Choryang Ibagu-gil, Busan - Hong kong, village
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Choryang Ibagu-gil Busan

4.2
·944 reviews·, South Korea

A historic hillside village in Busan, featuring steep '168 Stairs' adorned with murals and a charming, free monorail offering city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Choryang Ibagu-gil, Busan - Hong kong, village

Choryang Ibagu-gil Busan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic hillside village in Busan, featuring steep '168 Stairs' adorned with murals and a charming, free monorail offering city views.

4.2
(944 reviews)

"The free monorail and fantastic views make this a must-visit for a glimpse into Busan's past and present."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

The '168 Stairs' are steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the village.

🚠 Monorail Check

The Somang Monorail is free but can be closed. Check its status before you go!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Somang Monorail (Stairs of Wishes)

Somang Monorail (Stairs of Wishes)

Base of the 168 Stairs

A free, charming monorail offering a unique ride up the hillside, providing stunning city views.

The 168 Stairs

The 168 Stairs

Choryang-dong, Dong-gu

Iconic steep stairs adorned with murals and art installations, offering a glimpse into Busan's history.

Panoramic Viewpoint

Panoramic Viewpoint

Top of the 168 Stairs

A breathtaking viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of Busan's skyline and harbor.

Choryang Chinatown

Choryang Chinatown

Near Busan Station

Vibrant streets filled with authentic Chinese and Korean eateries, a culinary adventure awaits.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Climb (or Ride!)

Choryang Ibagu-gil is a charming hillside village known for its steep stairs and the unique Somang Monorail. While the monorail offers a free, convenient ride for up to 8 passengers, be prepared for potential closures or limited operating hours. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore the '168 Stairs' on foot, as many travelers recommend it for the full experience. Reddit+1

Chinatown Charm & Local Flavors

Located near Busan Station and Chinatown, Choryang Ibagu-gil is a gateway to authentic Korean flavors. Explore traditional restaurants serving delicious pork soup and dumplings, often with no English menus, adding to the local experience. Instagram+1 Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
City lights sparkle
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The cutest monorail in Busan, called Somang Stairs, Stairs of Wishes or 소망계단 경사형모노레일 in Korean 🌈🧚‍♀️ It’s meant for residents first, but anyone can use it and its totally free! The kind locals who operate the monorail will be happy to help and they even gave me great tips for photo spots in the mural village below. This is a must see when you visit Busan 😍 #busan #busanmonorail #busantravel #korea...
@iwanderlista
23.3K likes • 328.6K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

The '168 Stairs' are steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the village. Reddit+1

🚠 Monorail Check

The Somang Monorail is free but can be closed. Check its status before you go! Reddit

hope this helps u prioritise your Busan trip, lmk if you have questions also link in bio for 10% off the Busan Pass (highly recommend) & Spa Land. #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #itinerary #busantravel #busan #koreatravel #travelguide Haeundae Sky capsule, busan air cruise, songdo beach, gwangali beach, haeundae beach, shinsegae spaland, gukje market , oryukdo islands, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, bus...
@brandneweats
14.4K likes • 322.9K views
i think this is going to be a yearly thing now… @choryang_ondang opens at 12pm and you can start taking a queue number from 9.30am (need a korean phone number)! my top 2 favourite flavours are the yellow cheese mammoth bread and tiramisu mammoth bread 🥹💗 the bread tastes amazing when heated up in the oven as compared to eating it cold!
matcha.noms
522 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Art

Discover vibrant murals and art installations along the stairs and alleys. Reddit

🍜 Taste Local Delights

Don't miss the authentic pork soup and dumplings in the nearby Chinatown. Instagram+1

📍 Xin Fa Yuan, Choryang-dong, dong-gu, Since 1951 Near #busanstation . 🍴Silde 1-7 : fried dumpling best 9/10👍🏻, steamed gyoza 8/10, pickled cucumber 8/10, shrimp gyoza 8/10, meats dumpling 8/10, maramandu spicy, bean soup Slide 8: 💰 ➿Slide terakhir : antrian yang terus berdatangan . Untuk dine in di bangunan yg lama, untuk take away di bangunan baru Meski cuma makan per-dumpling-an, tapi kenyang ...
lilobluestitch
439 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

The '168 Stairs' are steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the village. Reddit+1

🚠 Monorail Check

The Somang Monorail is free but can be closed. Check its status before you go! Reddit

📸 Capture the Art

Discover vibrant murals and art installations along the stairs and alleys. Reddit

🍜 Taste Local Delights

Don't miss the authentic pork soup and dumplings in the nearby Chinatown. Instagram+1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water, especially if you plan to walk the entire length of the stairs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(944 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Choryang Ibagu-gil a charming and historically rich area, particularly appreciating the free Somang Monorail and the panoramic city views. While some sections may be undergoing construction, the vibrant murals and the authentic culinary experiences in the nearby Chinatown are consistently praised. The steepness of the '168 Stairs' is a notable aspect, requiring comfortable footwear for exploration.

