1. Bulguksa Temple
1. Ticket Price:
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Adults: ₩6,000
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Teenagers (ages 13–18): ₩4,000
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Children (ages 7–12): ₩3,000
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Infants under 7: Free
2. Operation hours:
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March – September: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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October: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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November – January: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
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February: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
3. Highlights:
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UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in 774 AD during the Silla Dynasty
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Home to 7 National Treasures, including Seokgatap and Dabotap pagodas
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Famous stone bridges Yeonhwa and Cheongun, symbolic gateways to the temple
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Grand Daeungjeon Hall and colorful Buddhist architecture
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Seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, fiery foliage in autumn
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Temple Stay programs offering meditation and cultural immersion
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 20–25 minutes by car or 30–35 minutes by local bus (No. 10 or 11)
Bulguksa Temple – The Jewel of Silla Buddhism
Built in 774 AD during the Unified Silla period, Bulguksa Temple is one of Korea’s most iconic Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It represents the architectural and artistic pinnacle of the Silla Dynasty, blending harmony between nature, religion, and artistry.
The temple is home to seven National Treasures of Korea, including the stone pagodas Seokgatap and Dabotap, both celebrated for their elegant symmetry and intricate design. Other highlights include the Yeonhwa Bridge and Cheongun Bridge, symbolic stairways leading into the spiritual world, and the grand Daeungjeon Hall, which enshrines the Buddha.
Bulguksa’s serene atmosphere is amplified by its location on the slopes of Mt. Toham, surrounded by pine forests and seasonal blossoms. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the temple, while autumn brings fiery foliage, making it one of Korea’s most picturesque destinations.
Beyond its beauty, Bulguksa continues to be an active place of worship and spiritual practice. Visitors can also join Temple Stay programs, experiencing meditation, chanting, and tea ceremonies guided by monks.
2. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
1. Ticket Price:
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Adults: ₩3,000
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Teenagers (ages 13–18): ₩2,000
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Children (ages 7–12): ₩1,000
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Infants under 7: Free
2. Operation hours:
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Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last admission 9:30 PM)
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Evening visits are highly recommended for the illuminated night view
3. Highlights:
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Built in 674 AD during the Unified Silla Dynasty
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Former royal palace site for banquets and state events
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Stunning artificial pond with pavilions, islets, and gardens
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Famous illuminated night view with shimmering reflections
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Archaeological treasures displayed at Gyeongju National Museum
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Just minutes away from Gyeongju Station, easy to visit day or night
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes by local bus
Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond – Reflections of Ancient Silla
Originally built in 674 AD during the Unified Silla Dynasty, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond was once part of a grand palace complex used for banquets, royal gatherings, and official state events. Known as Anapji until its historical name was restored in 2011, this site beautifully reflects the cultural sophistication of Silla.
The highlight is Wolji Pond, an artificial pond designed with islets, pavilions, and landscaping that demonstrate the artistry of ancient Korean garden design. At night, the pavilions and trees are illuminated, casting shimmering reflections across the water—a scene often described as one of the most enchanting night views in Korea.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered thousands of artifacts, from roof tiles to pottery, many of which are preserved at the Gyeongju National Museum. These finds provide deep insights into the artistry and daily life of the Silla court.
Today, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond is both a cultural heritage site and a romantic destination. Strolling along the pond, visitors can experience the serene atmosphere, blending history, architecture, and nature in harmony.
3. Gyeongju National Museum
1. Ticket Price:
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Free admission (special exhibitions may have separate fees)
2. Operation hours:
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March – October: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended to 7:00 PM on weekends & holidays)
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November – February: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Closed on Mondays and January 1st
3. Highlights:
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Free admission with extensive permanent collections
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Sacred Bell of King Seongdeok (Emille Bell), a National Treasure
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Golden crowns, Buddhist statues, and relics of Silla’s royal culture
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Outdoor displays of stone pagodas, lanterns, and sculptures
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Multilingual guides and digital exhibition tools
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Peaceful landscaped grounds perfect for strolling
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 10 minutes by car or 15–20 minutes by local bus
Gyeongju National Museum – Gateway to the Silla Kingdom
Located in the heart of Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju National Museum is one of Korea’s most important cultural institutions. It offers visitors a chance to explore the grandeur and artistry of Silla, which ruled much of the Korean Peninsula for nearly 1,000 years.
The museum’s extensive collection includes National Treasures of Korea, such as the famous Emille Bell (Sacred Bell of King Seongdeok), exquisite golden crowns, Buddhist statues, pottery, and weaponry. These artifacts vividly showcase the spiritual, political, and artistic achievements of Silla civilization.
The museum grounds are spacious and beautifully landscaped, with outdoor exhibition areas featuring stone pagodas, lanterns, and statues. Seasonal flowers and shaded pathways make it a pleasant place for both education and leisure.
For history enthusiasts, the museum provides an engaging journey through Korea’s past. Multilingual displays and digital guides make it accessible to international visitors, offering a deeper understanding of Silla’s lasting legacy.
