Gyeongju is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea. It is often referred to as a "museum without walls" due to its numerous historical and cultural sites. Here's a suggested tour itinerary to explore this beautiful city:
Day 1: Start your day by visiting Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Korea's most famous temples. The temple complex features several buildings and pagodas, as well as beautiful gardens and statues. Be sure to check out the Seokgatap and Dabotap pagodas, which are considered some of the finest examples of traditional Korean architecture.
Next, head over to Seokguram Grotto, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country's most important Buddhist shrines. This stunning stone temple is located on Mt. Toham and features a large Buddha statue carved out of granite.
After lunch, take a stroll through Tumuli Park, which contains over 20 burial mounds from the Silla Dynasty. You can also visit the Cheomseongdae Observatory, an ancient astronomical observatory that dates back to the 7th century.
In the evening, explore the streets of Gyeongju's city center and sample some of the local street food, such as hotteok (a type of sweet pancake) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
Day 2: Head to Gyeongju National Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Silla Dynasty. The museum features a large collection of artifacts and exhibits, including the famous Cheomseongdae Sundial.
After lunch, visit the Gyeongju Historic Area, which includes several important historical sites such as the Gyeongju Fortress, Woljeong Bridge, and the Royal Tomb of King Taejong Muyeol. You can also take a leisurely bike ride around the area to see the sites.
In the evening, head to the Gyeongju Traditional Market to shop for souvenirs and sample more local food.
Day 3: On your final day in Gyeongju, take a day trip to the nearby Yangdong Folk Village, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This traditional village features over 150 traditional Korean houses and offers a glimpse into what life was like during the Joseon Dynasty.
After returning to Gyeongju, visit the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, which contains several royal tombs from the Silla Dynasty. Be sure to check out the famous Cheonmachong Tomb, which contains many precious artifacts and is open to visitors.
Finally, you can visit Hwangridan-gil which has become a hotspot recently as they offer lots of Korean style cafes, snacks and restaurants. Be sure to try the famous 10won Bread and the "Chewy" snack.
I have simplified the places as a "must visit places" for those who are visiting for the first time.
Cheomseongdae is the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia. Constructed during the reign of Queen Seon-deok (632-647), it was used for observing the stars in order to forecast the weather.
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond are a historical site located in Gyeongju, South Korea. Also known as Anapji Pond, it was originally built in the 7th century during the Silla Dynasty as a pleasure garden for the royal family.
The village consists of traditional Korean houses, known as hanok, which were built in the 19th century. The houses are made of wood and clay, with thatched roofs and intricate designs on the doors and windows.
Daereungwon Tomb Complex
Visitors to the complex can explore the tomb sites and learn more about the Silla Dynasty and its burial practices. Many of the tombs have been excavated, revealing a treasure trove of artifacts, including gold and silver jewelry, pottery, and weapons.
Seokguram
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in the country.
The temple was built during the 8th century by Kim Dae-seong, a Silla Dynasty official, and is known for its impressive stone-carved Buddha statue. The statue is located inside a grotto and is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist art.
Bulguksa Temple
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in the country.
The temple was first built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty but was destroyed during the Japanese invasion of Korea in the 16th century. It was later rebuilt during the Joseon Dynasty in the 18th century.
Hwangridan-gil
Hwangridan-gil is a popular street and it is known for its unique and trendy atmosphere and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, many of which offer handmade goods and locally sourced ingredients.
Gyeongju is a city with a rich history and culture, and this suggested itinerary will allow you to experience some of the best that it has to offer. Enjoy your trip!
For guidance and more information about the trip, you can send an email to contact@kocomfort.com
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