Gyeongju is a place where history feels as alive as the sparrows that dart between the branches of the pine trees. In this living museum of Korean history, the royal tombs of the Silla Dynasty punctuate the landscape beneath orderly green mounds, centuries-old houses serve as both homes and hip cafes, while mountain mists polish the surfaces of ancient Buddhist pagodas.
Gyeongju is easily accessible from Seoul or Busan. However, it boasts a character very different from these bustling cities, thanks to its ban on high rises. It’s a destination where nature abounds, whether engaging in temple-hunting hikes amidst gnarled pines or observing pink grass in autumn and floating cherry blossoms in spring.
Visitors can take in the highlights in a day and a night, but it is far more rewarding to spend several days exploring and sampling all the Gyeongju specialties. Here are some of the best experiences Gyeongju has to offer.
Walk between Royal Tombs at Tumuli Gongwon
The showstopper sight in Gyeongju is the expansive park known as Tumuli Gongwon – also known as Daereungwon Tomb Park – where 23 grassy hillocks conceal the tombs of the royal family of the Silla Dynasty, who ruled Korea for nearly a millennium until 935 CE. The pyramid-like burial mounds roll across the landscape, creating a surreal resting place for Silla kings and queens along with their treasures. Stepping inside a tomb and feeling the temperature suddenly cool offers an extraordinary sensory experience.
Walk Under a Shower of Cherry Blossoms
During the peak of the Gyeongju cherry blossom festival each spring, pink and white petals fill the air like confetti on the breeze. The city transforms as hundreds of cherry trees create stunning archways of blossoms. Spend a magical day walking around Bomun Lake, admiring the cherry blossoms and pagodas while enjoying a DIY picnic and live traditional music as you watch the sunset over the water.
Relive an Ancient Royal Drinking Game at Poseokjeong Pavilion
The remnants of the royal villa of Poseokjeong include a stone water feature at the base of a massive tree, once part of an ancient drinking game. During the Unified Silla era, the royals and their companions would sit beside this curving granite channel, floating drinking vessels on the water. Each time a vessel passed a participant, it was their turn to drink and recite a line of poetry, adding a touch of sophistication to their social gatherings. Visiting adds a refreshing twist to a tour of Buddhist relics, accessible by the 500 bus from Gyeongju train station.
Witness the Might of the Silla Empire at Bulguk-sa
The impressive Buddhist temple complex of Bulguk-sa was conceived by Silla rulers energized by the unification of the Korean peninsula. The main wooden temple is situated atop a series of stone terraces, surrounded by the invigorating scent of pine needles and irises from adjacent gardens. Take a moment to peer under the eaves and notice the exquisite multicolored tiles and carved dragon heads. Ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes; locally it’s said you will cross into the land of Buddha by traversing the bridges and gateways of Bulguk-sa. Autumn visits are most rewarding when the maple trees display vibrant crimson hues.
Revere the 1000-Year-Old Buddha of Seokguram
Venture beyond the Bulguk-sa temple complex to unveil one of the world’s most exquisite Buddha sculptures. Nestled within the UNESCO-listed cave temple of Seokguram, the three-meter-high (9.8ft) granite statue of Buddha sits in cross-legged contemplation, surrounded by depictions of other Buddhist figures. Gazing up at the statue’s dignified expression offers an awe-inspiring experience in the cool, tranquil air beneath the dome.
Meet Gyeongju’s Cool Kids Shopping on Hwangridan-gil
Timeworn Gyeongju can be strikingly trendy once you venture beyond the tombs and temples. The epicenter of Gyeongju’s contemporary culture is Poseok-Ro, commonly referred to as Hwangridan-gil. Here, you’ll discover an increasing number of well-curated bookstores, such as Eoseo Eoseo, and quirky gift shops like Samdeok Market, which breathes new life into retro Korean toys and knickknacks.
Hip cafes and stylish guesthouses occupy former industrial spaces and traditional hanok houses, creating a modern vibe reminiscent of Seoul, but without the steep prices. Enjoy a coffee at No Words and unwind at a local guesthouse like Hwangnamguan. Stroll from the northwest end of Tumuli Gongwon south along Poseok-Ro and observe the eager crowds at popular spots, especially on weekends.
Snap a Selfie Amidst Pink Muhly Grass
Imagine a field full of vibrant pink muhly grass next to an ancient Korean astronomical observatory and misty mountain peaks. Simply bring your camera to the Cheomseongdae historical site in autumn. Originally imported from America, muhly grass has established itself in gardens across Korea. Plan your visit for September to witness an enchanting scene that is truly unique.