4. Daereungwon Tomb Complex
1. Ticket Price:
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Adults: ₩3,000
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Teenagers (ages 13–18): ₩2,000
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Children (ages 7–12): ₩1,000
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Infants under 7: Free
2. Operation hours:
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Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last admission 9:30 PM)
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Evening strolls offer a unique atmosphere with soft lighting
3. Highlights:
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Burial site of Silla kings and nobles, with 20+ ancient tombs
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Cheonmachong (Heavenly Horse Tomb) open to the public with replicas of treasures
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Iconic grass-covered mounds blending into Gyeongju’s landscape
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Seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, ginkgo trees in autumn
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Peaceful park atmosphere, perfect for walking and photography
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Just minutes from Gyeongju Station, very easy to access
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 5–10 minutes by car or taxi, or 20 minutes on foot
Daereungwon Tomb Complex – Resting Place of Silla Kings
The Daereungwon Tomb Complex is one of Gyeongju’s most iconic heritage sites, home to more than 20 large grass-covered burial mounds from the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD). These majestic mounds rise gently from the ground, blending seamlessly with the city’s natural landscape and creating a unique historical park.
The highlight is Cheonmachong (Heavenly Horse Tomb), one of the few tombs excavated and opened to the public. Inside, visitors can see replicas of Silla-era artifacts, including gold crowns, belts, and the famous “Heavenly Horse Painting” discovered on a birch bark saddle flap.
Walking through the park, visitors are surrounded by grassy mounds, tree-lined paths, and seasonal flowers—cherry blossoms in spring and golden ginkgo trees in autumn. The tranquil scenery makes it a popular spot not only for history enthusiasts but also for couples and families enjoying a peaceful stroll.
As both an archaeological treasure and a serene public park, Daereungwon offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Silla’s royal culture and the harmony between nature and history.
5. Seokguram Grotto
1. Ticket Price:
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Free admission
2. Operation hours:
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March – September: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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October: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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November – January: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
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February: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
3. Highlights:
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Free admission for all visitors
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Built in 774 AD, masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture
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UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Bulguksa Temple
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Iconic seated Buddha statue facing the East Sea
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Surrounding carvings of bodhisattvas, disciples, and guardians
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Innovative 8th-century stone construction techniques
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Sacred site blending spirituality, history, and natural beauty
4. Travel time from Busan Station:
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About 50 minutes by car or 1 hour by local bus
Seokguram Grotto – A Masterpiece of Buddhist Art
Built in 774 AD during the Unified Silla Dynasty, Seokguram Grotto is a stone temple nestled on the slopes of Mt. Toham. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Bulguksa Temple, representing the pinnacle of Silla-era Buddhist art and engineering.
At its heart lies a magnificent seated Buddha statue gazing serenely eastward toward the sea. The main chamber is designed with perfect symmetry, symbolizing the Buddhist cosmos. Surrounding the Buddha are intricate stone carvings of bodhisattvas, disciples, and guardians, each sculpted with extraordinary detail.
The grotto’s construction showcases advanced techniques, including precise stone fitting and architectural design that allows natural ventilation and humidity control—remarkable achievements for the 8th century.
Today, Seokguram is both a place of pilgrimage and a cultural treasure. Visitors cannot enter the inner chamber but can view the Buddha and carvings through protective glass, preserving this masterpiece for generations to come.
6. Hwanglidan-gil
1. Ticket Price:
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Free to explore (individual purchases at cafes, restaurants, and shops)
2. Operation hours:
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Street open all day
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Cafes/shops generally 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (hours vary by store)
3. Highlights:
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Trendy cultural street near Daereungwon Tomb Complex
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Hanok-style buildings renovated into cafes, restaurants, and shops
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Mix of tradition and modern design, perfect for photos
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Popular spot for young travelers and couples
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Great selection of coffee, desserts, and fusion dining
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Nighttime charm with softly illuminated hanok streets
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 5 minutes by car or 15–20 minutes on foot
Hwangridan-gil – Gyeongju’s Trendy Cultural Street
Hwangridan-gil, located near the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, is one of Gyeongju’s most vibrant cultural districts. The name playfully combines Hwangnam-dong (its location) and Gyeongridan-gil (a popular neighborhood in Seoul), reflecting its mix of tradition and trend.
The street is lined with renovated hanok-style buildings, many of which have been transformed into stylish cafes, craft shops, galleries, and restaurants. Walking along Hwangridan-gil, visitors can enjoy both the charm of traditional Korean architecture and the creativity of modern design.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the area is a hub for young travelers and locals alike. Visitors can savor artisanal coffee, Korean fusion dishes, and unique desserts, while also shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs. At night, the softly lit hanok buildings create a romantic and cozy atmosphere.
Hwangridan-gil perfectly blends Gyeongju’s historic ambiance with contemporary lifestyle culture, making it a must-visit for those who want to experience the city’s past and present in harmony.
