World Travel with Bob: Japan Travel (Part 2)

This post shares content and a few photos from Hiroshima and Busan, South Korea. We were in Hiroshima for two days and had a one day port stop in Busan. We previously visited Hiroshima in 2019 and this was my first time in Busan. We'd like to return to South Korea in the future for a more extended visit, perhaps to Seoul and Jeju Island.

Hiroshima

Our first stop was the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park. During our last visit in 2019, the museum was undergoing extensive renovation and we only saw some of the exhibits. So, we were interested in viewing the exhibits and listen to the audio guide. This museum documents the city life before the bomb and the aftermath on ten of thousands of individuals and families residing in the Hiroshima area during and after the bomb, as well as city structures and infrastructure. The museum presents a powerful statement for the need for peace.

We also visited Hiroshima Castle (rebuilt in 1958) and the nearby Shukkeien Park. The castle was destroyed from the 1945 bomb and the main keep was rebuilt in 1958. The castle contains historical displays and provides a broad view of the city from the fifth floor observation deck.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Shukkeien Park

Hiroshima Castle

Busan, South Korea

One day provides a limited amount of touring possibilities. With this in mind, we included a visit to the hilly Gamcheon Culture Village, a city viewing platform and the downtown Gukje market.

The Gamcheon Culture Village, located about 30 minutes from Busan, was built in the 1920s to relocate working class members away from Busan. It is known for layered streets, winding and twisting alleys and colorful buildings. We were warned that if we explored the village interior we could become lost and have a challenge of finding our way out to the major streets.

After the Korean War, in 1953, Gukje Market was primarily used by refugees to sell imported goods. There are many shops located in this area, selling housewares, clothing, jewelry and cosmetics - as well as tourist items.