“The Museum Without Walls”
UNESCO World Heritage siteArchaeological site
A must-study for history enthusiasts, Gyeongju served as the capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly 1,000 years. The city holds a staggering concentration of Buddhist art, sculptures, ruined temples, and massive royal tumuli (burial mounds), providing profound insights into early Korean civilization. The best season to visit is spring (April) when cherry blossoms around the ancient tombs are in full bloom. Tourist tip: Rent a bicycle to navigate the flat landscape and easily hop between the scattered historical sites.