After our wonderful stop at the Haedong Yonggung Temple in Busan, we visited several other locations. While traveling through the central area of the city, it is easy to see that this is a major metropolitan area with very modern buildings.
The pictures above show the area where our tour bus parked while we walked to the APEC building.
Perhaps the one feature that will stand out as one approaches the Nurimaru APEC House is a lighthouse overlooking the bay.
NOTE: In 2005 an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit was held in Busan, South Korea. There were attendees from 21 Pacific Rim nations, the United States and Chile. The Nurimaru APEC House had been constructed specifically for the occasion. [ see source ]
Near the entrance of the APEC House is a beautiful tapestry.
There is also a tile mural showing the profile of the modern architecture.
The conference room had place names for all the attending countries. The seat for the United States is visible in the center.
The location on Dongbaekseom Island is very picturesque.
The tall buildings of Downtown Busan can be viewed from the APEC building grounds.
After the APEC building visit, we had a brief stop at one of the major hotels near Busan’s Haeundae Beach. This was a very welcome rest and allowed guests to check their email using the Wi-Fi in the lobby. (A tactic we used on a number of occasions at different ports of call.)
The beach was not too crowded as it was still early in the day and it was overcast.
Following this break, we headed for the International Market district.
The grasshopper relief along the side of this building was eye-catching.
The crowded, narrow side streets offered a contrasting view of downtown.
Street vendors surrounded the Jagalchi Fish Market.
Crabs…
and scallops…
and squid…
all alive – Oh My!
It was interesting to see that the fish stands relied on umbrellas and running water to freshen the ocean’s bounty.
Of course, a selection could be cleaned and sliced for the customer.
Back on board ship, we were given a friendly musical send off to help bid Busan farewell.
