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Overview
Gyeongju is unlike any other city in Korea. Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom for nearly a thousand years, this city is an open-air museum.
Getting There
From Seoul
Take the KTX to Singyeongju Station (about 2 hours).
From Busan
Only 35 minutes by KTX.
Top Sights
Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 528 AD, housing two iconic stone pagodas — Dabotap and Seokgatap.
Seokguram Grotto
Seokguram Grotto contains a magnificent granite Buddha statue gazing out over the East Sea.
Tumuli Park
Tumuli Park (Daereungwon) features massive grass-covered royal burial mounds from the Silla era. Cheonmachong tomb is open to visitors.
Anapji Pond
Anapji Pond is most stunning after dark, when palace buildings reflect on the still water.
Tips
- Rent a bicycle — Gyeongju is very bike-friendly
- Visit Anapji Pond at night for the best photos
- Try Gyeongju bread (경주빵) — local pastry filled with red bean paste
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