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Photo: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The oldest existing observatory in the Far East, built during the reign of Queen Seonduk in 634.
Cheomseongdae is an astronomical observatory in Gyeongju, South Korea. Cheomseongdae is the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia, and possibly even the world. It was constructed during the Silla period, during the reign of Queen Seondeok. Cheomseongdae was designated as the country's 31st national treasure on December 20, 1962. It is part of Gyeongju Historic Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Located between the Cheomseongdae observatory and the National Museum, some of the trees here are over 2000 years old. According to a legend King Talhae heard a rooster in the forest in the middle of the night. The next morning a baby was found in the forest. The king adopted him, named him Kim Alji and he would eventually become the founder of Gyeongju. The forest was named Gyerim which translates to rooster.
월성지
Wolseong Park, also called Banwolseong or “Half-Moon Fortress,” is the former site of the Silla royal palace in Gyeongju. Although the earthen fortress walls remain, the area is now a large grassy park featuring historical relics and scenic walking paths. Archaeological excavations have uncovered palace foundations, ponds, and artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, providing valuable insight into Korea’s ancient royal culture. Today, the park is a peaceful site popular for strolling, photography, and exploring nearby landmarks such as Cheomseongdae Observatory and Anapji Pond.
교촌마을
A traditional Hanok village that was the center of Silla education and the seat of the famous Gyeongju Choi Clan (rich family) for 12 generations. Visitors can experience traditional Korean crafts, taste the famous 'Kyochon Gimbap', and see the well-preserved aristocratic architecture.
대릉원
Tumuli Park, also known as the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, is a historical park in Gyeongju featuring large grassy burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – AD 935). Within the park are over 20 royal tombs, including the famous Cheonmachong (“Heavenly Horse Tomb”), which is open to the public and displays artifacts discovered inside. The park offers a peaceful setting with walking paths surrounded by pine trees and provides insight into the royal culture and traditions of ancient Korea.
월정교
Scenic bridge reconstructed in Silla style near Gyeongju National Museum and Gyochon Traditional Village. It is a popular place for its night view
동궁과 월지
The artificial Anapji pond was created by King Munmu in 674. The pavilions on its banks were destroyed by fire and fell into the pond in 935. Archeological finds from the pond can be seen in the National Museum today. The pond is covered from late July to early August with blooming lotus flowers. In the middle stands a pavilion, which can be reached via steps. This place is popular with wedding couples who want to be photographed in the middle of the flower spectacle.
Anapji has been renamed "Donggung and Wolji" since 2011. According to a Korean history book called the Three Kingdoms Saga, the pond, Wolji, was created in the 14th year of King Munmu (674), and Donggung was built in 679, after the unification of the Three Kingdoms was completed. Donggung and Wolji is one of the most beautiful place in Gyeongju. They are decorated with many lights. It will be good choice, if visit here in the night.