Things To Do
in Ulsan

Ulsan is a vibrant city located on the southeastern coast of South Korea, known for its rich industrial heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. It is home to the world's largest automobile manufacturing plant and also boasts picturesque coastlines along the East Sea. Ulsan features a blend of modern urban life and traditional Korean culture, making it a unique destination for visitors.

The city offers various attractions, including cultural sites, parks, and outdoor activities, ensuring a diverse experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ulsan's Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Visit the Ulsan Museum to learn about the city's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Taehwa River Grand Park, taking a walk along the riverside and enjoying the cherry blossoms in spring.

evening
:

Dine at a local Korean BBQ restaurant and enjoy the delicious grilled meats and side dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike up to the summit of Gajisan Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Head to Jinha Beach to relax or try water sports like paddleboarding.

evening
:

Experience Ulsan's nightlife by visiting a local bar or karaoke room.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee at a café$3
🏨Hotel per night$50
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🍻Beer (local)$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood
  • Limited English signage in some areas
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities like Seoul
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디예요?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is this?
  • "죄송합니다" - Excuse me / I'm sorry

Places to Visit in Ulsan

Visit one of these nice places.

Daewangam Park

A scenic park featuring a coastal walking path, perfect for sunset photography.

Ulsan Bridge

A striking landmark that offers a beautiful view of the river and city skyline.

Jinha Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and clear waters, ideal for capturing coastal landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ulsan

Ulsan is a culinary paradise with a variety of local dishes that highlight the region's flavors and ingredients. From fresh seafood to hearty Korean BBQ, the city's food scene is both vibrant and diverse.

Ulsan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sashimi (회)

Freshly caught fish, served raw and often enjoyed with soy sauce and wasabi.

Must-Try!

Grilled Mackerel (고등어구이)

A popular dish in Ulsan, featuring grilled mackerel seasoned with salt.

Bulgogi (불고기)

Marinated beef grilled over an open flame, known for its sweet and savory flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ulsan Jungang Market

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

Gongjeong Traditional Market

A traditional market famous for its street food, including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ulsan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures averaging around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild and pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Koreans highly value respect for elders; always greet older individuals first.

Removing Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Table Manners

Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ulsan is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Ulsan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash and credit cards, with mobile payment options like KakaoPay becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in parks, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, ideal for beach visits and water activities.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snow; it's a quieter time to explore the city and enjoy indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Ulsan at Night

Ulsan's nightlife is lively and diverse, with options ranging from traditional Korean pubs (pojangmacha) to modern bars and clubs. The city has a vibrant atmosphere, especially in areas like Samsan-dong, where you can find karaoke rooms, dance clubs, and cafes that stay open late. Local beer and soju are popular choices, and many establishments offer a variety of entertainment options, including live music and performances.

Hiking in Ulsan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gajisan Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Bongnaesan Mountain

This trail is known for its scenic views and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Airports

How to reach Ulsan by plane.

Ulsan Airport (USN)

Located just 10 km from the city center, Ulsan Airport offers domestic flights and a few international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ulsan is relatively walkable, especially in central areas like the Ulsan Grand Park and downtown districts. Sidewalks are generally wide, and pedestrian crossings are available at most intersections. However, some areas may require public transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Ulsan is home to many young professionals working in the city's industrial sectors, including automotive and shipbuilding.

Students

The city has several universities and colleges, attracting a diverse student population from various regions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Ulsan, with the Ulsan Hyundai FC being one of the top teams in the K-League.

Baseball

Baseball attracts a large following in Ulsan, with local teams playing in the Korean Baseball Organization.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ulsan can vary, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes leading to congestion. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a subway line, making it easy to navigate without a car. Taxis are also readily available and reasonably priced.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulsan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While Korean cuisine is meat-heavy, there are vegetarian options available, especially in larger cities like Ulsan.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, dishes like grilled meats and certain vegetable dishes can be suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ulsan has a comprehensive healthcare system, with multiple hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be accessed easily, and many healthcare providers offer services in English. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that includes health coverage.

Discover South Korea

Read more in our South Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

South Korea Travel Guide