Masan

Understand

Developed in the 1970s, it was designed to be the new capital for Gyeongsangnam-do and an alternative capital for the country should Seoul be invaded. The city is surrounded by mountains which provides protection. A missile defense station sits on top of the southern mountain range. Changwon boasts of the longest straight road in the nation (Changwon Main Road - Changwondae-no) which is over 12 km long. If necessary the road can be used as a landing runway. The city is home to many high-technology and machine industries, including LG, Samsung, GM Daewoo, and their employees in a high-quality urban space. Changwon Main Road divides the town with the industries mostly being on the western side and the urban environment mostly being on the eastern side. The neighboring cities Jinhae and Masan have since 2010 administratively been parts of Changwon. Changwon is a planned city based on public works and a center of South Gyeongsangnam-do. Among non-capital areas, Changwon has the largest population including capital areas, Changwon followed by Suwon, Goyang and Yongin. The climate of Changwon has a very similar climate to Busan nearby Changwon. Changwon is very hot in the summer and is also the place where tropical nights are observed very frequently in Korea. On the other hand, it is not very cold in winter and it snows rarely. There is not much snow in Changwon generally, so traffic is often paralyzed if it barely snows in Changwon.

Getting there

Changwon is to the west of Busan, and most travel to Changwon is via this international hub. Located in the southeastern part of Gyeongsangnam-do, it is located in Gangseo-gu in Busan and Gimhae to the east, bordering Miryang and Changnyeong-gun on the Nakdong River to the north, Haman-gun, Jinju, Goseong-gun to the west, and Geoje City to the south. There is Masan Bay in the center of the city and Jinhae Bay in the south.

The existing three cities of Masan, Changwon, and Jinhae integrated and operated city buses, and today, they have deeply linked and cooperated in transportation, culture, and infrastructure, including Dongmasan IC, the main gateway of Changwon.

By plane The nearest airport is Gimhae International Airport. (PUS IATA) in Busan, the neighboring town to the east.

By train The Mugunghwa, Saemaeul and KTX (Korea Train Express) trains arrive at the Changwon Train Station in the north part of the urban area of town. There are KTX stops at Changwon Train station, Changwonjungang Train station, and Masan Train station. You can travel directly to Changwon from Seoul Station without any transfers or connections.

1 Changwon station (창원역). (updated Aug 2021)

By bus Buses connect Changwon to most of the other cities in Gyeongsangnam-do via the Express bus terminal. Some buses connect with Changwon at the Namsan terminal in the south part of town, including buses for Busan. Express buses connect directly to Seoul several times a day. Buses from Busan mainly depart from the Seobu bus station in Sasang-gu. It's a short walk from the Sasang subway station to Seobu. The fare is about ₩3500. Masan's intercity bus terminal serves destinations in the vicinity. There are frequent buses to Busan and Jinju (₩4,000 and one hour), as well as longer routes serving Tongyeong and far southern Geoje.

Getting around

There are two types of city buses; express and normal. The express bus costs a little more but have fewer stops. The normal bus stops at every stop and most routes run into neighboring towns Jinhae and Masan. Current cash price is ₩1,300 for a normal bus and ₩1,800 for an express. When using a transportation card (T-money card) for payment, price is ₩1,250 for a normal bus and ₩1,750 for an express. Taxis are also a very common mode of transportation. Taxis can almost always be flagged down within a couple minutes on any semi-major to major road. All taxis (including black) start at ₩3,300 during the day but the starting rate goes up to ₩3,960‬ after midnight. And you can use the bike rental service. One of the best places to ride bicycles in Korea is the old Changwon city area. This is due to bicycle lanes installed on all major roads in the city. Nubiza is a combination of Nubida and Bicycle, which is a public bicycle service that is loaned from Changwon City. It is also South Korea's first public bike that began on October 22, 2004. Nubiza's terminals are located in many places in the city like bus stops, each with kiosks. If you pay a reasonable price, you can rent a bicycle, but if you rent it and don't return it for an hour and a half, you'll get a call to return it quickly. In this case, you can return it and rent it again. The Nubiza bike has a speedometer so you can check the mileage, time, etc. And it has headlights and rear lights, so there's no problem with night driving.

