do we. For anyone looking to experience the simplicity of the sea while reflecting on the enduring beauty of the natural world, Ilsan Beach offers a perfect retreat.

Address: Ilsan Beach
Ilsan-dong, Dong-gu, Ulsan

The Ulsan Museum of Art: Escape the Heat and Get Inspired

The Ulsan Museum of Art is a vast, ultra-modern, multi-level space that immerses visitors in both traditional and contemporary art. Exhibits are presented in both Hangul and English, ensuring accessibility for a diverse audience. The museum regularly rotates its exhibitions, keeping each visit fresh and engaging. It also features hands-on installations and immersive digital art, with floor-to-ceiling visuals that envelop entire rooms in a quirky, interactive experience.

The entrance price is very reasonable at 1,000 won for adults, with free entry for visitors under 19 and seniors over 65. The museum also offers free parking for added convenience. It operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is closed on Mondays, Lunar New Year’s Day, and Chuseok.

This museum is more than just a cool weekend escape from the heat in Ulsan heat. It’s a space to explore, reflect, and be inspired. This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Ulsan’s cultural side.

Address: Ulsan Museum of Art
72, Doseogwan-gil, Jung-gu, Ulsan

Where We Stayed

During my weekend in Ulsan, I stayed at Hotel Riverside Ulsan. The hotel’s location near Youth Street made it easy to explore the vibrant maze of shops, cafes, and entertainment venues. Adjacent to Youth Street is the serene Taehwa River, which adds a picturesque charm to the area. Strolling along the riverbanks after enjoying the lively streets was the perfect way to unwind each evening.

Hotel Riverside Ulsan

Address: 20 Youth Street, Jung-gu, Ulsan, 44532

How to Get to Ulsan from Daegu

Ulsan is a simple and convenient weekend escape from Daegu. By car, the drive takes about an hour and a half. Alternatively, the KTX train offers a quick 50-minute ride, and buses frequently run between the two cities. Once in Ulsan, I recommend renting a car or using taxis to explore the attractions, as they are spread out across the city.

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