5 things to do on a rainy Busan day

Rain is brilliant. Let me rephrase that: rain is brilliant when you have the right shoes, a big enough umbrella and best of all - when you can stay home with a steaming cup of Ramen noodles, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” and a blanket. 

Yesterday Busan saw a bit of rain and I found myself thinking of all the things I would do under cloud-cover. If you're planning on teaching in Korea, here are 5 things to do in Busan, when it rains. #YouAreWelcome

1. Busan’s Trick Eye Museum

Aamena, Tarryn and I appreciating art. 

The museum is quite a treat if you’re looking for a chance to interact with the art. Step into, step on, stand beside, lie down and alongside the 3D images. I would advise that you go with a mate or two; somebody needs to hold the camera and/or pose with you while you're in the giant sea-monster's grip! Tip: Selfie sticks won’t do you, or the pictures justice.

• Directions: From Jagalchi Subway, exit 7, walk straight out of the subway. Take the first left. Walk one block- the Museum is in the building on your left, on the 2nd block. OR see the map here. 
• It’s open from 10:00 - 20:00.
• Admission: 10,000won per adult.

2. Spa Land

I’ve written about my scrub-experience here, but if you're looking for a day of relaxation minus the skin smarting scrub, head to Spa Land anyway! It's on the must do things in Busan.

• Directions: Take the green subway line to the Centum City stop, get out at exit 2. You will see signs directing you.
• Hours: 06:00 - 24:00
• Admission: 15,000won during the week and 18,000won over the weekend and on holidays.

3. Busan Museum

Royalty for the day. 

Stunning designs after we learnt how to Roof- Tile Rub.

I thoroughly enjoyed strolling through this museum and peeking into Korean history. There are modern Exhibition Halls filled with relics and a Cultural Experience Hall. The Experience Hall was my favourite! Here you have an opportunity to get your hands dirty by doing Roof-Tile Rubbing and playing dress-up in traditional Korean Hanboks (dresses).

I’ve found it a bit challenging to sometimes find souvenirs in Busan, but the Museum also has a Museum Shop for you to peruse.

• Directions: We got lost, but we took a cab from Daeyeon Station, exit 3. If you walk via the UN Memorial Cemetery, you’re good.
• Hours: 09:00 - 19:00.
• Admission: Free (There is a small charge if you decide to do the Roof-Tile Rubbing).

4. Cinema

Have you been to a cinema in Korea as yet madam/sir? If not, I suggest you go on a rainy day! I quite like observing and taking in my surrounds; the cinema does not disappoint. 

The first time I EVER walked into a cinema here in Korea, I was amazed by the very sweet smell in the air. It's from the different flavored popcorn you can get: caramel flavored, to onion flavored… which ended up having a sweet taste to it too! 

The seating arrangement is the same as South Africa- you are assigned seats. English movies are played with Korean subtitles.

The best moments for me, as a teacher in Korean, have been when English speakers may laugh at a joke in the movie, but we are the ONLY ones laughing because the Korean translation may have been different. Other times, Korean folk are laughing, while I’m sitting there wondering what I missed. To book tickets in advance or see what’s playing, check out CineInKorea.

5. Busan English Library

When last did you visit a library to sniff the crisp pages? It’s been ages since I’ve made my way to the Busan English Library mainly because I’m reading my own books at the moment, but I thought I'd share this gem with you. 

The library spans across one floor. There is a sitting and study area, computers, lockers for your belongings and librarians to assist. 

Signing-up is done in the library and you are issued with a card to use for each visit. Five books can be taken out for two weeks. I'd say this is a 'low-key' thing to do in Busan, but still a must. Get more info here. 

• Directions: Take the Green Line to the Buam stop. Walk out of exit 1, the library will be in the large building on your right.
• Open from 09:00 - 21:00 on weekdays and 09:00 - 18:00 on Saturdays.

What do you like to get up to on a rainy day in your town or city?