Busan might be famous for its beaches and bustling port, but it’s also a surprisingly good place for wine and rice wine tours. While South Korea isn’t globally renowned for its wine, Busan offers some authentic experiences that give you a taste of local culture and tradition. Our favorites include hiking with local guides, exploring quiet mountain villages, and even making your own makgeolli — Korea’s traditional rice wine. These tours are perfect if you want to combine outdoor adventure with a deep dive into Korea’s drinking customs. Plus, the reviews from travelers show that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their local secrets. Whether you’re after scenic views, cultural insights, or hands-on fun, Busan’s wine tours won’t disappoint.
If you’re looking for an active day out, the hiking tours are top choices, offering a mix of exercise and tasting. For those interested in authentic, less touristy spots, the hidden village tour uncovers quiet mountain enclaves and local eateries. And if you’re curious about brewing, the makgeolli-making class provides a rare opportunity to craft and taste your own rice wine. Each experience offers something unique, whether it’s stunning scenery, cultural stories, or a chance to learn a new skill.
1. 4-Hours Hiking and Tasting Rice Wine in the Mountain of Busan
At number 1 on our list, this 4.5-hour adventure combines a scenic mountain hike with a taste of traditional Korean rice wine, Makgeolli. The tour begins with a walk up Busan’s highest mountain, giving you sweeping views of the city and coastline. This isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s an active exploration of Korea’s natural landscape, guided by a local who shares insights about the area’s history and culture. The hike is moderate, so good footwear is recommended, but the payoff is worth it.
After reaching the summit, the group visits a traditional street food stall called Pocha, where you can sample local dishes paired with Makgeolli, Korea’s milky rice wine. Travelers consistently praise this tour for its relaxed pace, friendly guide, and authentic atmosphere. Reviewers mention how the guide, HugYou, is both knowledgeable and personable, making it easier to connect with local customs. One said, “Making sure everyone is okay and sharing local stories — it’s a real taste of Korean life.” The tour is well worth the $48, especially for those who want a mix of outdoor activity and culture.
Bottom line: If you enjoy hiking and authentic local food, this tour delivers an engaging experience with stunning views and delicious Makgeolli.
2. Busan: Hiking and Tasting Rice wine in the Hidden Village
Number 2 features a hiking adventure through a secluded mountain village, offering a more intimate look at rural Korea. Starting from Oncheonjang Station, you’ll take a short bus ride to Geumjeongsan, where your guided trek lasts about 2.5 hours. This tour emphasizes discovering spots that only locals frequent, avoiding the more tourist-oriented trails. The hike is a good mix of challenge and reward, with some steep sections but spectacular vistas at the top.
The highlight is visiting a quiet mountain village where the guide introduces you to traditional banchan (side dishes) and Makgeolli as part of a filling lunch. This is a genuine look at rural Korean life, away from busier tourist zones. Reviewers love that HugYou makes the experience both fun and educational, with many saying, “Seeing the view from the top was so worth the tough climb, and the lunch afterward was delicious.” The total cost is $49, which includes the hike, food, and wine tasting, making it good value for those who enjoy outdoor exploration with cultural depth.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to explore lesser-known locations and enjoy a hearty mountain lunch paired with local rice wine.
3. Make your own Makgeolli (Rice Wine) in Busan
Number 3 offers a hands-on experience that’s ideal for anyone interested in Korean culture, fermentation, or just learning how to brew their own rice wine. This 1.5-hour class is held in a professional brewery run by a brewer who studied in the US and trained under Korean master brewers. No prior experience is needed — just a curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy.
During the class, you’ll learn about the history and traditions behind Makgeolli, then get to make your own batch using traditional methods and ingredients. The host, Michelle, is friendly and knowledgeable, making the process accessible and fun. Travelers rave about the experience, with one reviewer saying, “It’s a fun class, and I learned so much about Korean alcohol. Tasting different types afterward was a bonus.” You get to take home your homemade Makgeolli, which is a delightful souvenir of your trip.
Priced at around $35, this class is a great value for a memorable, culturally rich activity. It’s especially suitable for foodies or craft enthusiasts who want a unique, interactive experience.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in fermentation or want a memorable craft activity, this Makgeolli-making class offers a rewarding hands-on experience.
How to Choose the Right Busan Wine Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and physical ability. If you love outdoor adventures, the mountain hikes are ideal, especially the hiking and tasting tour, which combines exercise with the chance to try local Makgeolli. For those seeking a more cultural and quiet experience, the hidden village hike offers beautiful scenery and authentic rural life for about the same price, with the added benefit of exploring lesser-visited areas (link). Lastly, if you’re curious about brewing or want to try making your own rice wine, the Makgeolli workshop is a perfect hands-on activity for a relaxed, educational experience (link).
Budget-wise, all three tours are fairly comparable, with prices around the $35–$50 range, but each offers a different focus — active adventure, cultural exploration, or craft-making. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure spots and enjoy a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
Busan offers a surprising variety of wine-related experiences that go beyond just sipping glasses of wine. From mountain hikes with stunning vistas and local food, to quiet village explorations, and even making your own traditional rice wine — there’s something for every curious traveler. The best choice depends on your interests: choose the hiking tours for scenery and outdoor activity, the hidden village for authentic rural encounters, or the Makgeolli workshop for a fun, interactive step into Korea’s fermentation traditions.
No matter what you pick, these experiences are worth booking early. They promise a memorable glimpse into Korea’s rich drinking culture, and a chance to take home more than just photos — a new story and perhaps even some homemade rice wine.