See

dott Island the nation's first marine amusement park. It is operated as a small recreation park. 1 Junam reservoir (주남저수지). Junam Reservoir, called the migratory paradise, is a beautiful migratory bird with an area of 898 hectares and 109 species of migratory birds. It is home to thousands of migratory birds, which are visited every year, where you can meet various aquatic plants and aquatic insects. If you go to the Junam Reservoir Ecology Exhibition Room, you will be able to see the sample frame so that you can feel Junam's ecosystem such as the birds of the Junam Reservoir, the plants that bloom around, and the insects that live in the grass. Opening hours 09: 00 ~ 17: 30, Closed every Monday from April to September. 0₩. 2 Cherry blossom festival(gun-hang-jae) (창원벚꽃축제), In the district of Jinhae (take local bus 151 from Changwon bus terminal to Jinhae). held yearly, in April 1-10. There are possibly more cherry blossom trees to be seen here than in any other location in Korea, and although there are a couple of popular, groomed places for visitors to see them, you can find them strewn throughout the hillsides surrounding the town of Jinhae. During this period, some areas of the designated military navigation system will be opened to the public. Photographing inside the naval base is prohibited in principle, but it is possible to take pictures under the Cherry Blossom Road unless the base building or other military facilities are taken openly. A private car can come in but cannot be parked inside. There are two primary locations that visitors go to see them. One is the train tracks just next to the high school that is a major bus stop. If you wait long enough, trains will come through this spot at a very low speed, making some idyllic photo shots as they roll through the cherry blossom lane. The other location is at Yeo-jwa Stream in the downtown section of Jinhae, located a 30 minute walk north of the bus station. The deck is fully equipped for walking, and you can feel as if you are walking in the air while being hit by a flower petal rain. It is decorated with LED lights, so it is good to see at night. At this location there is a small stream lined with cherry blossom trees on both sides that tourists are sure to be flocking around. The location marked on the map is Yeo-jwa Stream. (updated Sep 2019) 3 Masan Fish market (마산 어시장), In the district of Masan. There is a fish market near the bay of Masan. It is a market with a tradition of 230 years. It is the nation's largest fish market, with an average of 3-50,000 people daily. Fish Street (Jin-dong

Do

Hiking. Hike around the many mountains that surround the city and catch wonderful views. Sports. Watch and bet on bicycle races, basketball (LG Sakers, based at LG Champion's Park), soccer (Gyeongnam FC, based at Changwon Football Center) or baseball (NC Dinos, based at Changwon NC Park). Play badminton on one of many public courts. (updated May 2019) 1 Dotseom Island. Take a ferry out to Dotseom Island, which has a carnival and circus in Masan Bay. 2 Muhaksan (무학산). Hike up Muhaksan, a 700-m mountain near Masan's city center. In particular, the Seowongok Valley in the east is a lush tree landscape, making it a favorite resting place for Changwon citizens. Hakbong, at the top, blends azaleas blooming in the mountains, creating a superb view in spring. (updated May 2019) 3 Changwon Ziptrek (창원짚트랙), jinhae-gu myeongdong-lo62 jinhaehaeyang-Park 99tower, ☏ +82 55 547-2199. 09:00-18:00. If you take Changwon Ziptrek, you can experience a dizzying aerial flight of 1,399 meters from 99 tower to Sokuri island at a maximum speed of 80 kilometers per hour, and return to the jet boat. The time required is 30~40 minutes including safety training. ₩40,000. (updated Dec 2019) 4 Yongji Moving boat (용지호수 무빙보트), ☏ +82 55 262-8100. 10:00-22:00. It is an electric boat that can be easily operated by anyone. Visitors can enjoy the food and beverage they have prepared by driving on their own and enjoying it on the boat, which can be used as a cafe on the lake. Also, at night, the boat is lit with LED lights. 30 minutes, ₩20,000 for 4 people; 60 minutes, ₩30,000 for 4 people (+ extra ₩5,000 per person). Drinking and smoking in boats is prohibited. Children under 18 years of age without carers and drunk are not allowed to board. (updated Dec 2019) 5 Wood Culture Experience Center (진해드림파크 목재문화체험관), ☏ +82 55 548-2687. 09:00-18:00. Museum of Wood Culture. It is a hands-on experience center where you can see and learn the importance of forest culture and the value of using wood. There is a comprehensive exhibition hall where you can see information about trees such as the history of wooden houses in Korea, the origin of trees, the growth of trees, and the history of the use of wood. There are also wood observation trails, outdoor training grounds and ecological wetlands. You can make various wood products such as crafts and tools using wood. (updated Dec 2019) 6 Yangchon Hot Spring (양촌온천). Hot spring water from Yangchon Village is also popular as it is rich in minerals. The gentle nature of water helps promote blood and is effective in cases of neuralgia, rheumatism, neuropathy,

