Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is often referred to as “the museum without walls” — and for good reason. This city in southeastern Korea is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, royal tombs, ancient temples, and historic ruins that transport visitors back over a thousand years.
Whether you're a history lover, culture enthusiast, or curious traveler, Gyeongju offers a captivating journey into Korea’s glorious past.
π Why Visit Gyeongju?
Gyeongju served as the capital of the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD) for nearly a millennium. During that time, it became the political, cultural, and religious center of Korea. Today, it remains one of the most historically rich destinations in East Asia.
Highlights of Gyeongju:
- Royal tombs and palace ruins
- Ancient Buddhist temples
- Scenic landscapes with deep cultural meaning
- Easy access from Seoul (KTX: ~2 hours)
π― 1. Bulguksa Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Gem
Built in the 8th century, Bulguksa Temple is a masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture. With its beautiful stone pagodas and serene courtyards, it reflects the spiritual grandeur of the Silla era.
What to See:
- Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas
- Wooden halls and lanterns
- Peaceful forested surroundings
Tip: Visit in the early morning for a quiet and meditative experience.
πΏ 2. Seokguram Grotto – Spiritual Stone Carvings in the Mountains
A short drive from Bulguksa, Seokguram Grotto houses a majestic stone Buddha inside a man-made cave on Mount Toham. The craftsmanship and symbolism here are recognized worldwide.
Why It’s Special:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Intricately carved stone guardians
- Panoramic views of the East Sea
Note: Modest attire is recommended for visiting religious sites.
3. Daereungwon Tomb Complex – Silla Royal Tombs
Wander among giant grass-covered mounds that are actually royal tombs from the Silla period. Inside Cheonmachong, one of the tombs open to the public, you can see replicas of ancient artifacts, including a golden crown.
Must-See Elements:
- Dozens of tombs in one area
- Insight into Silla burial culture
- Nearby shops and cafes in Hwangnidan-gil
π 4. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond – Nighttime Magic
Formerly a banquet site for Silla royalty, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond becomes magical after sunset. The reflection of the palace lights shimmering in the water makes this one of Gyeongju’s most romantic sights.
Best Time to Visit:
Evening, just before sunset
Don’t Miss:
- Reflections of ancient structures
- Seasonal flowers along the pond
- A peaceful walk under the stars
π 5. Cheomseongdae Observatory – Asia's Oldest Observatory
Built in the 7th century, Cheomseongdae is considered the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia. Though simple in appearance, its 362 stones represent the days of the lunar year.
Fun Fact:
It’s shaped like an upside-down bottle and was used to observe stars to predict the weather and seasons.
Getting to Gyeongju
From Seoul, you can reach Gyeongju in about 2–2.5 hours using KTX (high-speed train) to Singyeongju Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi.
π± Bonus Tip: Try Gyeongju’s Local DishesDon’t leave without tasting some of the city’s specialties:
- Gyeongju bread (Hwangnam-ppang)
- Ssambap (rice with veggie wraps and side dishes)
- Traditional Korean temple food
A trip to Gyeongju is like stepping into a living history book. From ancient temples and royal tombs to spiritual sites and peaceful ponds, every corner of this city whispers stories of Korea’s proud Silla legacy.
If you want to immerse yourself in Korean history and culture, Gyeongju is an absolute must-visit on your journey through South Korea.
