Santorini in Busan? It's Gamcheon Culture Village!

Touted as Busan's Santorini, Gamcheon Culture Village 감천문화마을 was formed by Korean War refugees back in 1950. Thanks to the governments effort to beautify and promote the culture village, it has turned into a tourist attraction in Busan with its distinctive, multicolored terraced houses, which is a rare sight in modern days.

Besides resident houses that are still occupied, there are also special 집s (Houses) or rather, mini gallery or exhibition rooms, known as House of Light, House of Darkness, House of Peace, etc. around the village that were established to convey relevant messages to visitors.

Gamne Cafe

Outside the Cafe

There is an observatory at the peak of the village for visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of the village and the harbour nearby. However, visitors are advised not to go up Haneul Maru observatory after 6pm, to respect the resident's privacy and so not to cause disturbance to the residents.

Follow the fishes. The fish mouth points to the direction you should follow.

Located on a hillside which is easily reachable via public bus, Gamcheon Culture Village is a stark contrast from the city view, peaceful and distinctive.

Gamcheon Culture Village is erected on a hillside overlooking a harbour

To get to the peak, just follow the fish arrows and climb up the narrow stones. Best to wear comfortable shoes as the ascending stairs are quite steep.

Besides the picturesque view, another distinctive feature of the village is the narrow alleyway. Generally, the distance from one building to another is just a shoulder-width wide away.

A fresh coat of paint for Tree-of-Hope

The final attraction (if you follow the suggested walking route) at the village is the Little Prince, a character from a French novel of the same name, sitting with his fox friend. 

Gamcheon Culture Village, in the eyes of Little Prince

Is it just me, or do you think it's a little heart-wrenching looking at Little Prince and the fox staring at houses?

To get to Gamcheon Culture Village, take the bus no. 2 or 2-2 from Toseong subway station (Exit 8) and get off at Gamjeong Elementary School (the last stop). The village signage is visible upon alight.

This village is well-worth a visit.

Gamcheon Culture Village
10-13 Gamcheon-2-dong, Saha-gu,
Busan, South Korea