Anyone who has ever been to Seoul, lived in Seoul, or seen pictures of Seoul can observe that it’s a fast-pace metropolitan. Just like any traveler, when you visit a destination you want to see and experience the uniqueness of that region. I sought to walk through traditional Korean homes called Hanoks, on my way to work and sip tea in wooden carve window cafes that directed my eyes to lush green mountains - a deficiency I acquire living in Seoul. So, when I was invited to visit the historic city Gyeongju, also known as “The Museum Without Walls,” I didn’t hesitate to say yes.
The mid-size city is fenced in by a ripple of mountains and a 45-min drive from the coast. What was once the capital of the three kingdom Korea Peninsula and a contributor to the Silk Road, has become the capital for Korea’s pre-Joseon dynasty history. Gyeongju embodies everything a traveler would desire when it comes to experiencing ancient Korea. It was something about the close-knit locals and strolling past open window Hanok cafés that really charmed me about this city. If Gyeongju had a sister city, it would be Kyoto, Japan. Both cities fuse modernism with history and occupy traditional fashioned Starbucks.
It is a must cultural destination I recommend for anyone who is visiting South Korea.
Here is a guide of things to do in Gyeongju.
Hwangnam-dong- Let’s just say you’re able to kill many birds with one stone here. This area offers Hanok hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shopping. It’s better to park your car and walk around because you can get stuck in standing traffic. You can watch locals and experience floor sitting restaurants with nice views, try local treats, and go shopping at local stores all within a few blocks.
Cheomseongdae Observatory – What was used to study stars and weather during Queen Seon-deok’s reign is now Korea’s oldest surviving observatory in Asia. Korea’s 31st national treasure is located in a park and is a main tourist destination in Gyeongju. You can see families flying kites and couples taking pictures. It’s free to the public and also offers a virtual room tour where you can experience how stars were studied during the Silla era.
Starbucks – Sitting across the street from Cheomseongdae Observatory is a pink Hanok Starbucks. Just like the city it resides in, this Starbucks merges contemporary with tradition. Furnished with majority wooden chairs the Starbucks was designed with special floor sitting tables where you can enjoy your latte the traditional way.
Gyeongju Gyerim Forest- a 3-minute walk from Cheomseongdae Observatory. The forest may remind you of a scene from the movie Sleepy Hollow with its curvy willow and zelkova trees. But don’t be alarmed you won’t catch any headless horseman in these woods. Instead, you may hear of the interesting myth involving a golden egg, a roster, and the founder of the Gyeongju Kim clan.
Gyochon Traditional Village- named after a wealthy family known as the Gyeongju Choi Clan. This close-knit village not only offers you a taste of what life was like during the Choi Clan’s era but you can also enjoy archery, pitch pot referred to as (Tu-ho) in Korean, rice juice called Sikhye (sik-hey), and traditional restaurants.
Woljeonggyo Bridge- originally built during the 19th year reign of King Gyeongdeok but was later destroyed. This now reconstructed bridge stands across the street from the Gyochon Traditional Village. It has become the photo-op place and dating course. You can walk on the bridge and gaze out at the stream that passes under or admire the well-lit bridge at night.
Tumuli at Daereungwon Tomb Complex + Cheomachong Tomb- Surrounded by royal tombs of kings and queens is the Cheomachong tomb. Inside this exhibit, you have the opportunity to view what an ancient coffin belonging to an upper-class resident of the Silla dynasty looks like. The rest of the tomb complex consists of grassy tombs and numerous photo opportunities with friends and family.
All of these attractions are within walking or bike riding distance.
Lastly, is the Bomun Tourist Complex that is a bus or car ride away.
Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park offers virtual media art, historic art, interactive games, performances, a fossil museum, and scenic gardens. But the main tourist attraction is the Gyeongju Tower. Inspired by the nine-story pagoda of Hwangnyongsa Temple that mirrors a few miles away at a distant view.
Gyeongju World Amusement Park- the largest theme park in the southern area of Korea.
Wooyang Museum of Contemporary Art- offers international exhibits for all ages.
There are so many attractions in Gyeongju and the list keeps growing. I wasn’t able to visit them all but here are some additional attractions you can visit on your trip to Gyeongju
Donggung Gwa Wolji Pond , Seokguram, Bulguksa , Gyeongju National Museum,Gyeongju East Palace Garden
Fried Greentea from Noka Cafe Bolgogi (Korean Beef) from 황리단또바기