A thriving university town in South Korea, Daegu is home to hundreds of trendy pubs, cafes and music clubs in addition to prestigious museums, temples and lush cultivated gardens. Shopping opportunities range from colourful street markets to antiques, boutiques and everything in-between. A unique feature of Daegu is its enduring reputation as a hub of traditional, herbal and Oriental medicine centred in Daegu Yangnyeongsi Market.
Things to do in Daegu
Many visitors come to Daegu for its collection of centuries-old sacred Buddhist sites, including Donghwa Temple and the Unification Medicine Buddha statue. About 20 kilometres from Daegu, Palgongsan Mountain harbours countless Buddhist relics, rock carvings and structures. Daegu can also serve as a home base for launching journeys to Haeinsa and Jikjisa Temples, both within about 60 kilometres.
Indigenous artefacts are prominently featured at cultural institutions such as Daegu National Museum, home to Confucian manuscripts, woven textiles, weapons and jewellery. Daegu Art Museum adds a more modern twist to Korean culture with multimedia presentations and installation art.
To explore Daegu’s world of fashion, head over to the Yasigolmok shopping district. Make sure to save some time for experiencing Seomun Market, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty in the 1600s. About 4,000 small shops and stalls offer goods such as customised textiles, clothing, silks and intricately embroidered fabrics.
Street food permeates Daegu’s market, so get ready to graze on local favourites such as kalguksu noodle soup and flat dumplings. You can relax afterwards at Cafe Alley, overflowing with espresso bars and art-filled tasting cafes.
Getting around Daegu
The subway system in Daegu is extensive, with multiple lines connecting to stations across the city, as well as to the major train stations. If you want to hit the main historical and cultural sites, hop aboard a City Tour Bus, which begins at Dongdaegu Train Station.