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Gyeongju, located in South Korea, was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty and the cradle of ancient Korean civilization. With a current population of 280,000, it is a tranquil city. Royal tombs, stone pagodas, Buddhist statues, and temple ruins can be found throughout the mountains and valleys. A visit to the ancient capital of Gyeongju, rather than exploring the museums, is like exploring the remains of a brilliant ancient culture. Hence, it's known as a "museum without walls."
Gyeongju's underground cultural relics are not only found throughout the city but also in the surrounding suburbs, where archaeological excavations are still ongoing. Gyeongju, recognized as one of the world's ten ancient capitals, is truly a historical and cultural museum without walls.
Ancient tomb parks can be found on every street corner in Gyeongju. Excavations at the Cheonmachong tomb have yielded over 10,000 antiques, all of which are now part of the museum's collection. Gyeongju is brimming with historical sites: royal tombs, tombs of generals, stone tablets, ponds, pavilions, and images of the twelve zodiac animals. Cheomseongdae, the 7th-century stone observatory of the Silla Kingdom, is a marvel for visitors. Other attractions include Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Bunhwangsa Pagoda, the Five Tombs, and Bomun Lake Recreation Area.
Continental climate; Gyeongju has a rich cultural heritage and is a world-renowned cultural tourism city, suitable for travel in all seasons.
Ancient Tomb Park, Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae, Seokguram Grotto, Anapji Pond, Gyeongju National Museum, etc.
It is recommended to visit for 1-2 days
free
Open all day
Gyeongju, once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, is a city steeped in history. It is known for its well-preserved historical sites, including temples, tombs, and palaces. The city is often referred to as "the museum without walls" because of its vast array of historical and cultural sites scattered throughout the city.
Gyeongju is located in the southeastern part of South Korea, in North Gyeongsang Province. It can be accessed by KTX (high-speed train) from Seoul or Busan, as well as by intercity bus. From the bus or train station, taxis or local buses are available to reach specific attractions. Walking is a good option for short distances in the city center.
Most attractions in Gyeongju are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. Weekdays tend to be less busy compared to weekends.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, Bulguksa Temple has an entrance fee of around 5,000 KRW. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site, though some sites offer online ticketing options for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most attractions, except during peak tourist seasons. For popular sites like Bulguksa Temple, online booking can be done a few days in advance to ensure availability.
To fully explore Gyeongju, you would need about 2-3 days. This allows time to visit the major attractions, such as Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Anapji Pond, as well as explore the historical parks and museums.
Guided tours are available in English and Korean. Audio guides can be rented at many of the major sites, including Bulguksa Temple and the Gyeongju National Museum, providing information in multiple languages including English.
Start by visiting Bulguksa Temple in the morning, then head to Seokguram Grotto in the early afternoon. In the late afternoon, visit Anapji Pond, and if you have time, explore Tumuli Park and the Gyeongju National Museum. You can also visit the historical sites in the city center by foot.
Some attractions, such as Anapji Pond, are beautifully illuminated at night, offering a great evening experience. However, most sites close by 6:00 PM. Special night tours or light shows are not common but may be available during festivals.
Gyeongju can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the spring and autumn. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times, especially outside of national holidays.
Most major attractions, such as Bulguksa Temple and the Gyeongju National Museum, have toilets, rest areas, and food stands. There are also shops selling souvenirs and snacks. For a wider selection of food, the city center offers many restaurants and cafes.
Many of the major sites in Gyeongju, such as Bulguksa Temple and Tumuli Park, are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, although there are some steep paths and steps to navigate. It's advisable to check with specific attractions for the availability of wheelchair access.
Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Samsung Pay, Naver Pay) are widely accepted at most major attractions, restaurants, and shops in Gyeongju. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops or attractions that may not accept cards.
There are some vegetarian and vegan-friendly options in local restaurants, such as vegetable bibimbap or tofu dishes. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in larger restaurants or specialized eateries.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops near popular attractions in Gyeongju. Common souvenirs include traditional Korean handicrafts, ceramics, and Gyeongju-style pastries. You can also find replicas of the ancient royal tombs and Buddha statues.
You can continue your journey by taking a bus or taxi to nearby cities like Busan or Daegu, both of which are about an hour or two away. Gyeongju is also well connected by KTX train to other major cities in South Korea.
