7 Best Sights in Gyeongju, Side Trips from Busan

One of the most prominent museums in the country, Gyeongju National Museum is dedicated to the art, history, and treasures of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC–AD 935), with weapons, armor, clothing, pottery, statues, royal crowns, and more on display.  An hour or so browsing its exhibits will give you a deeper appreciation of the civilization that once called Gyeongju its capital. If you really want to understand the Silla period, this should be your first stop in town.

Situated on the slopes of Toham mountain, Bulguksa is one of South Korea's greatest temples, classified not only as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the nation's Historic and Scenic Site No. 1. The complex is a precious piece of national heritage with its pagodas, traditional wooden buildings, and stone terraces, and as a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, it's also a functioning place of worship and meditation, as well as one of the hosts of the country's temple stay program.

Located in the larger Bulguksa complex, the Seokguram Grotto is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. This hermitage overlooking the East Sea features some of the finest examples of Buddhist sculptures in the world. The detail of artistry—plus the grotto's sweeping ocean views—will imbue you with tranquility while also taking your breath away.

Though perhaps a bit underwhelming at first, this 9-m-high (30 feet) stone tower takes on more weight when you consider its historical context. Constructed in the 7th century, it's Asia's oldest surviving astronomical observatory, making it one of Korea's great scientific contributions to the world. It's worth a visit just to see the obvious pride the town takes in this marvel. Notice the numerical symbolism: the tower's 362 granite blocks are said to represent each day of the lunar year.

This expansive, tranquil park is home to scores of royal burial mounds, including the famed Cheonmachong Tomb. Excavated in 1973, this resting place of an unknown Silla king features a wooden coffin in the center. More than 11,500 artifacts were discovered in the tomb, making this one of Gyeongju's greatest treasures. Cheonmachong's name, which means roughly "sky horse tomb" refers to a painting of a white horse found during the site's excavation.

Built by order of King Munmu of Silla in 674 AD, Donggung is more of a large pavilion than a palace, overlooking the serene waters of Wolji Pond. It's a lovely place to take a relaxing stroll, and really comes alive at night when the site is lit up in dramatic fashion.

This ornate covered bridge dates back to the Silla period but was destroyed long ago during the Joseon dynasty and only recently rebuilt. Like other Gyeongju sights, it's lit up beautifully at night casting reflections on the river, making it a great place to stroll.

Dating back to the Joseon Dynasty period (16th century), this village is home to more than 160 traditional homes. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you wander among its placid lanes. Nestled between the Hyeongsang River and the rise of Seolchang mountain, Yangdong radiates history in the midst of an idyllic natural setting. Despite its movie-set quaintness, this is a real, lived-in village, where the people are known for their generosity and kindness.   Yangdong is located 50 minutes outside of Gyeongju by bus, accessible from Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal on buses 200 to 208, 212, and 217.