Gyeongju

Planning Your Trip to Gyeongju

Country and State

• South Korea

Timezone

• GMT+9

Languages Spoken

• Korean

Currency

• South Korean Won (KRW)

Weather and Climate

• Spring (March-May): Mild, blooming flowers, pleasant. Perfect for sightseeing.
• Summer (June-August): Hot, humid, monsoon season with occasional rain.
• Autumn (September-November): Cool, dry, vibrant foliage. Ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Winter (December-February): Cold, dry, occasional snow. Embrace the winter charm!

Gyeongju City Overview

Gyeongju, the “museum without walls,” is a captivating city in South Korea, brimming with history and culture. As the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly a millennium (57 BC – 935 AD), it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites: magnificent temples, royal tombs, and ancient fortresses. Gyeongju seamlessly merges historical significance with modern comforts, offering a unique glimpse into Korea’s past while providing a convenient travel experience. Explore Bulguksa Temple, relax by Anapji Pond, and journey through time. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene escape. Explore ruins, admire Buddhist art, and wander charming streets for an unforgettable Korean adventure.

Best Time to Visit Gyeongju

Seasonal Pros and Cons

• Spring (March-May):
  • Pros: Lovely weather, cherry blossoms, ideal for exploring.
  • Cons: Peak tourist season, might be crowded.
• Autumn (September-November):
  • Pros: Cool, dry weather, stunning foliage, fewer crowds.
  • Cons: Shorter daylight hours.
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Lush greenery, vibrant events.
  • Cons: Hot, humid, heavy rainfall during monsoon.
• Winter (December-February):
  • Pros: Fewer tourists, unique scenery, winter activities.
  • Cons: Cold, some attractions with limited hours.

Getting There and Visa Requirements

Flights, Trains, and Visas

• Flights: Daegu International Airport (TAE) is the closest (domestic and limited international). Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan is larger and about 1.5 hours by KTX train.
• Trains: Gyeongju has a KTX station, easily accessible from Seoul and Busan.
• Visa Details: Check the South Korean embassy or consulate for requirements based on your nationality. Many nationalities have visa-free entry for tourism for a limited time.
• Airport Transfers: Bus or taxi from Daegu Airport. KTX train from Busan Airport (Busan Station to Gyeongju Station).

Gyeongju: Fun Facts & History

Gyeongju’s Daereungwon Tomb Complex features the Cheonmachong Tomb, famed for the “Heavenly Horse” painting. This ancient artwork provides invaluable insights into the Silla kingdom’s culture.

Famous People from Gyeongju

While pinpointing famous *individuals* solely *from* Gyeongju is tricky due to historical records, the city is heavily associated with the Silla Dynasty’s rulers, scholars, and artists who significantly shaped Korean history and culture.

Top 10 Gyeongju Attractions

• Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO site showcasing Silla Buddhist architecture with intricate structures.

  385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Seokguram Grotto: A UNESCO site, a stone cave temple housing a Buddha statue.

  873-243 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Daereungwon Tomb Complex (Tumuli Park): Royal tombs, including the Cheonmachong Tomb (Heavenly Horse).

  9 Gyerim-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Anapji Pond (Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond): A beautiful pond, illuminated at night, with reconstructed palace buildings.

  102 Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Gyeongju National Museum: Silla artifacts: pottery, jewelry, weapons.

  186 Iljeong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Cheomseongdae Observatory: One of the oldest astronomical observatories.

  839-1 Tap-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Gyerim Forest: Birthplace of the Gim family, founders of the Gyeongju Gim clan.

  Gyerim-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Poseokjeong Pavilion Site: Remains of a royal garden.

  63 Poseokjeong-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Bunhwangsa Temple: Known for its brick pagoda from the Silla period.

  99-5 Bunhwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Oreung (Five Royal Tombs): Resting place of early Silla kings.

  61 Tap-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Gyeongju Hidden Gems

• Namsan Mountain: Buddhist relics, temples, hiking trails.

  Namsan, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (various access points)

• Dongnakdang Historic House: Preserved traditional Korean house from the Joseon Dynasty.

