Private World Heritage Gyeongju Taxi Tour

Bulguksa Temple: Bulguksa Temple was first listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Seokgulam, Seoul Jongmyo Shrine, and Hapcheon Haeinsa Temple in 1995. In Korea, there may be some people who have never come to Gyeongju, but have visited Bulguksa and Seokguram. Both heritage sites are prime examples of the outstanding cultural heritage of both Gyeongju and Korea. One can appreciate people’s devotion to Buddhism in their use of the best building techniques and substantial resources that went into building the Bulguksa Temple. The Buddhist doctrine melds together with temple building to form an ideal arrangement.

Seokguram Grotto: Along with Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto was one of Korea's first UNESCO World Heritage sites listed in 1995. One particular tale featuring Bulguksa and Seokguram Grotto told in Samguk Yusa (History of the Three Kingdoms) describes a man called Kim Dae-sung who was reincarnated to build Seokbulsa (Seokguram Grotto) Temple for his parents in his previous life and for his parents in his present life. Seokguram Grotto is a cave Temple. It has a free-hanging dome that uses stone nails horizontally driven in between the stones to keep it balanced and stable. Seokguram Grotto was not the first cave temple in Korea. But most of them used small natural caves or carved rocks to form shrines. Seokguram Grotto, however, was designed and built using intricate geometry and architectural engineering unlike any other of its kind in Korea.

Cheonnyeon Forest Garden: Gyeongju Millennium Forest, also known as Cheonnyeon Forest, is a serene and scenic area located in Gyeongju, South Korea. This vast forest covers about 28 hectares and was established to commemorate the thousand-year history of the Silla Dynasty, which made Gyeongju its capital. The forest features various species of native trees, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to experience nature’s tranquility. It’s a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the changing colors of the seasons. The Millennium Forest serves as a beautiful blend of history and nature, offering both locals and tourists a chance to relax and reflect in an environment steeped in cultural significance.

Bunhwangsa Temple: Bunhwangsa Temple, located next to the ruins of Hwangnyongsa Temple in Gyeongju, was established in 634 during the Silla dynasty. Visitors can see cultural assets such as the Stone Brick Pagoda designated as a national treasure, and the Pedestal for the Stele of State Preceptor Hwajaeng registered as a Historic Site. Despite being a significant and ancient temple, much of it was lost during wars such as the Mongolia invasions and the Japanese invasions of Korea, leaving only a few buildings and temple grounds like Bogwangjeon Hall. Nearby, there is the Hwangnyongsa Museum.

Hwangnyongsa Temple History and Culture Center: The Hwangnyongsa History and Culture Center in Gyeongju is a museum dedicated to the history and cultural significance of the ancient Hwangnyongsa Temple, one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples during the Silla Dynasty. The center offers visitors a deep dive into the temple's architectural marvels, including detailed models of what the temple once looked like, as it was sadly destroyed during the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. Visitors can explore artifacts from the original temple site, see exhibits showcasing the history of Buddhism in Korea, and learn about the advanced construction techniques of the era. Through interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and reconstructed models, the center brings to life the grandeur of Hwangnyongsa and its role in Silla’s cultural and religious history.

Donggung and Wolji: Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, located in Gyeongju, is a must-visit site for history and culture enthusiasts. Originally a royal palace complex during the Silla Dynasty, it served as a residence for crown princes and a venue for important state events. The site is famous for its stunning evening views when the beautifully restored buildings are illuminated and reflected in the serene waters of Wolji Pond (formerly Anapji Pond), creating a magical and picturesque scene. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, learn about Silla's architectural brilliance, and view artifacts recovered from the pond, which provide insight into the sophistication of Silla’s culture. This site is an essential stop for anyone interested in Korea’s ancient history and is especially captivating at night due to the stunning reflections and peaceful atmosphere.

Kyochon Village: At Gyeongju Gyochon Village, visitors can see the House of the Gyeongju Choi Clan (Important Folklore Material No. 27) and try some Gyeongju Gyodong Beopju Liquor (Important Intangible Cultural Asset No. 86-3). The village centers around the Gyeongju Choi Clan, a family known to have maintained their wealth for over 12 generations, producing many important people. Visitors can learn about the lifestyle and spending habits that enabled the family to do this. The village is also home to the site of Yoseokgung, the house of Silla Princess Yoseok. Nearby attractions include Gyerim Forest, Naemulwangneung Royal Tomb, and Gyeongjuhyanggyo Local Confucian School.

Cheomseongdae: Cheomseongdae Observatory, constructed during the reign of Queen Seondeok (r. 632-647), is one of the landmark of Gyeongju. The observatory was built in a cylinder shape at approximately 9 meters in height. The observatory consists of 365 stones, symbolizing the number of days in a year. The rocks are piled in 27 layers symbolizing the 27th ruler, Queen Seondeok, and the days in a lunar month by adding the of two rock layers on top.

Daereungwon / Cheonmachong: Gyeongju Daereungwon Tomb Complex consists of five tombs, Ancient Tombs of Gyeongju Nodong-ri, Noseo-ri, Hwangnam-ri, Hwango-ri, and Inwang-ri. The tombs are distributed in Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, and are located in the Daereungwon area. Within Daereungwon Tomb Complex is Cheonmachong Tomb, which was excavated in 1973. Furthermore, Hwangnamdaechong Tomb was excavated between 1973 and 1975, and is a set of twin tombs belonging to a presumed married couple. Cheonmachong Tomb, excavated in 1973, has a height of 12.7 meters and a diameter of 50 meters. Its excavation unearthed many artifacts, such as the famous Gold Crown from Cheonmachong Tomb. Its name comes from Cheonmado, a mudguard saddle flap with a painting of a heavenly horse. Cheonmachong Tomb is the only tomb in the Daereungwon Ancient Tombs to be opened to the public.

Hwangridan-gil: Hwangnidan Street was originally known as “Hwangnam Keungil” near Poseok-ro, Hwangnam-dong. Its name comes from the combination of Hwangnam-dong and Gyeongnidan Street in Itaewon, Seoul, meaning the “Gyeongnidan Street of Hwangnam-dong.” The street is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, photo studios, and shops housed in traditional hanok buildings, making it popular among the younger generations in Korea. The street also demonstrates newtro aesthetics due to the remaining old and worn buildings built during the 1960s and the '70s. Hwangnidan Street is near Cheomseongdae Observatory, Daereungwon Ancient Tombs, and other major tourist sites, allowing the street to become a popular Gyeongju attraction as well.