Things To Do
in Kimhae

Kimhae, located in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The city is home to the ancient tombs of the Gaya Confederacy, showcasing its historical importance. Additionally, Kimhae is famous for its beautiful parks and vibrant shopping districts.

With a blend of modernity and tradition, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into Korean culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History
morning
:

Visit the Kimhae National Museum to learn about the history and artifacts of the Gaya Confederacy.

afternoon
:

Explore the tombs of the Gaya Confederacy in Daeseong-dong, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

evening
:

Enjoy a stroll at the Kimhae Lotte Mall, followed by dinner at a local barbecue restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike at the nearby Jangyu Mountain, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Kimhae City Rose Park, where you can relax amidst stunning floral displays.

evening
:

Experience traditional Korean culture at a local performance or festival, if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$7
🍺Beer at a Bar$4
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$1
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine and street food.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent late at night.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "죄송합니다" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is this?
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Kimhae

Visit one of these nice places.

Kimhae Castle

The remnants of an ancient fortress offer stunning views and historical architecture.

Daeseongdong Ancient Tombs

These tombs provide picturesque scenery and a glimpse into Korea's past.

Kimhae City Rose Park

A beautiful park filled with colorful roses, perfect for capturing vibrant floral photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kimhae

Kimhae offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Korean cuisine. With a range of local dishes and vibrant street food options, visitors can indulge in the rich tastes of the region.

Kimhae Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sundae

A popular Korean dish made of blood sausage, often served with a side of spicy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Kimhae-style Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish featuring seasonal vegetables, meats, and a spicy gochujang sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kimhae Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls.

Gukje Market

Famous for its vibrant street food options, including tteokbokki and hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kimhae experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, providing comfortable weather ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Using polite language and gestures, such as bowing, is important in Korean culture.

Respecting Elders

Always show respect to elders, such as giving up your seat or addressing them formally.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start the meal before you begin eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kimhae is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and it's important to have a basic understanding of local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Kimhae

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding off the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are very popular; cash is also available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, but it's also a time for festivals and outdoor markets.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall, offering a serene atmosphere for winter activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kimhae at Night

Kimhae's nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of options ranging from traditional Korean pubs (hof) to modern bars and nightclubs. The city offers live music venues, karaoke rooms, and late-night eateries, making it a great place to experience Korean culture after dark. Popular areas for nightlife include the downtown area, where you can find many establishments catering to both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Kimhae

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jangyu Mountain Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike with scenic views of the surrounding area, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Geumjeongsan Mountain

Located a bit further away, this mountain features challenging trails and beautiful vistas, ideal for avid hikers.

Airports

How to reach Kimhae by plane.

Gimhae International Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Kimhae, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kimhae is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require using public transport or taxis for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of the population consists of students, attending various universities and colleges in the area.

Elderly Residents

Kimhae has a growing elderly population, with many retirees enjoying the city's parks and cultural activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Kimhae, with local teams drawing large crowds during the season.

Taekwondo

As a traditional Korean martial art, Taekwondo is widely practiced in Kimhae, with numerous dojos available for training.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kimhae can be busy during rush hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation is efficient, with buses and subways connecting various parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing services can be used for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kimhae.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many Korean dishes can be customized to exclude meat, but it's advisable to check for fish sauce.

Gluten-Free Options

Korean cuisine includes rice and vegetables, but cross-contamination can occur, so inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kimhae is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Major hospitals offer services in English, and pharmacies are widely available. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and understand the local healthcare system for emergencies.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide