Historic places in Gyeongju

Historic places in Gyeongju

1. See

   Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

   동궁과 월지

   The artificial Anapji pond was created by King Munmu in 674. The pavilions on its banks were destroyed by fire and fell into the pond in 935. Archeological finds from the pond can be seen in the National Museum today. The pond is covered from late July to early August with blooming lotus flowers. In the middle stands a pavilion, which can be reached via steps. This place is popular with wedding couples who want to be photographed in the middle of the flower spectacle. Anapji has been renamed "Donggung and Wolji" since 2011. According to a Korean history book called the Three Kingdoms Saga, the pond, Wolji, was created in the 14th year of King Munmu (674), and Donggung was built in 679, after the unification of the Three Kingdoms was completed. Donggung and Wolji is one of the most beautiful place in Gyeongju. They are decorated with many lights. It will be good choice, if visit here in the night.

2. See

   Golgulsa Temple

   골굴사

   20 km east of the ancient Silla Dynasty capital city of Gyeongju in Southeastern Korea. In the Golgulsa temple area can be found the oldest historical Buddhist ruins on Mt. Hamwol and the only cave temple in Korea. The original temple was built out of solid rock during the 6th century by Saint Kwang Yoo and his companions, Buddhist monks from India. This temple contains a sculptured Maya Tathagata Buddha (Buddha was known as the “Tathagata”; his mother was “Maya Devi”) and twelve rock caves. You can enjoy Temple Stay in Golgulsa.

   09:00 – 17:00·Free

3. See

   Gyeongju Donggung Garden

   경주 동궁원

   A large-scale botanical garden and bird park inspired by Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. It features a massive glass greenhouse with subtropical plants and a bird park where visitors can interact with various species. It is a very popular spot for families.

   Closed · opens 9:30 am·₩5,000 (Bird Park separate)

4. Buy

   Gyeongju Jungang Market

   중앙시장

   It is the market with the longest history among urban markets, and stores in commercial buildings operate every day and the five-day market enters around the commercial building every day ending on the 2nd and 7th.

5. See

   Hwangnyongsa

   황룡사

   Located east of downtown, these temple ruins of 66,0002 are among the largest in Asia. In 553 King Jinheung planned to build a palace here, however as he heard rumors that a yellow dragon had been seen there, he decided to make a temple here. It was completed in 645. The most important things here were a nine-level wooden pagoda and a golden five meter high statue of Jangnyuksang. The temple was destroyed by Mongol invaders in 1238 and now only the ruins of it remains, including two pillars which are named Dangganjiju — "the flag poles".

   09:00 to 18:00 (11:00-19:00 on weekends/public holidays during peak April-October)·Free

6. See

   Hwangnyongsa History and Culture Center

   황룡사 역사문화관

   This center features a 1/10 scale model of the legendary nine-story wooden pagoda and a 3D theater showing its history. A great place to understand the scale of the original temple.

   Closed · opens 9 am·₩3,000

7. Do

   Namsan mountain

   남산

   This historically and spiritually significant mountain only 5min south of the central city is littered with historical Buddha reliefs carved into its rocks and boulders as well as dotted with ancient pagodas and temples. A hike up the mountain (466 m) through its western valley from the Samneung tomb site is recommended.

   Open year-round, 24 hours·Free

8. Do

   Silla Millenium Park

   신라밀레니엄공원

   Silla Millennium Park is a large theme park in Gyeongju dedicated to recreating the culture and history of the Silla Dynasty. The park features life-sized replicas of Silla palaces, traditional craft workshops, and live performances such as historical reenactments and martial arts shows. Visitors can explore cultural exhibits, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and experience interactive programs highlighting Silla’s rich heritage. The park has also served as a filming location for popular Korean dramas, making it a unique blend of entertainment and cultural education.

   Mon-Fri 10:00-21, Sat Sun 10:00-14:00·Adult ₩18,000, teenager ₩15,000, child ₩12,000

9. Do

   Tumuli Park

   대릉원

   Tumuli Park, also known as the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, is a historical park in Gyeongju featuring large grassy burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – AD 935). Within the park are over 20 royal tombs, including the famous Cheonmachong (“Heavenly Horse Tomb”), which is open to the public and displays artifacts discovered inside. The park offers a peaceful setting with walking paths surrounded by pine trees and provides insight into the royal culture and traditions of ancient Korea.

   09:00 – 22:00 (last admission 21:30)·Adult ₩3,000, teenager ₩2,000, child ₩1,000

10. See

    Wolseong

    월성, Banwolseong(반월성, crescent moon fortress)

    This was a palace of the Silla kingdom, and is today a lovely park with some ruins. It contains the 'Seokbinggo' or 'Stone Ice House' built in 1738 for the preservation of food. It looks something like a grave mound (of which there are many in the area).

11. Do

    Wolseong Park

    월성지

    Wolseong Park, also called Banwolseong or “Half-Moon Fortress,” is the former site of the Silla royal palace in Gyeongju. Although the earthen fortress walls remain, the area is now a large grassy park featuring historical relics and scenic walking paths. Archaeological excavations have uncovered palace foundations, ponds, and artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, providing valuable insight into Korea’s ancient royal culture. Today, the park is a peaceful site popular for strolling, photography, and exploring nearby landmarks such as Cheomseongdae Observatory and Anapji Pond.

    Open year-round, 24 hours·Free

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Gyeongju (CC BY-SA 4.0).