Most Korean temples hide deep in the mountains, but Haedong Yonggungsa sits right on the rocky shore. Walk down 108 steps to the sound of the waves and the main hall appears, facing the open sea.
When to go
Facing the East Sea, it is a famous sunrise spot — on New Year’s morning it fills with people making wishes as the sun comes up. Around Buddha’s Birthday in spring, colorful lotus lanterns hang over the courtyard.
Nearby
Pair it with Orangdae Park and the seaside cafes of Gijang for a drive along Busan’s east coast.