Snack on Sweet Gyeongju Bread
In Asia, it’s often said that things that look cute taste better, and the Gyeongju bread known as hwangnam-ppang proves this theory. Each of these delicate pastries is adorned with a chrysanthemum flower image on top. The dense egg pastry reveals a delightful sweet red bean filling, reminiscent of Chinese moon cakes, yet conveniently sized like a dumpling, making it all too easy to enjoy several. Hwangnam Bread offers Gyeongju bread in decorative boxes, cherished by Koreans as thoughtful gifts.
Hunt Temples on the Hike Up Namsan
In the gnarled pines of Namsan mountain, solitary temples, some without walls, sit quietly in weathered ruin. While this area doesn’t boast perfectly preserved history, the mountains brim with atmosphere and invite you to touch revered relics directly. A network of hiking trails leads through the valleys, turning the mountain into a unique treasure hunt for hundreds of Buddhist wonders.
Hiking highlights include rock-hewn statues, the most notable being the Maitreya Buddha, the future Buddha destined to arrive on Earth when the dharma fades. Dozens more small Buddha statues await discovery in hidden caves and other surprises not indicated on maps. Ideally, a full day is recommended to explore, but even on a brief walk, treasures emerge every ten minutes along the trails, reflecting Gyeongju’s renowned title as a “museum without walls.”
See Dazzling Donggung Palace Mirrored in Wolji Pond
Those seeking picture-perfect experiences should have their cameras ready for nightfall at Wolji Pond (previously known as Anapji Pond). The former royal pleasure garden is awe-inspiring by day, but at night, when the adjacent Donggung Palace – once used by the crown prince of the Silla Kingdom – is illuminated, it creates a mesmerizing mirror image in the still waters.
Sip Traditional Gyeongju Rice Wine
A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring is with a refreshing shot of gyodong beopju, a clear rice wine harmonizing subtle sweet and sour notes. Variations of this alcoholic beverage have been brewed in Korean Buddhist temple villages since at least 1124, and it was a favorite among Silla kings. This intriguing specialty of Gyeongju serves as a delightful digestif, easily sampled at many local restaurants.
Wander Back in Time at Yangdong Folk Village
Ancient Korean society is brought to life in cultural villages throughout Korea, but Yangdong stands out as some of its hanok (traditional houses) are inhabited. These homes, which are up to 500 years old, are situated above lush fields that were once tilled by previous inhabitants. Ascend the hill to admire classic examples of elegant Korean architecture. For added nostalgia, enjoy a meal at a traditional house restaurant such as Uhyangdaok, bathed in sunlight streaming through the wooden windows.
Sample the Specialties of Gyeongju Cuisine
Gyeongju is renowned for its high-quality, tender cuts of beef that could impress any Silla king. The Gyeongju beef is particularly delightful when served as bulgogi (marinated in pear juice and grilled at the table). Many local restaurants serve it on hanjeongsik set menus. For vegetarians, dishes featuring sundubu tofu, hand-ground from local soybeans in a stone mill, are worth seeking out. It is often included in spicy sundubu jjigae stew, but it’s possible to request that meat or seafood be left out if preferred.
Cross Woljeonggyo Bridge
Indeed, a bridge ranks among the highlights of Gyeongju. In fact, Woljeonggyo Bridge is considered one of the country’s most photogenic locations, attracting crowds attesting to its beauty. By day, Woljeonggyo showcases its allure, yet it becomes spectacular when lit at night, resembling an ornate wooden palace.
Woljeonggyo is renowned as Korea’s largest wooden bridge, with visitors enjoying the freedom to traverse through a hall of red columns and stunning roof beams while climbing up towers flanking the bridge. To avoid crowds, it’s best to arrive just before the closing time of 10 pm.
Step Inside the Set of a Korean Reality TV Series
Visitors often flock to Cafe SUPIA for snapshots to adorn their Instagram feeds. While the drinks are delightful and the surroundings of rice paddies and woodlands enchanting, it’s the exposed wooden beams of this charming hanok house that attract fans. Cafe SUPIA served as the backdrop for the popular Korean reality TV series Kang’s Kitchen 2, with delightful yellow dolls from the show embellishing its open-plan interior, while the scent of pine mingles with freshly-brewed coffee.
Uncover Silla Kingdom Treasures at Gyeongju National Museum
With new artifacts continually excavated in Gyeongju, most of these treasures find their place at Gyeongju National Museum, the prime location for learning about the Silla kingdom. A must-visit while in Gyeongju, this museum ranks among the best in the country. Displayed items include a golden crown, dragon-shaped musical instruments, ornamental dagger sheaths, bronze candle-wick trimmers, and a face sculpted into a roof end tile. The newest additions include jeweled beetle ornaments and beautiful gold earrings. Admission is free, allowing for leisurely exploration at your own pace.
