It is not an exaggeration to call the entirety of Gyeongju a museum for the countless numbers of cultural artifacts and remains spread throughout this city; it is often the destination for student’s history field trips. While it is true that the city has much to offer in the way of education, these days instead of being seen as simply a historical city, Gyeongju is gaining popularity among all groups as an exciting travel location. Perhaps the most popular view of Gyeongju is at night, when the path around the historic relics is lit by the romantic moonlight. Ideal for making charming memories. As the ancient relics were making entirely part of Gyeongju, UNESCO has taken the decision to name the entire city as a world cultural heritage. That is the reason why we call it “museum without walls,” as it portrays an open sky museum.
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond and Cheomseongdae Observatory are basic course for visitors.. These two neighboring attractions show off the brilliant night view. During summer time July to August nearby garden is full of attracting scent of Lotus flower.
Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
Donggung Palace served as the living quarters of the crown prince of Silla. In modern times, this detached palace and Wolji Pond are considered Gyeongju’s most attractive night scene. Appreciate the beautiful city of Gyeongju, especially with a nice slow walk after sunset when the lights come on.
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
- Address: 102, Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Operating hours: 09:00-22:00 (Last admission at 21:30)
- Admission: 2,000 won
Cheomseongdae Observatory
Cheomseongdae Observatory is the oldest astronomical observatory in East. It is very popular at night and many visit this place to see the nearby lotus flower area every summer. The night walking course wouldn’t be complete without heading to Cheomseongdae Observatory to the west of Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond. This astronomical observatory was built in the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – AD 935). With a height of only 9.17m, exactly 365 stones composes the tower to represent the number of days in a year.
Cheomseongdae Observatory
• Address: 169-5, Cheomseong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Operating hours: Summer 09:00~22:00 / Winter 09:00~21:00
Lotus flower complex
During July to August, you will be able to see Lotus Flower covering Gyeongju. Just like Lotus flower leaves layer upon layer, big and small mountains surrounds Gyeongju city. Among several flower complex, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond is the biggest complex. From the ticket box, walk 300m to west side you can arrive the magnificent Flower field. No less than 4milion 8000㎡ area, full of various kinds of Lotus. During the season, many photographers visit here to take pictures. Enjoy the delicate scent of Lotus. In the day time Lotus flower burst into bloom, in the night time flower changing into buds. So, if you want to enjoy bloom, it is suitable for you to visit during 10am to 12pm.
Read more about Gyeongju:
Gyeongju City: Between Past and Present
Gyeongju Yangdong Village [UNESCO World Heritage]: turning a hundred years back
Gyeongju – The UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Check our Gyeongju One Day Tour – The Museum Without Walls tour if you’re interest.
Other private tours from Seoul to Gyeongju:
Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Spring Tour
Check our main website for the largest selection of Korea Private Tours