Buy

Changwon is known for its watermelons and persimmons. If you're cooking for more than one person, check out the traditional markets for fresh fruits and veggies at great prices. For the shoppers out there, Changwon has a Lotte Mart, Lotte Dept Store, and an Emart all centrally located by the Rotary across from City Hall. Daedong Dept Store's not too far from the Rotary as well. There's also a Home Plus and New Core Outlet near the bus terminal, and City 7 beside Changwon's Pullman Hotel.

1 LotteMart (롯데마트 진해점), 762 Jinhae-daero, Jinhae-gu, ☏ +82 55 541-2500. 10:00-23:00. It is the first large discount store in Jinhae. Fresh food, kitchen, fashion, consumer electronics, stationery, toys, a variety of customer convenience facilities (such as oriental medicine clinics, dental clinics, and animal hospitals), and a cultural center with parking lots. (updated Nov 2019) 2 E-Mart (이마트 창원점), Seongsan-gu, Jungang-dong, Won-i-daero, 608. 10:00-23:00. Paid parking: purchase amount less than ₩10,000 = 1 hour free, more than ₩10,000 = 2 hours free, over ₩30,000 = 3 hours free, more than ₩50,000 = 4 hours free. It is closed on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. (updated Dec 2019) 3 Lotte Department Store (롯데백화점 창원점), ☏ +82 55 279-2500. 10:30-20:00. It is connected to Lotte Mart by underground passage. There is a movie theater called 'Lotte Cinema' on the third floor. Parking is available for a fee and can be used free of charge depending on the purchase price. ₩2,000 for the first 30 minutes and ₩500 for every 10 minutes thereafter. (updated Dec 2019) 4 Lotte Mart (롯데마트 창원중앙점), seongsan gu jung-ang dong jung-ang daelo 123, ☏ +82 55 240-2500. 10:00-23:00. It is connected to Lotte Department Store by underground passage. Hi-mart, restaurant, fast food, cafe, fashion goods, cosmetics, nail bar, beauty salon, skin care, pharmacy, hospital, car wash, glasses, laundry, photo studio, bicycle shop. Also, There is a large wine shop. It is closed on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. (updated Dec 2019) 5 Daedong Department Store (대동백화점), ☏ +82 55 212-8000. 10:30-20:30. Amenity: If you go to the information desk on 1F, you can rent baby strollers while you shop. The Sky Park on the fourth floor offers a children's playground and a comfortable rest area. (updated Dec 2019) 6 Home Plus (홈플러스 창원점), 415 Changwon-daero, Uichang-gu, ☏ +82 55-270-8000. 10AM-23PM. (updated Sep 2023) 7 New Core Outlet (뉴코아아울렛 창원점), New Core Outlet, 6, Changwon-daero 397, Uichang-gu, ☏ +82 55-270-7000. 10:30-22:00. (updated Sep 2023)

