Beppu to Gyeongju: A Scenic Drive Across the Korea Strait

Your Beppu-to-Gyeongju road trip begins with a two-hour Beetle ferry crossing from Beppu to Busan, a route operating since 2010 that saves you the hassle of flying. The drive continues on South Korea's excellent highway network, making the total land distance about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Busan to Gyeongju.

Because the journey involves both a sea leg and a land leg, it's more an expedition than a simple drive. Expect to spend at least half a day moving between these two thermal-spring and historic capitals.

If you're wondering how long to drive Beppu to Gyeongju, the driving portion is short; the ferry dominates the timeline. Those asking is it worth driving Beppu to Gyeongju should note that the coastal drive from Busan to Gyeongju offers sweeping views of the Sea of Japan (East Sea) and is a refreshing alternative to the train.

As you leave Busan, the route skirts the Taehwagang River estuary, a wetland teeming with migratory birds. The landscape shifts from urban to pine-forested hills as you approach Gyeongju, the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom.

Gyeongju's historic areas are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring the Bulguksa temple and Seokguram Grotto. Don't miss the Tumuli Park, a cluster of grassy burial mounds dating from the 5th to 7th centuries. For a viewpoint, climb Namsan Mountain, a treasure trove of Buddhist carvings and relics.

Culinary stops: In Busan, try dwaeji gukbap (pork soup rice) at Halmae Gukbap near the port. In Gyeongju, sample hwangnam-ppang, a red bean pastry named after the historic district.

If you crave off-route spots, detour to Oedolgae Rock on Jeju Island – though not on the direct path, it's a spectacular volcanic formation worth the extra ferry ride. Alternatively, stop at Gijang, a quiet fishing village south of Busan, for fresh hoe (raw fish).

For a deeper dive on finding such gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Korean highways are impeccably maintained, with clear signage in Korean and English. Speed limits are 100 km/h on expressways, 60 km/h in urban areas. Emergency call boxes line the highway every 500 meters.

For families, rest areas often feature playgrounds and clean nursing rooms. The Hwangui Rest Area in Gyeongju has a nature trail and kids' activities.

Fatigue management: The drive is short, so fatigue isn't a major concern, but plan a break at the Ulsan Rest Area, roughly halfway, which offers panoramic sea views and coffee.

Pet-friendly stops: Check the official Korean rest area app for designated pet relief zones.

Local commerce: Along the route, you'll pass pottery workshops in Yangdong Village, a folk village that's also a UNESCO site.

The Beetle ferry departs daily from Beppu International Port and arrives at Busan's International Passenger Terminal. Standard car tickets cost around ¥20,000 one-way for a mid-sized sedan; foot passengers pay ~¥9,000. Reservations are essential, especially in summer, and can be made online in English.

Once on Korean soil, you'll take National Route 7 and then the Donghae Expressway (Expressway 65) directly to Gyeongju. Tolls for the entire drive come to roughly 3,200 KRW. The ferry operator allows pets in kennels in the vehicle deck; you must bring your own kennel and health certificate. On the road, Korean rest areas (휴게소) are pet-friendly, with designated walking areas.

• Fuel: As of 2025, gasoline in South Korea averages 1,650 KRW per liter; expect to burn about 8 liters for the 80 km drive.
• Currency exchange: Use ATMs at Busan port; many Korean banks accept foreign cards.
• Driving side: Korea drives on the right, opposite to Japan.