12 Best Places to Visit in Gyeongju This Summer: Discover the Cool Charm of the Ancient Capital
Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, is a captivating destination even in the summer. We've carefully selected Gyeongju's top attractions where you can stay cool and enjoy your visit, even in the hot summer weather. Create unforgettable summer memories in Gyeongju, where history, nature, and exciting experiences come together!
1. Bulguksa Temple - A Thousand-Year-Old Temple in a Cool Forest
Bulguksa Temple, a must-visit on any Gyeongju itinerary, is especially enchanting in summer. Surrounded by a lush forest, the temple acts as a natural air conditioner. Visit early in the morning to soak in the refreshing air and tranquil atmosphere.
Summer Tip: Visit before 9 AM. The sound of the stream helps to beat the heat.
2. Seokguram Grotto - Cool Breeze at the Mountain Peak
Located near the peak of Mount Tohamsan at an altitude of 565m, Seokguram Grotto offers a cool breeze even in summer. Admire the serene smile of the main Buddha statue and forget the heat.
Summer Tip: The hiking trail can be hot, so consider taking the shuttle bus. Visiting around sunrise is even cooler.
3. Cheomseongdae Observatory - An Observatory Beautiful at Night
Cheomseongdae, an ancient astronomical observatory of the Silla Kingdom, is more captivating in the evening than during the day. Feel the thousand-year history while enjoying the cool summer breeze at night. It's perfect for an evening stroll with the nearby Daereungwon Tomb Complex.
Summer Tip: Visit after sunset when the illuminated Cheomseongdae is truly magical.
4. Anapji Pond (Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond) - A Festival of Lotuses on Summer Nights
Anapji Pond is most beautiful in summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. Especially in the evening, the reflection of the pavilion on the pond and the subtle fragrance of lotuses will make you forget the summer heat.
Summer Tip: Visit around 6-8 PM. July and August are the best months.
5. Gyeongju National Museum - A Cool Indoor Cultural Space
During the hot summer, the air-conditioned Gyeongju National Museum is the perfect escape. Coolly admire the cultural heritage of the Silla Kingdom, and be sure to see the gold crown and artifacts excavated from the Cheonmachong Tomb.
Summer Tip: A great place to escape the heat in the afternoon. Admission is free.
6. Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park - A Popular Family Outing Destination
With its vast grounds, diverse activity facilities, and shady rest areas, Expo Park is perfect for a summer family trip. Water play facilities and cool indoor exhibition halls are also available.
Summer Tip: Prepare water play supplies and visit in the morning or evening.
7. Hamwolsan Yongyeon Waterfall - A Hidden Gem of a Cool Valley
Hamwolsan (含月山, Mountain Embracing the Moon) belongs to the Tohamsan district of Gyeongju National Park, and Yongyeon Waterfall is a representative attraction of Hamwolsan. It is a two-tiered waterfall with a height of 20m and a diameter of 20m. Legend has it that King Sinmun threw the jade belt he received from the Dragon King (King Munmu) into the water, and it became a dragon and went up, creating the waterfall. In summer, the cool valley water and lush forest act as natural air conditioning, and the Yongyeon Waterfall area is designated as a special national park area because *Dukjunggae* (Korean Bullhead) class 2 endangered species live there.
Summer Tip: We recommend the 'King's Road' trekking course starting from Girimsa Temple. Visiting early in the morning is cooler and more pleasant.
8. Hwangnidan-gil Road - Gyeongju's Hottest Spot
Hwangnidan-gil Road, the area around Hwangnam-dong and Sajeong-dong on both sides of the road from Naenam four-way intersection to Hwangnam Elementary School four-way intersection, is the youngest road in Gyeongju. It is very popular with young travelers as it is home to atmospheric cafes, cute props, souvenir shops, and unique restaurants. In summer, you can relax in a cool indoor cafe and feel the modern charm of Gyeongju.
Summer Tip: There are many indoor cafes, so it's a good place to escape the heat. Weekends are crowded, so we recommend weekdays or evenings.
9. Royal Tomb of King Munmu - Cool Sea Breeze at the Underwater Tomb
Located in the East Sea, the Royal Tomb of King Munmu blows away the summer heat with its cool sea breeze and the sound of the waves. It is even better when enjoyed with a drive along the surrounding coastal road.
Summer Tip: We recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset. It is a 5-minute walk from the parking lot.
10. Yangdong Village - Cool Shade of Traditional Korean Houses
Yangdong Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has the eaves of traditional Korean houses that act as natural air conditioners. Enjoy a cup of traditional tea in the tranquil village atmosphere and cool shade.
Summer Tip: We recommend a tour with a village commentator. Traditional experience programs are also available.
11. Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond Bird Park - The Perfect Choice for Indoor Experience
Located at the entrance of the Bomun Tourist Complex, Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond was created in 2013 as a four-season theme tourism facility, inspired by the story of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond in the Samguk Yusa. In particular, Bird Park is the perfect place to escape the summer heat, as you can interact with various birds indoors with air conditioning. The feeding experience where you can interact with birds is popular, and it is even better to visit with Donggung Botanical Garden.
Summer Tip: Bird Park hours are 10:00-19:00, Donggung Botanical Garden 09:30-19:00. If you purchase a combined ticket, you can visit both places for an additional KRW 1,000.
12. Gyeongju Luge World - Thrilling Activities and Panoramic Views
Gyeongju Luge World has a total length of 3 km with two courses: Hwarang Course (1.6 km) and Cheonma Course (1.4 km). You can comfortably see the lush forest and the panoramic view of the Bomun Tourist Complex and Bomun Lake by taking the lift, and in summer you can enjoy a thrilling experience with the cool mountain breeze. It takes about 10 minutes to complete the course.
Summer Tip: We recommend visiting in the morning or evening. Get a discount when booking online. Children under 85cm tall cannot ride.
Gyeongju Summer Travel Packing Checklist
Essentials: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, plenty of water
Clothing: Breathable clothes, comfortable sneakers, thin outerwear (for indoors)
Other: Portable fan, cool arm sleeves, camera
Summer Gyeongju Travel Tips
- Visit outdoor tourist attractions early in the morning or in the evening
- Utilize indoor tourist attractions during the hottest part of the day
- Drink plenty of fluids and rest frequently in the shade
- Actively use public transportation (Gyeongju City Tour Bus recommended)
Recommended 2-Night, 3-Day Summer Gyeongju Itinerary
- Day 1: Bulguksa Temple → Seokguram Grotto → Gyeongju National Museum → Hwangnidan-gil Cafe Tour
- Day 2: Cheomseongdae → Daereungwon Tomb Complex → Anapji Pond → Hamwolsan Yongyeon Waterfall → Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond Bird Park
- Day 3: Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park → Luge World → Yangdong Village → Royal Tomb of King Munmu
Gyeongju is beautiful in all seasons, but in summer, you can experience its unique charm where nature and history harmonize. Create special memories this summer with a trip to Gyeongju in search of cool shade and breeze!
Have a pleasant trip to Gyeongju! ✈️
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