An unfiltered guide to Gyeongju-Si (Ancient Capital of Silla Dynasty)
There’s something enchanting about autumn in Gyeongju. The air carries a crispness that invigorates, and the city’s already picturesque landscapes transform into a symphony of reds, oranges, and golds. For a history lover like me, the season amplified the charm of this ancient city, creating an unforgettable backdrop for exploring its rich past.
Over five days and four nights, I wandered through Korea’s “Museum Without Walls,” immersed myself in centuries-old stories, and enjoyed the seasonal beauty of a city that feels like it’s suspended in time.
Day 1: Arrival in the City of Gold
I boarded the KTX bullet train from Seoul early in the morning. Booking through RailNinja was straightforward, and for SGD 140 round trip, I felt the comfort and speed were worth every penny. The ride took just 2 hours and 25 minutes, and as we sped through Korea’s countryside, I started noticing the vibrant autumn hues—fields of gold and trees ablaze with crimson.
Arriving in Gyeongju felt like stepping into another world. The city greeted me with its calm and charm, free of the towering buildings and busy streets that define Seoul and Busan. My home base for the trip was Gyeongju Park Tourist Hotel, an excellent choice for its central location and warm hospitality.
Please do ignore the messy state of the room (I had a good rest 😵) after a long day hahaha.
After rest up and putting my stuffs at the hotel. I strolled through the neighborhood. The gentle rustle of fallen leaves underfoot and the cool autumn breeze set the perfect tone for the days ahead, visited the Jungang market as it is very near to the hotel but most of the shop were closed...
I did, however, buy two Samsung Bude FE from the nearby Samsung store. It is so much cheaper than buying in Singapore, I got it at 86 SGD!
Day 2: The Stars and the Seasons at Cheomseongdae
My first full day began with a visit to Cheomseongdae Observatory, an iconic structure that dates back to the 7th century Silla Dynasty. As I approached the observatory, the autumn colors surrounding it took my breath away. Bright yellow ginkgo trees and fiery red maples framed the ancient stone tower, creating a scene straight out of a painting.
Cheomseongdae is the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in East Asia, and standing before it, I couldn’t help but imagine the Silla astronomers gazing at the stars centuries ago. The observatory’s symmetrical design is simple yet profound—a testament to the advanced understanding of its creators.
Unfortunately, the stars are no longer visible at the same spot under the same night sky due to light pollution....
Day 3: The Legacy of the Silla Kings
On my third day, I visited the Gyeongju National Museum - free entry for all, which felt like stepping into the golden age of the Silla Dynasty. The museum’s collection is a treasure chest of history—gold crowns adorned with intricate patterns, delicate pottery, and Buddhist relics that spoke of a deeply spiritual culture.
One of the most striking pieces was the Bell of King Seongdeok (Right ouside of the Museum) - . As the sunlight streamed through the windows, the bell’s intricate carvings seemed to glow, and I could almost hear its legendary deep tone echoing across the land.
Later, I explored the museum’s outdoor exhibits, where the autumn scenery added a poetic touch. The massive stone pagodas and statues looked even more majestic against the fiery foliage.
Day 4: A Walk Through Time at Daereungwon
Day four brought me to the Daereungwon Tomb Complex - free entry for all, where grassy mounds hide the resting places of Silla royalty. In autumn, the tombs take on an ethereal beauty. The rust-colored leaves blanketing the ground and the crisp, cool air made it feel like I was walking through a dream.
The view from the small hill, overlooking the city was breathtaking... Having living in a city since I was a kid, this is not an everyday view for me.
Day 5: Farewell to a Timeless City
My final morning in Gyeongju was bittersweet. I spent it walking along the quieter streets, letting the autumn ambiance sink in one last time. I found a charming tea house where I enjoyed hodu-gwaja (walnut cookies) and a steaming cup of green tea.
As I boarded the KTX back to Seoul, I found myself gazing out at the autumn landscapes, already planning my next visit to Busan and Gyeongju.
Food! Top few places to try when you are at Gyeongju!
1) ㅎㅕㄱ1 (Near or at Pseok-ro 1079 beon-gil)
Located at the small alley nestled with lots of good food, this was the first restaurant I tried, it was not as crowded as other places. I wanted to try at a popular place but the queue was long...
I was hesitant and did not have a high expectation but this place has exceeded my expectation. Frankly, the prices were on the higher side but the food were really good (for the one I tried).
I ordered Salmon (Aburi), the salmon with the combination of the eggyolk created a fantastic dish that melt in your mouth. Finished everything, even the salad, and I not a salad lover!
2) Same street the above restaurant (Not sure about the name and exact location)
Why Autumn is the Best Time to Visit Gyeongju
For history lovers, Gyeongju is a year-round treasure, but in autumn, it becomes truly magical. The season adds a layer of beauty and nostalgia to the city’s historic sites, making each moment feel like a scene from an epic tale.
Travel Tips for Gyeongju in Autumn:
- Plan Ahead: Book your KTX tickets early through RailNinja for a smooth journey.
- Dress in Layers: The days are warm enough for walking, but the evenings can get chilly.
- Take Your Time: Gyeongju’s beauty lies in its tranquility, so don’t rush your visits.
- Random Cafes: What I love about visiting Korea is the random cafe that I could find in any corner, never had a bad cake too.
Gyeongju, with its golden history and golden leaves, left me captivated. It’s a place where the past feels present and every step unveils a story waiting to be told. For anyone who loves history, or simply wants to experience Korea in a different light, Gyeongju in autumn is an unmissable destination.
Do you have a favorite spot, a hidden gem, or a restaurant I shouldn’t miss the next time I visit? Share your recommendations in the comments—I’d love to hear them!