After exploring the capital, Seoul, and the bustling metropolis of Busan, I headed to Gyeongju for a weekend, often dubbed the “museum city” of South Korea. And I must say, this stop is truly worth it. I loved this city in the countryside. You feel good there, people take their time, ask you lots of questions mixing languages, English, Korean, and body language…
One thing is certain when visiting Gyeongju: be prepared to walk, and walk a lot. With its numerous historical sites scattered throughout the city, discovering everything Gyeongju has to offer requires a good sense of adventure and a comfortable pair of shoes.
You feel really good in Gyeongju, and there are a multitude of wonders to discover. Pagodas, temples steeped in history, ancient tombs, and many other treasures dot this region. As you explore every corner, you’ll realize that there’s so much to see and appreciate throughout this locality. You can start with the must-see sites of the city, but don’t underestimate the lesser-known, equally captivating spots. Whether you plan to stay for a day or two, or extend your stay, you’ll always find something to explore as there are numerous sites in the city and its surroundings.
In this article, I want to share with you the places I had the opportunity to visit and explore. However, as you’ve probably understood, it’s important to note that there are many other sites I didn’t get to discover. I invite you to explore freely and choose your own itinerary. What I present here is not an exhaustive list of must-sees but simply a selection of places I personally had the chance to visit.
Let’s go!
Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa Temple is a jewel of Gyeongju, renowned for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens. A walk around its surroundings will immerse you in an atmosphere of peace and spirituality.
When inside the temple, at the heart of the main pagoda, the atmosphere is imbued with spirituality and serenity. Three Buddhas adorn the space, each unique. The central Buddha sits majestically, while the others are painted in vibrant colors, adding a touch of liveliness to the ensemble. All around, carved wood unfolds in a variety of motifs, from roof typologies to dragon sculptures, creating a majestic and timeless atmosphere. I was literally fascinated by the wooden and fabric murals behind the Buddha statues.
Visitors flock to offer their prayers before the Buddhas, respecting the sacred place where photos are strictly forbidden. It was quite crowded, sometimes even too much. Begonias and chrysanthemums adorn every corner, while thousands of lanterns provide shade. These lanterns are only there in May, in relation to Buddha’s birthday. You can read more in my article here.
Inside another building, I discovered an impressive collection of Buddhas, each telling a unique story through their features and expressions. Again, there are paintings on large, magnificent tapestries.
Remember to take the time to appreciate every detail and soak in the serenity that reigns in these places.
Seokguram Grotto
When you arrive at the site, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful gate, marking the start of a pleasant walk through the forest. This walk through the winding paths between the trees adds a dimension of tranquility to the experience.
Once you reach your destination, you need to climb a stone staircase to get to the grotto.
From the outside, it looks like a small temple with a magnificent stone Buddha statue inside, behind a glass. The experience lasts less than a minute. Photos and videos are forbidden.
So, you don’t go to this spot just for the Buddha statue and the grotto because the visit is brief, but for the entire environment, starting with the peaceful walk. However, if you only have one day and other places to visit, it’s clearly a stop you can skip because it involves a lot of travel, and you’ll have the chance to see other equally calming and interesting places.
Tips: To visit Seokguram Grotto, it’s essential to plan your time well and start your visits early in the morning to avoid prolonged travel times. Personally, I highly recommend starting early to optimize your day, as even if the travel times seem okay, bus waiting times can change the equation.
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond is an imperial site offering a breathtaking view of its lotus-studded pond. A stroll around this palace allows you to admire the beauty of traditional Korean architecture.
Imagine walking along paved paths, surrounded by beautiful green trees, under a clear, pleasant sky, as you slowly approach this ancient imperial palace. Donggung Palace stands majestically before you, with all the grandeur and splendor of a bygone era. Not bad, right?
As I visited at the opening (9:00 AM), the place was calm and truly soothing (this was a recurring sensation throughout my stay in Gyeongju).
The traditional wooden buildings, with sloping roofs and delicate ornaments, tell centuries of Korean history and culture. But what truly captivates the soul is Wolji Pond. Imagine a peaceful pond, adorned with blooming lotuses, whose waters perfectly reflect the surrounding buildings. It’s a living painting.
Woljeonggyo Bridge
Okay, first thing to say: MA-GNI-FI-CENT. Woljeonggyo Bridge is a historic bridge offering a panoramic view of the Geumgang River.
You stroll along the banks of the Geumgang River, the gentle lapping of the water accompanying your steps, and you approach a majestic bridge looming on the horizon: Woljeonggyo Bridge.
This historic bridge is much more than just a means of crossing from one side to the other. It’s a symbol of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Gyeongju region. It was built with impressive craftsmanship, as the photos attest.
Walking on Woljeonggyo Bridge, you feel literally transported back in time, and the panoramic view of the Geumgang River is breathtaking, with its calm waters reflecting the sky and surrounding mountains.
Gyeongju Observatory
Gyeongju Observatory, also known as Cheomseongdae, is one of the oldest surviving astronomical observatories in Asia. It was built in the 7th century during the reign of Queen Seondeok and testifies to the ingenuity and scientific advancement of the Silla kingdom.
This stone monument, made up of 362 blocks representing the days of the lunar year, stands proudly in the middle of a vast field with stunning flower fields (perfect for photo enthusiasts).
