Gyeongju Hotels
Historic Gyeongju
In ancient times, Korea was split into three distinct kingdoms, one of which was Silla. For over 1,000 years, Gyeongju was the capital of Silla. And here the history lesson should end, except that the past remains very relevant to Silla’s present, as its 250,000 residents are very proud of their town’s historical role. ... Read more »
The Royal Tombs are a stirring example of the respect the residents of Gyeongju have for their ancestors. Another must-see is the Cheomseongdae Observatory, which is the oldest observatory in Asia and, remarkably, remains in near-working order. Outside of town, Gyeongju National Park is a perfect country escape if you’ve had enough of the crowds.
Retaining its small town feel even as it grows, Gyeongju is perfect for budding Indiana Joneses, with new archaeological sites being uncovered regularly. For a glimpse into ancient traditions and an intriguing culture, Gyeongju is well worth a look.
GYEONGJU’S TOP 10
10. Bunhwangsa Temple Deemed a national treasure, this decaying temple is a favourite of locals, but is not the most impressive in the region. |
5. Daerungwon Large tombs of ancient kings and noblemen. May smell a bit like death, but is interesting nonetheless. |
9. Bomun Resort A resort complex built upon the ruins of an ancient castle. Aimed primarily at domestic tourists, it provides an interesting peek into the modern South Korean psyche. |
4. Anapji Pond Designed and built over 1,500 years ago, the Anapji Pond is within castle grounds and is most beautiful when lit up at night. |
8. Cheonmachong Tomb An exceptionally well-preserved burial chamber of an unknown king, with accompanying flourishes of gold and polished wood. |
3. Yangdong Folk Village Situated in a dense forest, there are over 160 thatched-roofed houses. The village takes you back to medieval Korea. |
7. Submerged Tomb of King Munmu Myth has it that this rocky islet is the tomb of a king who united three kingdoms into something resembling modern Korea. |
2. Seokguram This temple is situated in an underground cave. Be enlightened by the extraordinary Buddha statues. |
6. Silla Millennium Park An amusement park that teaches history sounds dull, but this actually works surprisingly well. |
1. Bulguksa Temple This World Heritage site is a complex of ancient stone pagodas and shrines. |
GYEONGJU EVENTS
March’s Korean Traditional Liquor and Cake Festival includes traditional music and dance extravaganzas, and is a really good excuse to pig out on local wine and sweets.
Just as the beautiful cherry blossoms begin to bloom, the notoriously difficult Cherry Blossom Marathon runs participants ragged in April.
Praising kids and their happiness, Children’s Day in May seems like a sneaky ploy by those miniature people to score more presents.
Chuseok is a mid-autumn festival celebrating ancestors. Koreans visit their hometowns to aid in receiving blessings for a good harvest.
WHEN TO GO
· June to September is the wettest time of year, with typhoons an issue in coastal regions.
· Autumn sees clear skies and enough residual summer warmth to make sightseeing a pleasure.
· Summer can be almost unbearable due to the heat and humidity.
GETTING AROUND
· Gyeongju is quite compact, so walking is a good option.
· The city’s bus system is very good, with regular services to the bigger ruins and temples.
HotelClub Blog
« Hide$49
- Overview
- Description
- Photos
- Map
- Amenities
170 - 1 Noseo Dong Gyeongsangbuk Do Gyeongju
Gyeongju Park Tourist Hotel Gyeongju is a cosy tourist-class hotel situated near the city centre. Popular attractions ... More hotel details
$71
- Overview
- Description
- Photos
- Map
- Amenities
410-2 Sinpyeong Dong Pomun Lake Gyeongsangbuk Do Gyeongju 780-290
Being an ideal place in the city of Gyeongju, the Commodore Hotel offers a warm welcome, pleasant ambience and conveni... More hotel details
Concorde Hotel Gyeongju
5 Stars$101
- Overview
- Description
- Photos
- Map
- Amenities
410 Shinpyong Dong Pomun Lake Gyeongju 780-290
Offering a good position, this property with comfortable accommodation and excellent services welcomes all types of ho... More hotel details
Hilton Hotel Gyeongju
5 Stars$147
- Overview
- Description
- Photos
- Map
- Amenities
370 Shinpyung Dong Gyeongju 780-290
Presenting quality accommodation and modern facilities in an inviting atmosphere, the Hilton Hotel Gyeongju is located... More hotel details
Kolon Hotel Gyeongju
5 Stars$70
- Overview
- Description
- Photos
- Map
- Amenities
111-1 Ma Dong Gyeongju 780-410
A place in which to work and enjoy, Kolon Hotel Gyeongju is designed for comfort and relaxation, equipped with every i... More hotel details