Eat

Various kinds of seafood Because there is a huge fish market, the quality of seafood, including fish, is as good as that of high-end department stores. Benningan's (Located across the street from Canberra Hotel.). Bombay, 98-3 Jugang Dong, Chagwon, ☏ +82 55 2634111. 11:00-23:00. Bombay is a nice Indian restaurant. Friendly staff and quick service. Prices are reasonable. Roll's Rice (directly opposite the terminal entrance, in Masan). Colorful dine-in sushi options and fusion dishes (think pastas, pilaf, omu-rice). Mains typically around ₩8,000. Brown Hands, 109, Gaposunhwan-ro, Masanhappo-gu, ☏ +82 55-243-0050. 10:00-00:00. This is where the old cafe was reborn as a garage. If you go there, you can see the former garage. peloapelo, 137-1, Synagogi-gil, Masan-gu, ☏ +82 55-299-6264. 11:00-22:00 (open all year round, at 15:00 on holiday day). This cafe sells various kinds of pancakes. 1 LimJinGak restaurant (임진각), 1st and 2nd floors of 515 KR Imjingak Restaurant, Palyong-ro, Uichang-gu, ☏ +82 552563535. M-F 11:00-21:00. You can order delicious small rice soup and grilled meat. ₩20,000-30,000. (updated Dec 2022) 2 a mountain and rice restaurant (산미 본점), 1168, Cheonju-ro, Buk-myeon, Uichang-gu, ☏ +82 55-298-0089. 10:00-17:20. Peanut noodles - 8000₩,. (updated Sep 2023) 3 Mad for Garlic (매드 포 갈릭), 1st Floor, Rivera Convention, 9, Jungang-daero 100beon-gil, Seongsan-gu. 11:30-21:00. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, A perfect spot for dates or special dinners, known for its reasonable prices and frequent promotions. (updated Dec 2024) 4 Sushi Hon (스시 혼), 1, Yongji-ro 249beon-gil, Seongsan-gu. Monday to Friday: 11:30-21:00, Saturday: 11:30-15:00. Menu: Omakase, sushi sets, and lunch specials. Closed on Sundays. Renowned for its fresh sushi, high-quality omakase, and excellent service. One of the most popular sushi restaurants in Changwon. (updated Dec 2024) 5 Moru Restaurant (모루식당), 7, Yongji-ro 265beon-gil, Seongsan-gu. 10:30-21:00. A popular Instagram-worthy curry spot, ideal for casual dates or a cozy dining experience. Famous for its diverse curry options and stylish presentation. (updated Dec 2024) 6 Pan Asia (팬아시아), 4, Yongji-ro 239beon-gil, Seongsan-gu. 11:30-21:00. A stylish Asian restaurant serving a variety of Southeast Asian dishes. Ideal for family gatherings, dates, and casual meals. Known for its generous portions and great service. (updated Dec 2024) 7 Sushi Taro (스시 타로), 109-1, Namsan-ro, Uichang-gu. 18:00-21:50. An elegant sushi omakase experience with a rotating menu of seasonal and fresh ingredients. Widely regarded as Changwon's pre

