Things To Do
in Ulsan

Ulsan, located in the southeast of South Korea, is known for its combination of industrial prowess and natural beauty. It is home to the world's largest automobile manufacturing plant and is surrounded by stunning coastlines and mountains. The city boasts rich cultural heritage sites, such as the ancient temple of Donghae, alongside modern attractions like the Ulsan Grand Park.

Ulsan offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor activities, making it an exciting destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Ulsan Grand Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst beautiful gardens and ponds.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ulsan Museum to learn about the city's history and cultural heritage, followed by lunch at a nearby local restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude your day at the scenic Daewangam Park, where you can enjoy a sunset view over the sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Jangsaengpo Whale Museum to discover Ulsan's whaling history and explore interactive exhibits.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at a local eatery, then take a trip to the beautiful Ganjeolgot Cape, famous for its sunrise views.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a seafood restaurant along the coast, sampling fresh local catches.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$6
Coffee at a café$3
🚇Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$40
🍺Beer at a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and modern attractions.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Limited English signage can be challenging for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less extensive compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "도와 주세요" - Please help me
  • "가격이 얼마예요?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Ulsan

Visit one of these nice places.

Daewangam Park

Famous for its stunning coastal views, this park features a beautiful lighthouse, making it a perfect spot for sunset photography.

Ganjeolgot Cape

Known for its picturesque sunrise views, this cape is a great location for breathtaking landscape photography.

Ulsan Grand Park

The largest urban park in Korea, offering beautifully landscaped gardens, lakes, and walking paths ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ulsan

Ulsan offers a vibrant culinary scene with its unique local dishes and flavors, deeply rooted in Korean tradition.

Ulsan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sundae

A type of Korean sausage made from pig's intestines stuffed with sweet potato noodles, blood, and various spices.

Must-Try!

Gukbap

A hearty soup with rice, often made with beef or seafood, perfect for cold days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ulsan Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ulsan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F), and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always address older individuals with proper titles and show respect in conversation.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain traditional accommodations.

Polite Greetings

A respectful bow or a light handshake is customary when greeting someone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ulsan is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take usual precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Familiarizing yourself with local emergency numbers can also enhance safety.

Tipping in Ulsan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment apps are popular among locals for cashless transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, ideal for beach activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snow; it's a quieter time to explore the city's cultural sites.

Nightlife Guide

Ulsan at Night

Ulsan boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and karaoke rooms. The downtown area is bustling with options for both locals and tourists. Popular areas include the Dong-gu district, where you can find trendy pubs and late-night eateries. For a unique experience, try visiting a traditional Korean 'hof', where you can enjoy drinks and snacks in a cozy atmosphere.

Hiking in Ulsan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Naejangsan National Park

A beautiful park known for its stunning autumn foliage and well-marked trails for hikers of all levels.

Seoknamsa Temple Trail

A scenic trail leading to the historic Seoknamsa Temple, offering a mix of nature and culture.

Airports

How to reach Ulsan by plane.

Ulsan Airport

Located just 8 km from the city center, Ulsan Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ulsan has a moderately walkable downtown area, with most attractions, restaurants, and parks accessible on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some areas may require public transportation or taxis to reach, especially if venturing further afield.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Ulsan has a significant population of young professionals working in the industrial sector, particularly in automotive and shipbuilding.

Students

The city is home to several universities and colleges, attracting a diverse student population from across the country.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Ulsan, with the Ulsan Hyundai FC being the city's professional team, playing in the K League.

Baseball

Baseball enjoys a passionate following in Ulsan, with local teams competing in the Korean Baseball Organization.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ulsan can be congested during peak hours, especially in the downtown area. Public transportation options include buses and a subway system, which are efficient and affordable. Taxis are also readily available, but it’s advisable to check traffic conditions before travel during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulsan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many Korean dishes contain meat, but there are vegetarian options available, such as bibimbap without meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ulsan has a well-developed healthcare system, with multiple hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Many healthcare professionals speak English, and emergency services can be reached quickly. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide