Busan in Autumn: Best Places to See Fall Foliage

Autumn in Busan is seriously beautiful. The air cools down, the beaches get quiet, and the city transforms into shades of gold and red. 

Whether you’re chasing the best Busan fall foliage or just want a relaxed weekend by the sea, there are so many places to enjoy it. In this travel guide, I’ll show you my favorite spots to see autumn leaves in Busan, from scenic mountain parks to quiet temples and ocean viewpoints.

When to see fall foliage in Busan

If you’re visiting Busan in autumn, you’re in for a treat. The city starts to change color around mid-October, but the leaves are at their best from late October to early November.

I always think fall is the best time to visit Busan. It’s cooler, comfortable, and perfect for walking around without feeling rushed.

Busan’s a bit warmer than Seoul, so the fall foliage here shows up later and sticks around longer. You’ll notice the trees in Geumjeongsan and Jangsan turning first, then the colors spread to the temples, parks, and coastal trails. By the time November rolls in, the whole city looks like it’s been brushed with gold.

If you can, plan your trip for the last week of October or the first week of November. That’s when the colors usually peak according to the fall foliage forecast.

You don’t need to chase exact dates. Even if you come a bit earlier or later, there’ll still be plenty of autumn charm to enjoy.

Best temples for Busan autumn foliage

Beomeosa Temple (범어사)

Beomeosa Temple is one of the best places to experience autumn in Busan. Perched high on Geumjeongsan Mountain, it’s surrounded by trails that explode into deep reds and golds when the leaves start to change.

The whole area feels calm and peaceful, even though it’s just a short subway and bus ride from downtown. 

I like walking slowly up the temple path, where the stone walls peek through maple branches and the air smells faintly of pine. It’s easy to see why locals come here to hike, reflect, or just enjoy the season.

Plan to spend at least a few hours here. There’s a small teahouse near the entrance, and the trails around the temple are perfect for slow scenic walks when the fall foliage is at its peak.

Seokbulsa Temple (석불사)

If you want something a little off the beaten path, Seokbulsa is my pick. It’s one of the most underrated spots for fall foliage in Busan, and it feels like a mini adventure to get there.

You can hike from Geumgang Park cable car or Mandeok Station, and both routes take you through quiet forest trails that look beautiful in autumn. The colors pop against the gray stone cliffs! 

And when you finally reach the temple, you’re rewarded with massive Buddha carvings and panoramic views over the city.

What I love most is how peaceful it is. You won’t find big crowds here, even during peak foliage season. It’s a great spot if you want that “hidden temple in the mountains” kind of feeling without leaving Busan.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (해동용궁사)

Haedong Yonggungsa is easily one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea, and it’s even more stunning in autumn. 

Set dramatically on the coast, it’s one of the few seaside temples in the country, where ocean waves crash against the rocks below while bright red and yellow trees frame the pagodas above.

I love visiting around mid to late November when the foliage contrasts with the deep blue sea. It’s beautiful at sunrise, though it’s worth visiting any time of day for the views alone. The walk from the main gate to the temple is lined with little food stalls, souvenir shops, and spots to snap photos. Samgwangsa Temple (삼광사)

Samgwangsa Temple might be one of the most underrated places in Busan in autumn. It’s set on a hillside north of Seomyeon, and when the trees start to turn red and gold, the whole temple seems to glow.

The complex is huge, and you can easily spend an hour wandering the stairways and courtyards. From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city surrounded by fall colors. It’s pretty in the late afternoon when the light hits the trees.

I like how peaceful it feels here, even though you’re still in the city. You don’t need a car or a long hike to get there. 

Best mountains to visit in Busan in autumn

Geumjeongsan Mountain (금정산)

Geumjeongsan is one of my favorite places to enjoy fall colors in Busan, not just because of the views.

It’s part of Geumjeongsan Provincial Park, which feels a lot like a mini national park right inside the city. The whole area is peaceful, green, and full of history. You’ll find old fortress walls, forest trails, and little temples here.

When the leaves turn, Geumjeongsan mountain glows in every shade of gold and red. The path near Beomeosa Temple is stunning in late October. You can walk up to Geumjeongsanseong Fortress if you’re up for it, or just take the shorter route from Beomeosa Station for easier access.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still catch a great view by taking the Geumgang Park cable car. The view from the top is incredible, especially when Busan’s skyline peeks through the autumn leaves.

Seunghaksan Mountain (승학산)

Seunghaksan isn’t as famous as the other Busan mountains, but I think that’s what makes it so special.  It’s quiet, local, and full of cultural heritage that feels deeply connected to the city’s history.

When I visited it last fall, I remember how the golden silver grass swayed in the wind, and the sunlight made the whole hillside glow.

