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 is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 528 AD, housing two iconic stone pagodas — Dabotap and Seokgatap.
Seokguram Grotto contains a magnificent granite Buddha statue gazing out over the East Sea.
Tumuli Park (Daereungwon) features massive grass-covered royal burial mounds from the Silla era. Cheonmachong tomb is open to visitors.
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