The Best Things to Do in Gyeongju

Gyeongju is commonly referred to as the roofless museum of Korea. The ancient capital of Silla has a lot to offer. From historical sites to natural wonders, the possibilities are endless. But, today I will be focusing on the trendist places to hangout in Gyeongju.

Gyeongju Expo Park: Culture Lovers

The most famous park in Gyeongju is Expo Park. Expo Park is divided into 20 zones including themed gardens, exhibition halls, performing arts ,centers, and museums. Moreover, some of the sites within the park are considered symbols of Gyeongju.

It takes lots of time to explore the whole park, so it may take multiple visits to explore it in its entirety. I chose visit the light art exhibition called Timeless Media Art and stop by Gyeongju Tower.

Timeless Media Art: Playing with Light and Music

If you are someone who loves art, then this exhibition focusing on music and light will bring you a lot of pleasant surprises. Each area of Timeless Media Art has its own theme. It will be sure to keep you on your toes. But, it won’t only be thanks to the magic light and beautiful melody. Flowers bloom on the walls with each step you take and each touch of your hand. Don’t blame me for spoiling!

Gyeongju Tower

Gyeongju Tower is a symbol of Gyeongju. At 82m high, it’s pretty hard to miss. The glass-frame elevator lifts you up to the highest floor, and you will have a panorama view. Or, you can test your bravery on the skywalk. At the tower’s observation area, we can get the whole view of this area.

Here, people can also watch a short film about the ancient city of Silla. In that short film, you will be attracted by the red tower at the center, and at the end of the movie, when the projection screen is pulled up, the remaining of that ancient red tower will appear below, in front of your eyes. I felt completely awestruck as the reminants of such an amazing society was revealed before my eyes.

Gyeongju Expo Park(경주세계문화엑스포)

Address:   614 Gyeonggam-ro, Gyeongju World Culture Expo Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk-do
Korean Address:  경북 경주시 경감로 614

Gyeongju World Theme Park: Thrill Seekers

Gyeongju World Theme Park is known as the Everland of Gyeongju. Although it’s not as large as Everland, Gyeongju world Theme Park also has a lot of advetureous things to do for both adults and for children, or gentle games suitable for the faint of heart.

When it comes to adventure games, it is impossible not to mention Gyeongju World Theme Park’s best rides:

Draken: The world’s 6th largest, super-fast, 90-degree, and submersible rollar coaster. It is the first ride in Korea todescend 90 degrees vertically from a height of 62m.

Klake: The rollercoaster rotates 360 degrees. You can enjoy the feeling of somersaulting from side to side and hanging upside down.

Mega Drop: The rollercoaster left me with the feeling of an exhilarating heart. I rose up slowly until it felt like I could touch the sky, then it felt like my heart dropped out of my body as I fell from a height of 70m.

Besides the rollar coasters, the theme park also has children’s games and light rides such as merry-go -rounds and a tram ride that are suitable for everyone. Plus, if you are photography lover, this place is also suitable for just a day out with your camera.

Gyeongju World Theme Park

Address:    544, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Korean Address:  경북 경주시 보문로 544
Operating Hours: 09:50 AM - 08:00 PM

Hwangnidan Road: Foodies

You simply can’t come to Gyeongju without visiting Hwangnidan road. Especially, if you are a foodie, you HAVE TO visit. This street is filled with lovely coffee shops, delicious restaurants, and boutiques. While there are food streets all over the country, Hwangnidan road is special. It has a unique blend of modern and traditional features that really can’t be found anywhere else.

If you want to take good photos and find your new favorite restaurant or coffee shop, come here early and walk around. Restaurants usually open at 10am or 11am. Coming at around 10 o’clock, you will see that it’s not too crowded. But, if you come later, you might not be so lucky. You can go around to explore the area, not only the main street but also the small alleys that contain many interesting things.

For myself, I wandered around the place for about two and a half hours. However, it wasn’t enough. There are still many small alleys that I have not discovered yet. If I have the opportunity to go to Gyeongju again, Hwangnidan road will be my first stop!

Hwangnidan Road (황리단길)

Address:   Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju-si, Hwangnam-dong, Poseok-ro
Korean Address:  경북 경주시 포석로 1080

Looking for things to do in Gyeongju at night? Click Here to read all about some of the best night tourism spots in Gyeongju!