  212 Gyo-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Yangdong Folk Village: UNESCO Site, traditional Joseon Dynasty village.

  93 Yangdongmaeul-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Local Festivals & Events in Gyeongju

• Silla Culture Festival (October): Celebrates Silla history with parades and performances.
• Cherry Blossom Marathon (April): A scenic marathon during cherry blossom season.

Day Trips From Gyeongju

• Busan (approx. 1.5 hours by KTX): Coastal city with beaches and modern attractions.
• Daegu (approx. 1 hour by train): City with historical sites and shopping.

Photography Spots in Gyeongju

• Anapji Pond at night: Illuminated pond.
• Bulguksa Temple: Intricate wooden structures.
• Daereungwon Tomb Complex: Rolling green mounds.
• Cheomseongdae Observatory: Unique structure, especially at sunset.
• Namsan Mountain: Panoramic views.

Where to Stay & Getting Around Gyeongju

Recommended Stay Duration

3-4 days is ideal to explore Gyeongju’s attractions.

Top Places to Stay in Gyeongju

Budget Hotels

• Gyeongju GG House: 17-1, Wonhwa-ro 289beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Gyeongju Backpackers: 17-1, Wonhwa-ro 289beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• N Motel: 15 Bonghwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Blue Boat Hostel Gyeongju: 14-1, Jungang-ro 55beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Silla Guesthouse: 5-1, Bonghwang-ro 19beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Mid-Range Hotels

• Commodore Hotel Gyeongju: 145, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• BENIKEA Swiss Rosen Hotel: 132-1, Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Gyeongju Kolon Hotel: 12, Bukgun-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Hotel Valentine: 147, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Sugar Hotel: 60, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Luxury Hotels

• Hilton Gyeongju: 484-7, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Lahan Hotel Gyeongju: 338, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• The K Hotel Gyeongju: 745, Bodeok-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Hanwha Resort Gyeongju: 182-2, Bodeok-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Getting Around Gyeongju

• Public Transport: Reliable bus system.
• Taxis: Readily available.
• Bikes: Great for exploring, especially Bomun Lake.
• Walking: Many central attractions are within walking distance.

Preparing for Your Gyeongju Trip

What to Pack for Gyeongju

• Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers for spring/autumn, warm clothes for winter, light clothes for summer.
• Rain gear: Important during monsoon season (June-August).
• Sunscreen and hat: For sun protection.
• Modest clothing: For visiting temples.

Useful Apps for Gyeongju

• KakaoMap/Naver Map: Navigation apps.
• KakaoBus: Bus schedules.
• VisitKorea: Tourism app.
• Papago: Translation app.

Local Tips & Etiquette in Gyeongju

• Do: Respect elders and historical sites.
• Do: Remove shoes before entering homes/temples.
• Do: Learn basic Korean phrases.
• Don’t: Speak loudly in public.
• Don’t: Litter.
• Scams to avoid: Be wary of persistent vendors/inflated taxi prices.

Food, Fun & Finds in Gyeongju

Top Gyeongju Restaurants

• Gyodong Beopju (교동법주): Traditional Korean cuisine, local liquor.

  63-1, Gyochon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Hwangnam Bread (황남빵): Signature Gyeongju bread.

  Multiple Locations, including Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Sukyeong Sikdang (수경식당): Bibimbap and Galbijjim.

  68 Bonghwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Must-Try Dishes in Gyeongju

• Hwangnam Bread (Hwangnambbang): Sweet bread.
• Ssambap: Rice and side dishes wrapped in lettuce.
• Beopju: Traditional Korean liquor.
• Chalbori bread: sticky barley bread

Gyeongju Nightlife & Entertainment

• Bonghwangdae Music Square: Outdoor concerts.

  Bonghwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Local Bars in Hwanglidangil: Bars and pubs.

  Hwanglidangil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Souvenirs & Shopping in Gyeongju

• Hwangnidangil: Local crafts and souvenirs.

  Hwangnidangil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Jungang Market: Local produce and handicrafts.

  1 Jungang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

• Gyodong Beopju (교동법주): Traditional Korean liquor.

  63-1, Gyochon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do