5 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Gyeongju, South Korea Travel Guide

There are places in the world

where time seems to breathe differently.
Gyeongju, once the heart of the Silla Kingdom,

is one of them.

As spring wraps the land

in soft petals and warm light,

this ancient city offers

more than just temples and tombs—

it invites you into a quieter rhythm.

For travelers from afar,

especially those looking to connect history, nature,

and soul in one journey, Gyeongju is not just a destination—

it’s a moment you take with you.

Here are 5 enchanting places in Gyeongju

that are perfect for

first-time visitors, photographers,

or those seeking beauty in simplicity.

1. Bulguksa Temple

Walking through the stone arches of Bulguksa feels like stepping into a sacred memory.
Nestled in the forested hills, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known not only for its deep spiritual roots, but also for the serenity that fills its courtyards.
As you walk past wooden pillars and hear the soft echo of temple bells, the scent of pine and incense seem to carry you further from the modern world.

Address: 385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Bus from Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal: Take Bus No. 10, 11, or 700 directly to Bulguksa Temple. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes.

Best photo spot: The stone stairway leading up to Daeungjeon Hall, especially in the morning light.

Nearby Restaurants: Bulguksa Garden, Lotus Flower House

Bulguksa Temple

 

2. Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond

At twilight, this pond becomes pure poetry.
Once a royal garden, Wolji Pond reflects the palace lights and cherry blossoms in a way that feels almost unreal.
The surface of the water, gently shimmering with reflections of ancient rooftops, creates a peaceful pause in your journey.
It’s a place that holds the quiet whispers of kings and the soft hush of moonlight.

Address: 102 Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

How to get there: From the terminal, take Bus No. 700 → Get off at Donggung & Wolji stop (approx. 25 min)

Best photo spot: Across the pond at sunset, when the palace reflects perfectly on the still water.

Nearby Restaurants: Gyeongju Gomtang, Hwangnam Bulgogi

Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond

 

3. Cheomseongdae Observatory

This small, elegant tower is Asia’s oldest surviving astronomical observatory.
But more than that—it’s a reminder of how our ancestors looked up, seeking stories in the stars.
Surrounded by open fields and flowers, Cheomseongdae is especially magical in spring, when yellow rapeseed and pink cherry blossoms dance around its ancient stones.

Address: 839-1 Inwang-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

How to get there: From the terminal, take Bus No. 60 → Get off at Cheomseongdae stop (approx. 15 min)

Best photo spot: Standing slightly off-center with a backdrop of spring flowers and blue sky.

Nearby Restaurants: Dosol Village, Chorok Namu Jeongwon

Cheomseongdae Observatory

 

4. Gyochon Hanok Village
& Gyeongju Hyanggyo

If you're dreaming of wandering through traditional Korean houses with tiled roofs and curved eaves, this is the place.
Gyochon Village is not just a historical site—it's alive with slow moments.
Walk along stone paths, hear the crunch of gravel, and peek into wooden teahouses.
Next door, Gyeongju Hyanggyo (a Confucian school) rests under giant ginkgo trees, their golden leaves carpeting the ground in fall.

Address: 9 Gyochon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

How to get there: From the terminal, take Bus No. 60 or 61 → Get off at Gyochon Village stop (approx. 20 min)

Best photo spot: Under the ginkgo trees near the traditional wooden gate of the Hyanggyo.

Nearby Restaurants: Gyochon Hanok Restaurant, Hwangnam Bread Cafe

Gyochon Hanok Village

Gyeongju Hyanggyo

 

5. Bomun Lake
Cherry Blossom Road

When spring arrives in Gyeongju, Bomun Lake becomes a dream of pink.
Rows of cherry trees stretch along the lake’s path, creating a petal-filled tunnel where people walk slowly, often hand in hand.
Cycling here, or simply sitting by the water as the blossoms fall like snow, brings a sense of peace that only spring can offer.

Address: 150-1 Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

How to get there: From the terminal, take Bus No. 10 or 18 → Get off at Bomun Tourist Complex stop (approx. 25 min)

Best photo spot: The curved road along the lake with cherry blossoms arching above.

Nearby Restaurants: Sanmaru Cafe, Wolseong Korean Beef House

Bomun Lake Cherry Blossom Road

Bomun Lake

Gyeongju is more than a city—
It’s where history holds your hand,
and spring whispers in your ear.

If you ever find

yourself longing for a place

that blends nature, culture,

and calm in equal measure,
let this ancient city greet

you with blossoms, stories, and time

that flows a little slower.

Curious about anything,

or just want to say hello?

 

Leave a comment—

I’d be happy to chat with you.