7. Bomun Lake
1. Ticket Price:
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Free (certain activities like boat rides, water sports, or nearby attractions may have separate fees)
2. Operation hours:
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Open year-round, 24 hours
(Best enjoyed in the morning for calm views, or evenings for illuminated lakeside walks)
3. Highlights:
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Scenic man-made lake in the Bomun Tourist Complex
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Beautiful seasonal landscapes: cherry blossoms in spring, foliage in autumn
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Walking and cycling trails around the lake
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Boating and family-friendly leisure activities
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Surrounded by resorts, hotels, and lakeside cafes
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Romantic night views with illuminated lakeside paths
4. Travel time from Busan Station:
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About 20 minutes by car or 30–35 minutes by local bus
Bomun Lake – Gyeongju’s Scenic Resort Hub
Bomun Lake, located in the Bomun Tourist Complex, is one of Gyeongju’s most popular leisure and relaxation spots. The man-made lake is surrounded by resorts, hotels, cafes, bike paths, and seasonal gardens, making it a hub for both domestic and international travelers.
The lake is especially famous for its scenic walking and cycling trails, offering panoramic views of the water, mountains, and surrounding resorts. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the lake, creating one of the most photogenic spots in Korea. In autumn, colorful foliage reflects on the water, while summer and winter bring their own unique charms.
Visitors can enjoy boating, family-friendly leisure parks, and cultural performances hosted in the Bomun Complex. At night, lakeside cafes and illuminated paths create a romantic atmosphere, making it popular among couples.
Whether for a relaxing stroll, active cycling, or lakeside dining, Bomun Lake is a versatile destination where natural beauty and modern amenities come together.
8. Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village
1. Ticket Price:
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Free admission (fees apply for certain cultural programs or hands-on experiences)
2. Operation hours:
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Open year-round, typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Hours may vary for shops, restaurants, and cultural centers)
3. Highlights:
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Preserved hanok houses and the historic Choe Clan House
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Traditional Korean food and drinks, including gyodong beopju
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Hands-on cultural programs: hanbok experience, tea ceremonies, folk games
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Shops and galleries featuring local crafts and souvenirs
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Seasonal festivals and cultural events
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Scenic location near Woljeonggyo Bridge and other Gyeongju landmarks
4. Travel time from Gyeongju Station:
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About 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes by local bus
Gyochon Traditional Village – A Living Heritage of Silla and Joseon
Located near Woljeonggyo Bridge, Gyochon Traditional Village offers a unique chance to experience Korea’s cultural heritage up close. The area preserves traditional hanok (Korean houses) and is home to the Choe Clan House, where visitors can learn about one of Gyeongju’s most influential families.
Walking through the village, visitors encounter beautifully restored hanok buildings that now house craft shops, cultural experience centers, and restaurants serving Gyeongju’s specialties like gyodong beopju (traditional rice wine) and hanjeongsik (Korean set meal). The blend of history, architecture, and cuisine makes Gyochon a perfect place for immersive exploration.
The village is also a hub for cultural activities—such as hanbok wearing, traditional tea ceremonies, and folk games—allowing international visitors to connect personally with Korea’s traditions. Seasonal festivals and events add to the vibrant atmosphere.
With its combination of heritage, gastronomy, and hands-on experiences, Gyochon Traditional Village is both a cultural treasure and a lively destination for travelers of all ages.
9. Woljeonggyo Bridge
1. Ticket Price:
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Free admission
2. Operation hours:
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Open year-round, 24 hours
(Nighttime illumination from sunset until around 10:00 PM)
3. Highlights:
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Originally built in the 8th century during the Unified Silla Dynasty
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Meticulously reconstructed and reopened in 2018
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Grand two-tiered wooden bridge with colorful dancheong design
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Scenic views of Muncheon Stream and nearby heritage sites
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Stunning nighttime illumination with shimmering reflections
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Popular photo spot for both locals and international travelers
4. Travel time from Busan Station:
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About 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes by local bus
Woljeonggyo Bridge – Reconstructed Glory of the Silla Dynasty
Woljeonggyo Bridge, spanning the Muncheon Stream in Gyeongju, is one of Korea’s most beautiful traditional wooden bridges. Originally built in the 8th century during the Unified Silla period, it served as a symbolic gateway to the royal palace. Destroyed long ago, it was meticulously reconstructed and reopened to the public in 2018 after decades of research and restoration.
The bridge is renowned for its grandeur: a two-tiered wooden structure with colorful dancheong decorations, traditional tiled roofs, and pavilions at both ends. By day, visitors can admire its architectural elegance and take in scenic views of the river and surrounding historic sites.
At night, Woljeonggyo transforms into a breathtaking spectacle as the entire bridge is illuminated, its reflection shimmering on the water below. This makes it one of the most romantic evening destinations in Gyeongju, popular with photographers and couples.
Blending history, architecture, and atmosphere, Woljeonggyo Bridge is both a cultural treasure and a vibrant attraction for visitors seeking to experience the spirit of Silla.