Dalmaji Hill

Dalmaji Hill is one of Busan’s eight scenic areas and is a beautiful place to spend a day exploring. The famous road weaves and winds its way up the dramatic coastline, along high cliffs overlooking the ocean. Rent a car and enjoy this wonderful driving road, being sure to take in the staggering views as you go. Leave time to stop for lunch or coffee at one of the lovely cafés that this part of the city is known for.

Located on a bluff southeast of Haeundae Beach, Dalmaji Hill is utterly delightful. Traditional and modern Korean buildings are home to quirky cafés, with many of them offering excellent views across the sea. The good coffee and sunny sea views help explain why this area is so popular with Busan’s young residents. Join these locals and soak up the laid-back ambiance that Dalmaji Hill exudes.

While Dalmaji is quiet for most of the year, visit on the first full moon of the year to experience a very different side to the area. Some 300,000 moon watchers descend on Dalmaji Hill and nearby Haeundae Beach to see the natural phenomenon unfold. In fact, the name Dalmaji comes from the Korean words “dal”(ritual) and “maji”(rising), referring to the moonrise. Join the crowds for a truly memorable experience during which music, traditional dance and prayer ceremonies take place. Offerings are also made to the sea in a ceremony known as “Feeding the Dragon King.”

Dalmaji Hill is located in the Haeundae district of Busan. Come by car to take advantage of the many free parking spaces that are available at most times, except during the full moon celebrations. The area is also accessible by public transportation, with bus stops nearby.