Hwangnidan-gil
Hwangnidan-gil is the must-visit street, picturesque and lined with artisanal shops and traditional restaurants. Located in the heart of Gyeongju, it is known for its lively atmosphere and charming craft shops.
It’s quite nice, packed with people of course, and a good mix between traditional with the architecture of the houses, local crafts, and the modern development of South Korea with photo studios, trinket shops, and sweets.
Each shop had its own personality, offering a variety of products ranging from traditional Korean pottery to cute plastic items, and textiles.
Hwangnidan-gil is also where you will eat after a good day of walking. There are numerous restaurants and street food stands offering a variety of regional culinary specialties.
Strolling through Hwangnidan-gil, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of history and culture that permeates every corner. The traditional hanok buildings, with their curved tile roofs and finely carved wooden doors, add an authentic touch to the street’s ambiance. Some of these old buildings have been transformed into cafes and galleries, creating a harmonious blend of past and present.
Gyochon Village
Gyochon Village is a true hidden gem of Gyeongju, offering an immersive dive into traditional Korean history and culture. From the moment I arrived, I was transported to another era, where time seemed to have stood still. This preserved traditional village is a place where you can truly feel the spirit and authenticity of old Korea.
Walking through the narrow streets of Gyochon Village, I was fascinated by the hanok houses, these traditional Korean dwellings with curved roofs and walls made of wood and earth. Each house is a testament to the architecture and craftsmanship of the time. The interiors are equally charming, with ondol (underfloor heating) floors and hanji paper sliding doors, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Historic House of the Rich Man Choi
The Historic House of the Rich Man Choi, or Choi’s House, is a traditional Korean house that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of wealthy landowners during the Joseon Dynasty. It was built in the early 19th century by Choi Champan, an influential nobleman.
I hadn’t planned to visit this place but passed by on my way back from Woljeonggyo Bridge, and fortunately so! I loved it. It’s a remarkable example of traditional Korean architecture. Exploring its various rooms, you get an idea of the daily life of wealthy landowners of the time. The traditional architecture, with its curved roofs and richly carved wooden beams, is magnificent.
Daereungwon Tomb Complex
The Daereungwon Tomb Complex, also known as Tumuli Park, is a must-visit site for anyone interested in the ancient history of Korea. This park, located in the heart of Gyeongju, houses numerous royal tombs dating back to the Silla period, each marked by imposing tumuli that give the landscape a mystical and solemn look.
The tumuli are mound-shaped tombs. In South Korea, these tumuli are often associated with ancient dynasties, like the Silla dynasty. Each tumulus typically houses a single royal or noble tomb. These burial mounds are important historical monuments and testify to the ancient funeral architecture in South Korea.
Entering the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, I felt transported to another era, where silence and tranquility reigned. The park is vast and peaceful, making it the perfect place for a walk. The paths wind between the tumuli, allowing visitors to appreciate the grandeur and majesty of these ancient royal tombs.
One of the most notable features of this site is the Cheonmachong Tomb, which has been opened to the public. Inside, you can see a reproduction of the tomb’s interior, with ancient artifacts and treasures found during archaeological excavations. This experience offers a fascinating insight into the funerary practices and art of the Silla period.
Illuminated at night
the beauty of gyeongju doesn’t stop with the setting sun. in fact, some of the city’s most iconic sites take on an even more magical dimension once night falls. donggung palace and wolji pond are gyeongju’s must-sees, both by day and by night. woljeonggyo bridge is also a sight to behold at night. this historic bridge, with its elegant structure and panoramic view of the geumgang river, becomes even more impressive when illuminated.
even the royal tombs of the daereungwon tomb complex take on a magical aura under the evening lights. the majestic tumuli are subtly lit, creating a mystical and solemn atmosphere. there’s also the gyeongju observatory, which shouldn’t be missed at nightfall.
and of course, don’t miss a stroll through gyeongju’s streets once night falls. neighborhoods like hwangnidan-gil are lively and illuminated, offering a vibrant atmosphere with their craft shops and traditional restaurants. the city itself becomes a spectacle of lights, with lanterns and decorations adding to its nocturnal charm.
Jungang market (day and night)
I recommend visiting Jungang market, a true heartbeat of the city. This historic market, established in 1983, is a bustling place where you’ll experience the authentic local life.
Wandering through the alleys of Jungang market, you’re enveloped by a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. the stalls are filled with fresh produce, from colorful fruits and vegetables to local seafood and meats, and many stands are run by the elderly. The enticing aromas of freshly prepared street food will invite you to stop and taste local specialties in the small restaurants within the market.
In the evening, Jungang market transforms into a more animated culinary destination. a very charming method to sample various specialties is to buy a four-compartment box from a first stand of your choice. By purchasing this box, you receive three coupons that you can exchange for dishes at three other stands. thus, you end up with four different types of food, in small portions, allowing you to savor a variety of local flavors.
Immersion guaranteed in Korean daily life.
In conclusion, Gyeongju is much more than just a museum city. It’s a true cultural and historical treasure, where every street corner reveals a part of south Korea’s fascinating history. From ancient temples to royal tombs, picturesque alleys to enchanting landscapes, Gyeongju offers an immersive experience into the country’s glorious past.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, or simply in search of new discoveries, Gyeongju will captivate you with its timeless beauty and unique ambiance. So, take the time to get lost in its streets, explore its hidden treasures, and soak up its captivating charm.
