Global Major Cities Guide

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1. Types of Buses in Busan

Busan’s bus system is categorized into several types, each serving different purposes and areas:

Local Buses (시내버스): These are the most common buses, connecting neighborhoods and major areas within Busan.
- Blue Buses (Main Line): Cover long distances and connect major areas and transit hubs.
- Green Buses (Feeder Line): Operate on shorter routes, often connecting residential areas to subway stations or major bus stops.
- Red Buses (Express Line): Provide faster service with fewer stops, often connecting Busan to nearby cities or major destinations.
- Yellow Buses (Circular Line): Operate in specific districts or tourist-heavy areas, often running in loops.
Village Buses (마을버스): Smaller buses that serve local neighborhoods and areas not covered by larger buses. These are ideal for short trips within a specific district.
Airport Limousine Buses: These buses connect Busan’s Gimhae International Airport to various parts of the city, including Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Nampo-dong.
Intercity and Express Buses: These buses connect Busan to other cities in South Korea. They operate from major terminals like Busan Central Bus Terminal and Sasang Bus Terminal.

2. How to Pay for the Bus

There are two main ways to pay for bus rides in Busan:

Cash: You can pay directly in cash when boarding the bus. However, exact change is required as the driver does not provide change.
- Fares: Typically higher than using a transportation card (see below).
Transportation Cards: The most convenient and cost-effective way to pay. The two most commonly used cards are:
- T-money Card: A rechargeable card that can be used on buses, subways, and taxis across South Korea.
- Cashbee Card: Another rechargeable card widely accepted in Busan.
- Cards can be purchased and recharged at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations.
Benefits of Using a Transportation Card:
- Discounted fares compared to cash payments.
- Free transfers between buses and subways within a 30-minute window.

3. Costs

Base Fare (as of 2023):
- Adults: 1,300 KRW (with a transportation card) / 1,500 KRW (cash)
- Teenagers: 900 KRW (card) / 1,200 KRW (cash)
- Children: 400 KRW (card) / 500 KRW (cash)
Transfers: Free transfers are allowed between buses and subways within 30 minutes when using a transportation card.

4. Routes and Schedules

Routes: Busan’s bus routes are extensive and cover all major areas, including tourist attractions, residential neighborhoods, and business districts. Key routes include:
- 1001 (Red Bus): Connects Haeundae Beach to Nampo-dong, passing through Seomyeon.
- 88/1011 (Blue Bus): Runs along the coastal areas, including Gwangalli Beach and Songdo Beach.
- Village Buses: Operate in specific districts like Haeundae or Geumjeong.
Schedules:
- Most buses operate from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though some routes may start earlier or end later.
- Buses generally run every 10–20 minutes, but frequency can vary depending on the route and time of day.
Finding Routes:
- Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (available in English) to find bus routes, schedules, and real-time bus locations.
- Bus stops are clearly marked with route numbers and maps.

5. How to Use the Bus System

Locate the Bus Stop: Bus stops are marked with signs showing the route numbers and destinations. Major stops often have route maps in Korean and English.
Boarding:
- Enter through the front door.
- Tap your transportation card on the reader or pay in cash.
During the Ride:
- Stops are announced in Korean and English, and a display screen shows the next stop.
- Press the stop button near your seat to signal the driver when you want to get off.
Exiting:
- Exit through the rear door.
- If using a transportation card, tap it again on the reader when exiting to ensure proper fare calculation.

6. Cultural Etiquette

Queueing: Form a line at the bus stop and wait for passengers to exit before boarding.
Priority Seating: Seats at the front of the bus are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Avoid using these seats unless necessary.
Quietness: Keep conversations and phone calls quiet to avoid disturbing others.
No Eating or Drinking: It is considered impolite to eat or drink on the bus.
Respect the Driver: Greet the driver with a polite nod or “감사합니다” (thank you) when boarding or exiting.

7. Tips for Tourists

Plan Ahead: Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map to plan your route and check bus arrival times.
Tourist-Friendly Routes: Some buses pass by major attractions, making them ideal for sightseeing:
- Bus 1003 (Red Bus): Connects Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, and Seomyeon.
- Bus 27 (Blue Bus): Stops at Taejongdae, a scenic coastal park.
- Bus 41 (Blue Bus): Passes through Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside neighborhood.
Avoid Rush Hours: Buses can get crowded during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 6:00–8:00 PM).
Language Barrier: While announcements are in English, most drivers speak only Korean. Have your destination written in Korean or use a translation app if needed.

8. Connecting to Major Attractions

Busan’s bus system is well-integrated with its subway system, making it easy to reach popular destinations:

Haeundae Beach: Accessible via buses 1001, 1003, or 39.
Gwangalli Beach: Take buses 41, 42, or 1003.
Gamcheon Culture Village: Use bus 2 or 1-1.
Taejongdae: Reachable via bus 8, 30, or 88.
Jagalchi Market and Nampo-dong: Use buses 15, 17, or 1001.

9. Additional Tips

Night Buses: Busan has limited night bus services, so plan accordingly if traveling late.
Weather Considerations: During rainy or snowy weather, buses may run slower due to traffic.
Tourist Information Centers: Located at major attractions and transit hubs, these centers can provide maps and assistance in English.

By understanding the bus system in Busan, you’ll be able to explore the city efficiently and affordably. Enjoy your time in this vibrant coastal city!