"This is an interesting place to learn more about how Busan has developed and how it was in the past. The funicular is fun to ride and the views from the top are fantastic! It is free, and the funicular is accessible as you can get an elevator/ lift to the entrance of the funicular. At the top there is a ramp to exit."

Fern Gleeson

"Maybe some time ago the "168 stairs" was a nice place to visit, but now it is rundown and full of construction and trash. The monorail is closed with no indication that it will be reopening again anytime soon. There is no longer anything interesting about the stairs themselves now apart from being narrow and steep - the flowers that used to line the stairs have been removed due to construction. There are still a couplen of nice street art murals and installations, and also a cafe and panoramic deck, but at the moment these are mostly hidden behind construction canvas, tapes and boards (as of September 2024). Would not recommend at this time unless you have nothing else to do while waiting for your train - this is within walking distance from Busan Station and takes you through Chinatown."

Lynn Tan

"Worth to walk up to the sky! The stairs are cute, along the way full of picture soot😊 a cafe next to the end point so you may take a seat if want to , enjoy!

Tip: monorail has been stopped so only by walk! Wear comfort shoes and bring water 🙂"

Cherrier ToTravel

What People Like

Free Somang Monorail
Panoramic city views
Vibrant murals and art

What People Dislike

Stairs can be steep
Occasional construction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Choryang Ibagu-gil is conveniently located near Busan Station, making it easily accessible. You can walk to the base of the '168 Stairs' or the Somang Monorail in about 10-15 minutes. It's also a great starting point for exploring the adjacent Chinatown. InstagramReddit

Yes, besides walking from Busan Station, you can also take a local bus. Several bus routes stop near the Choryang-dong area. It's advisable to use a navigation app for the most up-to-date bus information and routes. Reddit

Driving directly to the heart of Choryang Ibagu-gil can be challenging due to narrow alleys and limited parking. It's generally recommended to park near Busan Station or in a public parking lot and explore on foot or via public transport. Reddit

You have two main options: walk up the '168 Stairs' or take the free Somang Monorail. The monorail is a unique experience and a good option if you want to save energy, but it has a limited capacity and can sometimes be closed. Reddit+1

The Somang Monorail offers elevator access to its entrance and a ramp for exiting at the top, making it somewhat accessible. However, the '168 Stairs' themselves are very steep and not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Choryang Ibagu-gil and the '168 Stairs' is completely free. The Somang Monorail is also free to use, though it has a limited capacity per trip. TikTokReddit

The operating hours for the Somang Monorail can vary and it may be subject to closure without prior notice. It's best to check locally or look for recent traveler updates, as it's primarily for residents but open to visitors. TikTokReddit

The viewpoints at the top of Choryang Ibagu-gil are free to access. Enjoy the panoramic views of Busan without any additional cost. Reddit

While the area is generally accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the murals and the views. The Somang Monorail has specific operating hours. Reddit

To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends and late afternoons can get busier, especially with locals and tourists enjoying the views and the monorail. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The '168 Stairs' themselves, with their colorful murals and art installations, are prime photo opportunities. The panoramic viewpoint at the top offers stunning shots of the Busan skyline and harbor. The Somang Monorail also makes for unique photos. TikTokReddit

Yes, the viewpoint at the top of Choryang Ibagu-gil provides a beautiful vantage point for sunset photos over the city and the sea. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos inside the Somang Monorail. It's a unique experience, and capturing the ride itself can make for interesting shots. Be mindful of other passengers. TikTok

Generally, there are no strict restrictions on photography in public areas of Choryang Ibagu-gil. However, always be respectful of residents and their private property. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive city views, while a zoom lens can help focus on details in the murals. TikTok

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

While the village itself has a few cafes, the surrounding Choryang-dong area, especially Chinatown, is famous for its authentic Chinese and Korean cuisine. Look for delicious pork soup and dumplings. Instagram+1

There are a few cafes located along the '168 Stairs' and at the top, offering drinks and light snacks. For a wider variety of dining options, it's best to explore the streets at the bottom of the hill or in nearby Chinatown. Reddit+1

English menus can be scarce in the more traditional eateries, especially in Chinatown. Be prepared for a bit of a culinary adventure and perhaps use a translation app or point to what looks good! Instagram

Locals rave about the 'Grandma's Pork Soup' and various types of dumplings, including fried and steamed varieties. Instagram+1

Vegetarian and vegan options might be limited in traditional Korean and Chinese restaurants. It's advisable to inquire directly at the restaurants or look for cafes that might offer more diverse menus. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Choryang Ibagu-gil can be an engaging experience for families, especially with the Somang Monorail offering a fun, short ride. The colorful murals along the '168 Stairs' can capture children's imaginations, turning the climb into a treasure hunt for art. However, parents should be aware that the stairs are very steep, so keeping a close eye on younger children is crucial. TikTokReddit

