About Oryukdo Skywalk
Description
Hovering 40 meters above the crashing waves below, the Oryukdo Skywalk is one of Busan's most thrilling architectural marvels. This horseshoe-shaped glass platform extends 15 meters from the coastline, offering heart-stopping views that'll make your palms sweat - in the best possible way! I'll admit, it took me a few deep breaths before I could step onto the glass floor my first time here.
The skywalk's main draw is its see-through floor that creates the sensation of walking on air while gazing down at the rocky shoreline and swirling waters of the East Sea. But don't worry too much - the 12cm-thick reinforced glass can support the weight of 900 people! From this dramatic viewpoint, you'll get incredible panoramas of Busan's rugged coastline and the famous five islands that make up Oryukdo (which literally means "Five Six Islands" because sometimes five islands are visible, sometimes six, depending on the tide).
Built in 2013, this engineering feat has become one of Busan's must-visit spots, especially for photographers and thrill-seekers. And y'know what? Even if you're a bit nervous about heights like I was, the views are totally worth pushing past those jitters. The surrounding Oryukdo area is pretty spectacular too, with hiking trails and observation points that showcase the dramatic meeting of land and sea.
Key Features
• Glass-floored observation deck extending 15 meters from the cliff • Panoramic views of Oryukdo Islands and Busan coastline • Free admission (yep, you read that right!) • Special protective shoe covers provided to keep the glass floor pristine • Safety railings and reinforced glass construction • Photo zones with stunning backdrop opportunities • Connected walking trails along the coastal cliff • Information panels about local geography and marine life • Night lighting that creates magical evening atmospheres • Wheelchair accessible viewing areasBest Time to Visit
Look, I've been here at different times of day, and I gotta say - timing can make or break your experience. Early morning (right when it opens at 9 AM) is pure magic. The light is soft, the crowds are thin, and you might catch some gorgeous sunrise colors if you're lucky. Plus, the morning tends to have better visibility for spotting all those islands.
Sunset is another killer time to visit, but heads up - everyone else thinks so too! If you're coming during peak season (July-August), expect some waiting time during golden hour. Winter visits can be pretty special though - fewer tourists and those dramatic waves make for some epic photos. Just bundle up cause that sea breeze is no joke!
Try to avoid rainy days or super foggy conditions - the skywalk closes during bad weather, and you won't get those million-dollar views anyway. Mid-week visits tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during Korean holidays.
How to Get There
Getting to the Oryukdo Skywalk isn't complicated, but it does take a bit of planning. From Busan Station, hop on Bus 27 or 131 and ride it till you reach the Oryukdo SK View apartment complex. From there, it's about a 5-minute walk to the skywalk entrance. If you're coming from Haeundae, catch Bus 181 and get off at the same stop.
By subway, take Line 1 to Nampo Station, then transfer to Bus 27. Or if you're feeling fancy, a taxi from central Busan will get you there in about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Just show your driver "오륙도 스카이워크" on your phone - they'll know where to go.
Tips for Visiting
First things first - those shoe covers they give you? Yeah, you gotta wear 'em. They keep the glass floor clean for those perfect shots. Speaking of photos, bright sunny days can create glare on the glass, so overcast weather sometimes makes for better pictures. And if you're anything like me and want that perfect Instagram shot, bring a friend who can lay down on the glass floor to capture you from below!
There's no time limit on the skywalk itself, but during busy periods, staff might encourage people to keep moving. The walkway can get pretty packed around sunset and on weekends, so patience is key. Oh, and here's a pro tip I learned the hard way - hold onto your hat (and anything else that might fly away) cause that coastal wind ain't playing around!
For the best experience, I'd recommend combining your visit with some exploring in the surrounding area. The coastal walking trails offer different perspectives of the islands, and there are some great local seafood restaurants nearby where you can refuel after all that excitement. Just remember to check the weather forecast before heading out - the skywalk closes during rain, high winds, or when visibility is poor.
Last but not least, if you're bringing kids, keep a close eye on them - while the skywalk is totally safe, some little ones might find the height overwhelming at first. And don't forget your camera - trust me, you're gonna want to document this!