Located on the coastal hills of Busan, Gamcheon Culture Village is a true explosion of colors and creativity. As soon as you get off the bus, an amazing view greets you: cube-shaped houses in every color imaginable, clinging to the hillside.
It feels like being transported to another world, almost like an artist’s village with its splashes of color and creative touches scattered everywhere.
Arrival and first impressions
To avoid wearing yourself out right from the start, I recommend taking the bus up to the village. Upon stepping off the bus, you’re faced with a breathtaking panorama: the colorful houses stretch as far as the eye can see, all the way to the sea. In a way, it reminded me of some cities in Latin America, like those I’ve seen in Bolivia or Chile.
The charm is immediate, a blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary.
A walk through art and history
As you venture into the narrow alleys of Gamcheon, you’ll discover much more than tourist shops. Once a refugee ghetto during the Korean War, the village was transformed into an artistic hub in 2009 through a revitalization project by local and international artists. Today, the walls are adorned with colorful murals and original sculptures. Every corner holds an artistic surprise.
What makes Gamcheon truly special is the opportunity to lose yourself in its winding alleys. By wandering off the beaten path, I discovered hidden corners of the village that aren’t on the tourist maps.
Beyond the tourist attraction, this is a real neighborhood where people live. You’ll notice clothes hanging on lines in front of windows, garbage bins at every corner, water tanks on the rooftops, and elderly women you meet along the way. I even stumbled upon a small garden, proof of the everyday life unfolding in this unique village.
Must-see attractions
While strolling around, don’t miss the various viewpoints scattered throughout. Platforms offer magnificent panoramas of the village and the sea. Every corner reveals a new perspective, making each walk unique.
One of the most popular attractions is undoubtedly the statue of The Little Prince and his fox, perched on a wall with a stunning view of the village. This statue attracts many tourists, willing to queue for a souvenir photo. The Little Prince is omnipresent in the village, with murals and sculptures adding a poetic touch to the whole.
Indeed, The Little Prince, written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, is a universal symbol of creativity, simplicity, and reflection on the important things in life. In Gamcheon, the presence of The Little Prince reflects the artistic and communal spirit of the village. He’s there to remind visitors to see the beauty in small things and to keep their imagination alive. The Little Prince and his fox have become emblems of unity and peace, values that resonate deeply with Gamcheon’s history as a refuge for people displaced by war.
Practical tips
To get to Gamcheon, take bus 87 from Busan station. It will drop you at the foot of the village, but you’ll need to walk a bit to reach the main entrance. If you prefer to avoid the climb, opt for bus 17 to Chungmudong Gyocharo, then change to Seogu 2 bus. This option is ideal if you’re traveling with someone who has difficulty walking.
Once there, let yourself be carried away by the village’s atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to lose yourself in the alleys to discover hidden artworks and breathtaking views. The stairs can be steep, but each effort is rewarded by the beauty of the place.
Gamcheon Culture Village is a must-see during a stay in Busan. Whether you’re an art lover, photographer, or simply curious, you’ll find joy in this maze of colors and creativity.
Exploring Gamcheon, you discover not just a place but also a rich and moving history, that of its inhabitants who have transformed their village into a true open-air museum.
