Certainly! Navigating Busan's public transportation system is straightforward, offering various options to suit your travel needs. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you get around the city:
1. Metro (Subway):
Busan's metro system consists of four lines, each identified by distinct colors:
- Line 1 (Orange Line): Operates between Dadaepo Beach and Nopo, covering 40.5 km with 40 stations.
- Line 2 (Green Line): Connects Jangsan to Yangsan, spanning 45.2 km with 43 stations.
- Line 3 (Brown Line): Runs from Suyeong to Daejeo over 18.1 km with 17 stations.
- Line 4 (Blue Line): Extends from Minam to Anpyeong, covering 12.7 km with 14 stations.
Operating Hours: The metro operates daily from 5:00 AM to midnight. First and last train times vary by station, so it's advisable to check specific schedules.
Fares:
- Single Ride: ₩1,300 for distances under 10 km (1 section); ₩1,500 for longer distances (2 sections).
- Transportation Cards: Using a T-money or Cashbee card offers discounted fares and can be used across various transport modes.
2. Buses:
Busan's bus network is extensive, comprising several types:
- Blue Buses: Long-distance routes connecting districts.
- Green Buses: Short-distance routes linking neighborhoods to subway stations.
- Orange Buses: Circulatory routes connecting subway stations and neighborhoods.
- Red Buses: Express buses connecting Busan with suburban areas.
Fares: A single ride costs ₩1,200 with a transportation card and ₩1,500 when paying with cash. Transfers between buses and from bus to metro within 30 minutes are free with a transportation card.
3. Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL):
This light rail connects Busan to Gimhae, including a stop at Gimhae International Airport. It operates from Sasang Station in Busan to Kaya University in Gimhae, covering 23.4 km with 21 stations.
Operating Hours: From 5:30 AM to midnight, with trains running every 15-20 minutes.
Fares: ₩1,500 for a single ride. Using a transportation card provides a discounted fare.
4. Taxis:
Taxis are readily available throughout Busan. Fares start at ₩3,500 for the first 2 km, with additional charges for distance and time. It's recommended to have your destination written in Korean to assist drivers who may not speak English.
5. Trams:
Busan is in the process of reintroducing tram lines to enhance public transportation. The planned lines include:
- Line 1 (Oryuk-do Line): A 5.15 km route with 8 stops, expected to open in 2022.
- Line 2 (Gangseo Line): A 21.3 km route with 24 stops, with construction ongoing and expected completion in 2030.
6. Transportation Cards:
For convenience, consider obtaining a T-money or Cashbee card. These rechargeable cards can be used on metros, buses, and even in taxis. They can be purchased and reloaded at convenience stores and vending machines throughout the city.
7. Navigating the System:
Signs and announcements in public transport are typically available in Korean and English, making it easier for non-Korean speakers to navigate. For real-time route planning and updates, apps like Naver Maps are highly recommended.
By familiarizing yourself with these transportation options, you'll find getting around Busan both convenient and efficient.
