🏯Gyeongju: The Timeless Capital of Silla
The thousand-year-old capital of Korea, Gyeongju, is more than just a travel destination—it's a living museum where the past and present coexist. From UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto to the charming streets of Hwangnidan-gil, Gyeongju offers a captivating journey for all travelers. This blog will introduce must-visit places, hidden gems, delicious food spots, and practical travel tips for your perfect trip!
📖 The History of Gyeongju – The Ancient Capital of Silla
Gyeongju is one of Korea’s oldest cities and was the capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD). For nearly a thousand years, it flourished as the political, economic, and cultural center of Korea. Even today, the city is filled with countless historical relics, earning it the nickname “The Rome of Korea.”
🔹 Iconic Historical Sites in Gyeongju
- Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto – The essence of Silla’s Buddhist culture
- Cheomseongdae Observatory – The oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia
- Daereungwon & Cheonmachong Tombs – The royal tombs of Silla kings
- Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond – The Silla royal family’s stunning palace
Many of these sites are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making Gyeongju a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
🚄 How to Get to Gyeongju from Seoul
Gyeongju is well-connected and easily accessible from Seoul and other major cities in Korea.
KTX (High-Speed Train) 🚄
- Travel Time: About 2 hours 10 minutes
- Departure: Seoul Station or Suseo Station (SRT)
- Arrival: Singyeongju Station
- Why Choose It? Fast and convenient, with easy transfers to buses or taxis to reach downtown Gyeongju.
Express Bus 🚌
- Travel Time: About 4 hours
- Departure: Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Central City)
- Arrival: Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal
- Why Choose It? More affordable than KTX and arrives directly in the city center.
Car 🚗
- Travel Time: About 4 hours 30 minutes
- Recommended Route: Gyeongbu Expressway → Gyeongju IC → Gyeongju City
- Why Choose It? Offers flexibility and the ability to explore surrounding areas.
📌 Travel Tip: KTX is the fastest way to reach Gyeongju. Once there, renting a bicycle or electric scooter is a great way to explore the city.
🎭 How to Enjoy Gyeongju to the Fullest
📸 Hanbok & Traditional Costume Experience
Wear a traditional hanbok or a modernized version and stroll through Cheomseongdae, Donggung Palace, and Daereungwon for a truly immersive experience.
📌 Want to explore the history and beauty of Hanbok?
👉 Discover the Beauty and History of Hanbok
🚲 Bicycle Tours
Gyeongju has well-maintained bike paths, making it a perfect city to explore on two wheels.
🌅 Gyeongju’s Magical Nightscape
Gyeongju takes on a different charm at night. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Cheomseongdae, and Hwangnidan-gil are beautifully illuminated, making for a breathtaking experience.
📍 Must-Visit Places in Gyeongju
Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto – UNESCO World Heritage Sites
No trip to Gyeongju is complete without visiting Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.
- Bulguksa Temple: A masterpiece of Silla architecture, home to National Treasures like Daeungjeon Hall and Cheongungyo & Baegungyo Bridges.
- Seokguram Grotto: A world-renowned Buddhist art treasure, housing a stunning Buddha statue inside a cave temple.
📌 Travel Tips:
✔️ Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes—Seokguram Grotto is located on a steep path!
🌙 Cheomseongdae & Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond – A Night to Remember
These landmarks are stunning at any time, but they’re even more magical at night.
- Cheomseongdae Observatory: The oldest surviving astronomical observatory in East Asia. It glows beautifully under soft evening lights.
- Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond: The reflection of the palace on the pond creates an enchanting scene after sunset.
📌 Travel Tips:
✔️ Visit at sunset to see the transformation from day to night.
✔️ Bring a tripod for perfect night photography!
☕ Hwangnidan-gil – The Trendiest Street in Gyeongju
Hwangnidan-gil blends tradition and modernity, featuring renovated hanok cafes and trendy boutiques.
🏡 Recommended Cafes & Restaurants
📍 Café Orbi – Rooftop cafe with a view of Cheomseongdae
📍 Gyeongju Sikdang – A hanok-style brunch cafe
📍 Hwangnam Bread Main Store – A famous local delicacy
📌 Travel Tips:
✔️ Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
✔️ Explore the alleys for hidden gems!
🏞️ Hidden Gems in Gyeongju
Yangdong Village – A Joseon Dynasty Traditional Village
Beyond Silla’s heritage, Gyeongju also preserves Joseon-era traditions in Yangdong Village.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 500-year-old hanok houses
- A famous filming location for Korean historical dramas
📌 Travel Tips:
✔️ Visit in the morning for a peaceful experience.
✔️ Best in autumn when the leaves turn golden.
🏨 Recommended Accommodations in Gyeongju
Gyeongju offers various lodging options to suit every traveler's taste.
🏯 Traditional Hanok Stay
- Gyeongju Hanok 1st Street – Authentic hanok experience
- Lahan Select Gyeongju – A luxury hanok-style hotel
🏩 Boutique Hotels & Resorts
- Hwangnidan-gil Stay – Trendy boutique hotel
- Sono Belle Gyeongju – Family-friendly with great facilities
📌 Booking Tip: Hotels fill up quickly during peak seasons (cherry blossoms & autumn foliage), so book in advance!
🍽️ Best Food in Gyeongju
Gyerim Kimbap – One of Korea’s Top 3 Kimbap
📌 Location: 69-2 Gyo-dong, Gyeongju
📌 Must-Try: Gyerim Kimbap & Anchovy Noodles
Hwangnam Bread – A Classic Gyeongju Treat
📌 Location: 347-1 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju
📌 Must-Try: Original Hwangnam Bread (perfect as a souvenir)
🚗 Essential Travel Tips for Gyeongju
✔️ Transportation: Rent a car for flexibility, or use public transport for budget travel.
✔️ Best Seasons to Visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) & Autumn (fall foliage).
✔️ Discount Passes: Save money with a Gyeongju City Pass.
🎒 Gyeongju is Always a Great Idea!
With its rich history, charming streets, and delicious local food, Gyeongju is more than just a travel destination—it’s an unforgettable experience.
I found Starbucks Gyeongju Daereungwon Branch to be quite impressive when I stopped by for a cup of coffee. The store features an interior inspired by hanok, Korea’s traditional houses, creating a unique atmosphere. After exploring Daereungwon and Hwangnidan-gil, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee in the outdoor seating area while soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Plan your trip now and create memories that will last a lifetime!✨