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Ulsan

South Korea · Coast · KRW · 35.538400, 129.311400
Family friendly 7.4/10 · Rank 429 of 2 709
Best season: April-June, September-October

Best for

Ulsan is an ideal place for those who want to see an industrial Korean city with natural attractions. It is recommended for nature, whaling history lovers and those seeking an alternative to Busan. Suitable for families and solo travellers. Least suitable for vibrant nightlife lovers.

Best season

April-June, September-October

Daily budget
$86.00 (≈ 7 217 ₽ · ≈ 114 380 KRW)
For 7 days
$602.00 (≈ 50 520 ₽ · ≈ 800 660 KRW)
Ulsan is a major industrial city on the southeastern coast, known as the automotive and shipbuilding capital of Korea. The city also offers scenic beaches and proximity to national parks, making it interesting for those who enjoy a combination of industrial tourism and nature. It is a unique place to experience Korea's modern industry.
Summer
30.0°C
Winter
-2.0°C
Sea
24.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Ulsan residents are hardworking and friendly people, accustomed to an industrial rhythm. The atmosphere in the city is calm and local.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Proximity to Busan and Gyeongju
  • Natural attractions (Taehwagang Park, Daewangam)
  • Fewer tourists
  • Affordable prices
  • Unique whaling culture
  • Good beaches

Cons

  • Industrial city
  • Limited nightlife
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
  • Rainy season in July-August
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
26.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
30.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
0.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
5.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
-2.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
24.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
24.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
July-August
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Ilsan Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Ulsan is a safe industrial city. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Several species of sea urchins inhabit the Sea of Japan near Ulsan, particularly Strongylocentrotus nudus and Strongylocentrotus intermedius. They are found on rocky bottoms and cliffs, often in algae thickets.
  • For swimmers, urchins pose a risk on contact — their spines can cause painful punctures, so protective footwear is recommended when swimming in rocky areas.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Temperate coral formations, including soft corals, are found in the Sea of Japan off Ulsan. They inhabit rocky bottoms and cliffs, creating colourful underwater landscapes.
  • The corals in this region are an important part of the ecosystem and attract many species of fish and invertebrates.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Sharks are displayed at the Uljin Aquarium, showcasing species from the East Sea (Sea of Japan)
  • Several shark species are found in Korean waters, usually not dangerous to humans
Attractions

Taehwagang National Garden

A national garden along the Taehwa River with a bamboo forest, flower gardens and walking trails.

Daewangam Park

A scenic coastal park with sea cliffs, pines and a lighthouse. A popular walking spot.

Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Village

A historic area dedicated to whaling. Museums, sculptures and sea views.

Bamboo Forest

A scenic bamboo forest along the Taehwa River. An ideal spot for walks.

Ilsan Beach

An urban beach with golden sand. A popular family spot.

Yeongnam Alps

A mountain range with hiking trails and panoramic views. A great spot for trekking.

Best areas

Samsan-dong (Nam-gu)

The main business and tourist area with hotels, restaurants and transport.

Jangsaengpo Area

A historic area with museums and sea views.

Must-try food

Whale meat

Ulsan has a tradition of eating whale meat, served in restaurants in the Jangsaengpo area.

Hoe (Korean sashimi)

Fresh raw fish sliced into thin pieces.

Galbi

Marinated pork or beef ribs grilled.

Kimchi

Fermented vegetables.

Where to go next

Busan

A large city with beaches and nightlife. 20-40 minutes by train.

Gyeongju

An ancient capital with temples and tombs. 30 minutes by train.

Daegu

A large city with markets and culture. 1 hour by train.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Аэропорт Ульсан (USN).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free (K-ETA up to 90 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
April-June, September-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 33 250 KRW
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 66 500 KRW
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$85.00
≈ 7 133 ₽ · ≈ 113 050 KRW
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$140.00
≈ 11 749 ₽ · ≈ 186 200 KRW
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 159 600 KRW
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 93 100 KRW
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 11 970 KRW
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽ · ≈ 29 260 KRW
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 4 655 KRW
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 5 985 KRW
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 1 064 KRW
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 6 650 KRW
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 39 900 KRW
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 2 660 KRW
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 10 640 KRW
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 66 500 KRW
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 26 600 KRW
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 53 200 KRW
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 93 100 KRW
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 66 500 KRW
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 19 950 KRW
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Frequently asked questions
Ulsan: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Ulsan: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Ulsan: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-2.0°C, during the day — up to +5.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Ulsan: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +24.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Ulsan: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on July-August. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Ulsan: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Ilsan Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Ulsan: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Ulsan: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Ulsan is a safe industrial city. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Ulsan: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $86.00 (≈ 7 217 ₽ · ≈ 114 380 KRW) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Ulsan: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $25.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $85.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $140.00 per night, an apartment — $70.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Ulsan: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $9.00, dinner at a restaurant — $22.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Ulsan: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $30.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Ulsan: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Taehwagang National Garden — A national garden along the Taehwa River with a bamboo forest, flower gardens and walking trails.; Daewangam Park — A scenic coastal park with sea cliffs, pines and a lighthouse. A popular walking spot.; Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Village — A historic area dedicated to whaling. Museums, sculptures and sea views.; Bamboo Forest — A scenic bamboo forest along the Taehwa River. An ideal spot for walks.; Ilsan Beach — An urban beach with golden sand. A popular family spot.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Ulsan: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Whale meat — Ulsan has a tradition of eating whale meat, served in restaurants in the Jangsaengpo area.; Hoe (Korean sashimi) — Fresh raw fish sliced into thin pieces.; Galbi — Marinated pork or beef ribs grilled.; Kimchi — Fermented vegetables.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Ulsan: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Samsan-dong (Nam-gu) — The main business and tourist area with hotels, restaurants and transport.; Jangsaengpo Area — A historic area with museums and sea views.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Ulsan: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free (K-ETA up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Ulsan: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Ульсан (code USN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $30.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Ulsan: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KRW. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $86.00 (≈ 7 217 ₽ · ≈ 114 380 KRW). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Ulsan: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Ulsan: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Ulsan: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Busan — A large city with beaches and nightlife. 20-40 minutes by train.; Gyeongju — An ancient capital with temples and tombs. 30 minutes by train.; Daegu — A large city with markets and culture. 1 hour by train.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.4/10
Overall rank: 429 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 297