Best things to do in Gyeongju
Find out more about those top places in Gyeongju
Discover Gyeongju: South Korea’s Ancient Treasure Trove
When it comes to places to visit in South Korea, Gyeongju may not always top the list, but it absolutely should. Often overshadowed by the bustling metropolises of Seoul and Busan, this coastal gem is nothing short of a historical treasure trove, packed with centuries-old sites that will make your inner history buff do a happy dance. Gyeongju is the cultural heart of the Silla Dynasty, where 1000 years of history come together in a beautiful blend of ancient temples, royal tombs, and stunning landscapes.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, culture-filled experience with a side of sightseeing, then Gyeongju is the place to be. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique adventure, Gyeongju is a must-see destination.
1. Tumuli-gongwon: The Royal Burial Grounds
Gyeongju’s top attraction and a must-see on any travel guide is the Tumuli-gongwon (also known as the Daereungwon Tomb Complex). This sprawling, tranquil park is home to the burial mounds of 23 Silla monarchs. Yes, you read that right – royalty buried under grassy hills. It’s like something out of a fantasy novel, but it’s real! As you stroll through the park, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of kings and queens who ruled the Silla Kingdom over a millennium ago.
The burial mounds are perfectly preserved, and while it might not sound like the most exciting thing, there’s something incredibly serene about this historical site. It's almost as if the mounds are whispering the secrets of ancient royalty. Plus, the views are spectacular, especially during sunset when the mounds cast long, mystical shadows across the park.
Pro Tip: If you want to feel like a true royal, make sure to walk along the tree-lined paths and take a moment to appreciate the silence. Your inner king or queen will thank you.
2. Bulguk-sa: A UNESCO Temple Like No Other
Another of Gyeongju’s top attractions is the Bulguk-sa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Korean Buddhist architecture. Sitting atop the Tohamsan Mountain, this ancient temple will leave you in awe with its intricate carvings, serene atmosphere, and historical significance. The temple was built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty and is considered one of the finest examples of Buddhist architecture in the country.
As you wander through the temple grounds, you’ll find beautifully adorned stone pagodas, statues, and perfectly manicured gardens that offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the famous Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. These pagodas aren’t just pretty—they symbolize a deep connection to both the physical and spiritual world, which is something every traveler can appreciate.
3. The Silla Dynasty’s Former Palace Complex: A Glimpse Into Royalty
Speaking of royalty, Gyeongju is also home to the ruins of the former palace complex of the Silla Dynasty. The site is brimming with remnants of the Gyeongju Palace, which was once the heart of the kingdom. While not as intact as some other palaces in Korea, the historic location still offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the Silla court.
If you’re into ancient palaces and ruins, this is the place to go. Take a stroll through the site and imagine the palaces and courts that once stood here. Don’t forget to grab a map from the visitor’s center, as the area is expansive, and there’s plenty to discover—especially if you enjoy roaming around ruins with a sense of mystery.
4. Cheomseongdae Observatory: South Korea’s Oldest Observatory
If you’re into ancient science (or just like cool structures), then Cheomseongdae is one of the top attractions for sightseeing in Gyeongju. This ancient astronomical observatory is the oldest surviving observatory in East Asia. Built during the 7th century, it’s not only a significant historical structure but also a fascinating peek into how the Silla Dynasty made sense of the stars. Standing tall and proud, it’s like a snapshot of the past, reminding us that the Silla people were advanced astronomers long before smartphones and fancy telescopes.
Tip: The observatory is best visited at night when it’s all lit up, creating a romantic and mysterious vibe. Just imagine ancient stargazers observing the heavens while you’re snapping selfies—talk about time travel!
5. Anapji Pond: A Tranquil Oasis
After all that history, sometimes you need a peaceful moment to reflect and soak in the natural beauty. That’s where Anapji Pond comes in. This serene pond, originally part of the palace grounds, is one of the most tranquil spots in Gyeongju. The reflections of traditional pavilions on the water make it a prime location for peaceful walks or romantic strolls. At night, the pond is illuminated, offering a magical setting for a quiet evening.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot to relax and unwind, this is it. Trust us, it’ll be hard to leave!
