Getting There

The author departs Friday at 5 PM for Busan via intercity bus from Gwanyang-Si. Despite navigating a confusing ticket situation and initial confusion about the correct platform, he eventually boards a bus heading to Busan. After arriving at a different terminal than expected around 10 PM, he takes the metro to his hostel. There's a metro card scanning mishap at the exit, but a helpful official allows him through. He ends the evening with burgers on Gwangali Beach with his hostel owner.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

The traveler visits this seaside temple early Sunday morning at 7 AM to avoid crowds. However, he finds it packed despite the early hour due to Buddha's birthday weekend. The temple overlooks the bay with sections elevated and portions directly on rocky water. He describes it as "a beautiful area" and recommends it highly, noting it offers "a nice change of pace from all the other temples."

Busan Sea Life

He visits the Busan Aquarium, initially hesitant about the venue but convinced by others. He documents various marine life through photos and video.

Samgwangsa Temple

Sunday evening finds him at this temple, also crowded with Buddha's birthday celebrations. Thousands of lanterns cover the courtyard. He and a British companion climb onto a pagoda roof via a side window to view the ceremony and lantern-lighting ceremony from above.

The author reflects on the cultural significance of Buddhist symbols, noting how the swastika carries vastly different meanings across cultures—representing spirituality in Buddhism but bearing dark associations in Western contexts.