Drink & nightlife

1 O'Briens Irish Bar & Restaurant, 98-3 Jungang-dong, Seongsan-gu, ☏ +82 55-286-6547. 18:00-02:00. 2 Monster Bar (Monster), #206, 78, Yongji-ro, Seongsan-gu (around the corner from Cacaoria), ☏ +82 55-603-0510. 19:00-02:00. A western-orientated bar with a cool interior, good food and drink, and an owner who speaks great English. Intimate. Has games like pop up pirate to play if the conversation lulls! Good meal deals on Friday nights. 3 1997 British House (1997 영국집), 15 Changwon-daero 463beon-gil, Uichang-gu. 9:00-23:00. British-themed café offering freshly baked bread, pastries (e.g., almond croissants, pretzels), and a unique "British Coffee" resembling an affogato with thick cream. (updated Dec 2024) 4 Evans Coffee (에반스커피), 506 Cheonju-ro, Bukmyeon, Uichang-gu. 10:00-22:00. Famous for its signature "Evans Coffee" (espresso topped with sweet coffee cream and rosemary). They also serve Syphon Coffee and a variety of desserts like caramel cheesecake and croffles. (updated Dec 2024) 5 Elev (엘레브), 19 Guisan-ro, Seongsan-gu. 10:30-24:00. Modern café with ocean views, known for its aesthetic design and diverse offerings, including coffee, bread, and Japanese-style katsu from the attached "Sayakatsu." (updated Dec 2024) 6 Offt Café (오프트 카페), 10-1 Changwon-daero 449beon-gil, Uichang-gu. 08:00-22:00. Famous for brunch menus, including avocado toast and savory pancakes, alongside signature lattes and handcrafted teas. (updated Dec 2024) 7 Hokkilin Coffee Roasters (호끼린 커피 로스터스), 23 Jinhae-daero 429beon-gil, Jinhae-gu. 9:30-21:30. A must-visit for coffee enthusiasts, Hokkilin specializes in freshly roasted coffee beans with a variety of brewing methods (drip, espresso, etc.). (updated Dec 2024) 8 Sur Café (수르 카페), 42 Garo-gil, Seongsan-gu. 10:00-22:00. Famous for Organic beverages and desserts, Herbal teas and fresh desserts, Green-themed interior perfect for relaxation (updated Dec 2024) 9 Coffee San (커피 산), 108 Sanbok-ro, Masanhappo-gu. 9:00-22:00. Large 5-story cafe with ocean and mountain views. Famous for Signature coffees, smoothies, and desserts (updated Dec 2024) 10 Bobos Café (보보스 카페), 23 Yeojacheon-ro, Jinhae-gu. 9:00-21:00. Vintage-style café with an Instagram-friendly atmosphere. Famous for Croffles, cakes, and a variety of coffees (updated Dec 2024) 11 Noted (노티드), 420 Changwon-daero, Seongsan-gu. 10:00-23:00. Known for its elegant ambiance, this café is perfect for enjoying high-quality desserts and beverages in a luxurious setting. (updated Dec 2024) 12 Bbangnaem (Baker's Scent) (빵내음), 100 Changwon-daero, Seongsan-gu. 9:00-21:00. A bakery café o

Sleep

Budget Nambu Sauna and Jjimjilbang, C:nus building, 4F (Downtown Masan near the bus terminal; walk out to the intersection and it's diagonally opposite McDonalds). A jjimjilbang within 100 m of the Nambu intercity bus terminal. Expect sauna access, cotton pajamas and a pile of blankets to sleep on the heated communal floor. Has an ice room in addition to the usual array of heated rooms with decor a tiny bit more diverse than the usual warm-cube-coated-in-amethysts. ₩7,500.

Mid-range Changwon Hotel. Canberra Hotel. 1 Hotel Leo (호텔 레오), 42 Garo-gil, Seongsan-gu. Located just a 3-minute drive from Changwon City Hall, offering convenient access. Guests can enjoy streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney Plus via the KT set-top box. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Hotel Chicago (호텔 시카고), 150 Changwon-daero, Seongsan-gu. Located just an 8-minute walk from Changwon Convention Center. The hotel has underground parking, but larger vehicles (SUVs) should use the first-floor parking facilities. (updated Dec 2024) 3 Casa Day Hotel (까사데이 호텔), 88 Yeonji-ro, Seongsan-gu. Situated in the entertainment and leisure district of Changwon. Free Wi-Fi and self-parking services are available. (updated Dec 2024) 4 Business Tourist Hotel (비즈니스 투어리스트 호텔), 5 Changwon-daero, Uichang-gu. Offers self-check-in service, with flexible check-in times available based on room availability. The minimum check-in age is 15. (updated Dec 2024)

Splurge Pullman Ambassador Changwon City 7 (Pullman Hotel), 122 Daewon-dong, 641-210 Changwon, ☏ +82 55-6000700. By far the most luxurious hotel in Changwon.