Consider using the monorail to ascend and then walking down the stairs to manage energy levels. The panoramic viewpoint at the top provides a great spot for family photos with a stunning backdrop. For food, the nearby Chinatown offers a variety of options, though finding kid-friendly menus might require some exploration. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Choryang Ibagu-gil is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking for authentic experiences and great photo opportunities. The Somang Monorail offers a unique, free ride, and the locals operating it are often friendly and helpful, providing a welcoming interaction. TikTok

Exploring the '168 Stairs' at your own pace allows for deep immersion in the art and history of the village. The panoramic viewpoint is perfect for quiet contemplation and capturing memorable solo shots. Don't hesitate to try the local eateries in Chinatown; even without a shared language, the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere are universally enjoyable. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Choryang Ibagu-gil is a dream. The '168 Stairs' are a canvas of vibrant murals and street art, offering endless compositions. The Somang Monorail itself provides a unique photographic subject, especially with the city sprawling below. TikTokReddit

The panoramic viewpoint at the summit is ideal for capturing sweeping cityscapes, especially during the golden hour or at dusk when the city lights begin to twinkle. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the unique blend of urban landscape and artistic expression that defines this charming Busan hillside. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Development of Choryang Ibagu-gil

Choryang Ibagu-gil, often referred to as the '168 Stairs' or 'Stairs of Wishes,' is more than just a picturesque hillside village; it's a living testament to Busan's post-war development and resilience. Originally a settlement for refugees and immigrants, the steep terrain necessitated the creation of numerous stairways and later, the iconic Somang Monorail, to connect residents to essential services. The area's transformation into a cultural village, with vibrant murals and art installations, reflects a community effort to revitalize its heritage and attract visitors. Reddit

Exploring Choryang Ibagu-gil offers a unique perspective on urban planning and community spirit. The '168 Stairs' themselves are a symbol of the daily lives of its inhabitants, representing both the challenges and the enduring strength of the people who have called this hillside home. The integration of art into the public spaces not only beautifies the area but also tells stories of its past and present, making it a compelling destination for those interested in social history and urban regeneration. Reddit

While some areas might be undergoing construction or maintenance, as noted by recent visitors, the essence of Choryang Ibagu-gil remains. It's a place where history is etched into the landscape, and the simple act of climbing stairs or riding a monorail becomes an immersive cultural experience. The nearby Chinatown further enriches the narrative, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped this dynamic district of Busan. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Somang Monorail and '168 Stairs'

The Somang Monorail, also known as the 'Stairs of Wishes' monorail, is a unique and free mode of transport in Choryang Ibagu-gil. Designed to assist residents, it can carry up to eight passengers at a time, offering a convenient and scenic ride up the steep hillside. Travelers often praise its charm and the helpfulness of the local operators. However, it's important to note that the monorail is not always operational and can be closed for maintenance or other reasons, so it's wise to have a backup plan. TikTokReddit

For those who prefer to explore on foot or if the monorail is unavailable, the '168 Stairs' present a more physically demanding but equally rewarding experience. These steep steps are adorned with colorful murals, art installations, and historical displays, turning the climb into an engaging journey. Wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended, and bringing water is a good idea, especially during warmer months. The stairs offer numerous photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the intricate details of the village's artistic transformation. Reddit+1

Combining the monorail ride with a walk up or down the stairs provides a comprehensive experience of Choryang Ibagu-gil. Whether you choose to ascend via the charming monorail or conquer the stairs, the destination at the top offers a rewarding panoramic view of Busan. Remember that the experience can be enhanced by visiting during off-peak hours to fully soak in the atmosphere and capture memorable photos without the hustle and bustle. TikTokReddit

Culinary Delights in Choryang-dong

Choryang-dong, particularly its Chinatown, is a culinary hotspot near Choryang Ibagu-gil, offering a rich tapestry of flavors. Visitors often seek out traditional Korean dishes, with 'Grandma's Pork Soup' being a highly recommended specialty. This hearty, slow-cooked broth is a favorite among locals and offers an authentic taste of Busan. The experience of dining in these traditional establishments, often with no English menus, adds to the immersive cultural journey. Instagram

Beyond pork soup, the area is renowned for its dumplings. From crispy fried varieties to delicate steamed gyoza, there's a wide selection to satisfy any craving. Instagram reels showcase the variety and deliciousness of these offerings, with many travelers highlighting them as a must-try. Exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown allows you to discover hidden gems and savor authentic Chinese-Korean fusion cuisine. Instagram+1

While Choryang Ibagu-gil itself has a few charming cafes offering refreshments and light snacks with scenic views, the true gastronomic adventure lies in the surrounding neighborhoods. For those looking for a more extensive dining experience, venturing into Chinatown or the streets at the base of the hill will provide a plethora of options, from casual eateries to more established restaurants. InstagramReddit

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