It’s not a hard hike, more of a slow climb, and the reward is one of the best views in Busan. You can see Gamcheon Culture Village, the harbor, and the sea all at once. 

If you’re visiting between late October and early November, the mountain is at its peak color. The trails are peaceful, and it’s a nice break from the city’s busy markets and beaches.

Jangsan Mountain (장산)

Jangsan is my favorite mix of mountain and city views. It’s close to Haeundae, so you can start your morning hiking trails through colorful forests and end your afternoon with coffee by the beach.

The trail starts easy, with pine trees all around and the smell of fresh forest air. As you climb higher, you’ll see flashes of red and orange leaves between the trees, and once you reach the top. Wow! The view of Haeundae Beach and Gwangandaegyo Bridge is unreal.

What I love most is that you get the best of both worlds here: vibrant fall colors and that endless coastal view that makes Busan so special. 

If you still have energy after the hike, stop by Dalmaji Hill nearby for a sunset coffee. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your day of chasing fall foliage in Busan.

Best Coastal Spots in Busan for Autumn Views

Oryukdo Skywalk & Igidae Coastal Walk

You know that spot that makes you stop and go, “Okay, this is incredible”? That’s the Oryukdo Skywalk.

You step onto a glass bridge hanging over a cliff, and below you, the waves crash against the rocks. It’s both thrilling and beautiful in autumn, when the cliffs and coastal paths around Igidae start to turn golden and red.

I like combining this with the Igidae Coastal Walk nearby. The trail hugs the cliffs, weaving between ocean views, forest paths, and glimpses of the city skyline. 

You don’t need to be a serious hiker to enjoy it either. Just wear comfy shoes, bring a coffee, and take your time.

Taejongdae Resort Park

If you want a mix of forest, ocean cliffs, and lighthouse views, Taejongdae should be at the top of your list. Located on Yeongdo Island, it’s one of the most scenic coastal parks in Busan.

It’s gorgeous in autumn. The trees turn shades of orange and red while the sea below stays that deep blue.

You can take the small Danubi train around if you don’t feel like walking, but I like wandering the cliff trails instead. There are quiet lookout points, a lighthouse, and even spots to sit and just listen to the wind and waves. 

Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory

Ever tried walking above the ocean? That’s what Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory feels like. The glass skywalk stretches over the water, and when you look down, the waves are right under your feet. It’s a little nerve-racking at first, but the view is amazing.

Autumn is the best time to come. The weather’s cool, the skies are crystal clear, and the sunlight hits the water just right. From up here, you can spot fishing boats, rocky cliffs, and the curve of Haeundae’s coastline.

When you’re done, grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafés nearby and watch the sunset paint the sea gold. 

Eulsukdo Island (Nakdong River Estuary)

Eulsukdo Island might not be near the ocean cliffs, but it’s one of Busan’s most peaceful autumn spots. The reed fields here turn golden in late October and November, and when the wind blows, the whole landscape moves like waves. It’s incredibly calming.

I like coming here when I want a slower day, I love walking the trails, watching the birds, or sitting by the river with a hot drink.

Orangdae Park (오랑대공원)

Orangdae Park might be small, but it’s one of the prettiest coastal spots to experience Korea autumn.

It’s near Songjeong Beach and looks out over the ocean from a rocky cliff. There’s a tiny stone altar at the edge of the coast, and behind it, you’ll find golden reeds and trees starting to change color.

It’s not covered in fall leaves like the mountains, but the contrast between the autumn tones and the blue sea is stunning.

Come in the late afternoon if you can. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and perfectly captures that calm Busan feeling in autumn.

Bonus: Oncheoncheon Stream (온천천)

I love strolling along Oncheoncheon Stream in autumn. The stream runs right through the city but feels calm and local, lined with trees that turn bright yellow and red as the season peaks. You’ll see families, cyclists, and couples walking hand in hand under the canopy of leaves.

If you start near Oncheonjang Station and walk toward City Hall, you’ll get some of the best foliage views along the stream. It’s not as dramatic as the mountain spots, but it’s the perfect easy walk.

Before you go

Before you start planning your autumn trip to Busan, make sure you’ve got the essentials covered.

Start with my Korea travel resources to get a quick overview of what to expect. Once you land, staying connected is easy, I compared everything you need to know in Korea SIM cards.

Getting around the city? Don’t forget your T-money card. It’ll make using the subway and buses a breeze. And since small gestures matter in Korea, my Korea travel etiquette guide will help you blend in and feel confident wherever you go.

And of course, eat everything you can. From spicy rice cakes to sweet pancakes, Korean street food is an experience you don’t want to miss.