6. Gyeongju National Museum: Dive Deeper into the Silla Dynasty
For a deeper dive into Gyeongju’s rich history, the Gyeongju National Museum is a must-see. With a collection of artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, including gold crowns, ancient jewelry, and relics from the royal tombs, this museum offers a fascinating look at the life and culture of one of Korea’s most powerful kingdoms. If you’re a history lover, you’ll be in museum heaven here. It’s the perfect way to round off your trip to this ancient city.
Conclusion: Gyeongju – South Korea’s Ancient Gem
So, what are you waiting for? Gyeongju is a city that offers history, beauty, culture, and a dash of serenity that’s hard to find in the more bustling cities of South Korea. From the ancient burial mounds of Tumuli-gongwon to the UNESCO-listed Bulguk-sa Temple and the tranquil Anapji Pond, Gyeongju is a place where past and present meet, offering a journey through South Korea’s ancient history in the most captivating way.
Pro Tip: Gyeongju may be quiet compared to its bigger neighbors, but it’s anything but boring. Get ready to explore, learn, and fall in love with one of the country’s most spectacular cultural destinations. Just don’t forget to pack your walking shoes—there’s a lot of history to cover!
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Bulguksa
Bulguksa, the crowning architectural achievement of the Silla Kingdom, is one of South Korea’s most iconic attractions. Set on a series of stone terraces, the temple complex encompasses numerous ornate bridges, gilded pagodas celebrating the Buddha and landscaped gardens that are a joy to explore. Guided tours of this UNESCO listed site are easily arranged and help delve into the rich symbolism of the architecture.
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Tumuli Park
The South Korean ministry of tourism likes to describe Gyeongju as an open-air museum, and they are not wrong. Tumuli Park, which covers a vast swathe of the city, is home to the burial mounds, known as tumuli, of 23 Silla monarchs. The tumuli are grassy mounds meant to represent that rounded hillocks that surround the city. Currently, only one tomb is open for visitors, Cheonmachong.
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Seokguram
Not far from the Bulguksa temple is the UNESCO listed grotto of Seokguram, which contains numerous Buddhist sculptures. The temple’s position high in the mountains overlooking the East Sea has made it the symbolic protector of the Korean nation and the site’s history is palpable. Guided tours of this remarkable complex are available.
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Noseo-dong Tombs
Right in the heart of Gyeongju’s shopping district are two of the largest extant Silla tombs, known as Noseo-dong. Both were erected in the 5th century and were excavated during the 1940s with archaeologists finding a plethora of historic artifacts, including two golden crowns. While the tombs cannot be entered, they are impressive to wander round and marvel at the engineering prowess of the ancient kingdom.
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Gyeongju National Museum
Often touted as Korea’s best museum, the Gyeongju National Museum has a simply astonishing collection of artifacts dating from the Silla period. The main exhibits have countless pieces of jewelry, weaponry and ceremonial items dating from the 5th and 6th centuries AD while an art hall focuses exclusively on the Buddhist art forms found at Bulguksa Temple.
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Anapji Pond
Newly weds from across South Korea come to the idyllic Anapji Pond, which is surrounded by the imposing Donggung Palace complex. The pond itself is also a site of great archaeological importance. It was created to commemorate the unification of Korea under the Silla Dynasty and many historic relics have been dredged from the pond in recent decades, most of which are now displayed at the Gyeongju National Museum.
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Underwater Tomb of King Munmu
Thought to be the only underwater tomb in the world, the tomb of King Munmu is one of South Korea’s most unusual historic attractions. The burial site was chosen as King Munmu was thought to be able to transform in death into a sea dragon that could protect the Silla Kingdom. Today, little can be seen from the land bar the remains of the temple that once stood in the sea. However, the spot is popular for shamanic rituals giving it an unforgettable atmosphere.
