Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage One Day Tour: Explore the Ancient Sites of South Korea

South Korea’s stunning city of Busan is located in the Southeastern region of the country and one of the most popular destinations to visit in South Korea. The city is popular not just for its beaches but also for its cultural heritage. The UNESCO World Heritage Site city of Gyeongju, located relatively close to Busan, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. The Gyeongju one day tour is an amazing way to explore the ancient sites of South Korea comfortably and hassle-free. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about this tour.

Overview

The Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage One Day Tour is a full-day tour that will take you through ancient Gyeongju’s most important cultural and historical sites. You’ll travel to Gyeongju in an air-conditioned coach and visit various sites of interest, including Anapji Pond, Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Yangdong Village, among others. The tour includes entrance fees, round-trip transportation from central Busan, and an English/Chinese/Korean-speaking guide. You’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage sites while learning about ancient history and culture.

What To Expect

The tour includes the following itinerary:

1. Anapji Pond

Anapji Pond is a beautiful artificial pond from the Silla Dynasty and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is approximately 1,200 years old and a significant historic site. The artificial pond was initially created to conserve water and promote farming in the region. It was later transformed into a royal garden of the Silla kings. Your guide will take you through the various sculptures, buildings, and other historic sites around the pond while narrating their respective stories. Be sure to capture some stunning photos of this artificial lake to remember the stunning scenery for years to come.

2. Bulguksa Temple

Bulguksa Temple is undoubtedly one of the most important cultural heritage and historical sites in Korea. It is a Buddhist temple with a long history dating back to the Silla Dynasty in the 8th century. The temple features an amazing architectural design that one would surely appreciate. On the Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage One Day Tour, you’ll see various famous sites in Bulguksa Temple, including Daeungjeon (Main Hall), Geuknakjeon (Temple Storehouse), Gwaneumjeon (Bodhisattva Hall), and Seokgatap Pagoda. You’ll learn about how the temple played a significant role in spreading Buddhism in Korea.

3. Seokguram Grotto

Seokguram Grotto is a temple located in Gyeongju that symbolizes the height of Buddhist art in Korea. It was built in the 8th century and is located on Tohamsan Mountain. The temple is famous for its stone statues, and it is believed that these were constructed before the temple itself to help worshippers understand the principles of Buddhism better. Take your time admiring the scenic mountainous surroundings and the artwork of Seokguram Grotto on this tour.

4. Yangdong Village

The last stop of the tour is the Yangdong Village. It is another UNESCO world heritage site and allows visitors to see a traditional Korean village up close. The village features stunning ancient houses and follows the traditional ‘Hanok’ style architecture. You’ll see various historic houses belonging to important Korean families, including the Son and Ryu Houses. The guide will take you through tour showcasing the Korean folk architecture design, and you’ll learn about this country’s ancestral way of living—the perfect way to end the trip.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage One Day Tour is easy. Visit the website for Viator, select the Gyeongju tour, and choose the suitable date. Remember that the tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, all entrance fees, travel insurance, and an English/Chinese/Korean-speaking guide. Book the tour with Viator and get ready to travel back in history. Book the tour here

Book Your Tour Now

The Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage One Day Tour is a perfect way to explore ancient South Korea up close without worrying about the transportation and entrance fees or missing significant sites. The tour takes you through South Korea’s most famous ancient sites, including temples and traditional villages, and includes an experienced guide to help you make the most of your visit. Book the tour with Viator for a hassle-free and unforgettable travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Busan

Busan is a bustling city located in the southeastern part of South Korea. It is often referred to as the “Summer capital of South Korea” due to its beautiful beaches and moderate climate. If you are planning to visit Busan or are just curious about the city, this FAQ will provide you with the most commonly asked questions about Busan.

1. Where is Busan located?

Busan is located in the southeastern part of South Korea. It is the second-largest city in South Korea after Seoul and is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and seafood.

2. What is the best time to visit Busan?

The best time to visit Busan is from September to November when the temperatures are mild and the city is less crowded. The spring months of April and May are also an ideal time to visit when the weather is pleasant, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Busan?

Busan has a lot of tourist attractions that you can visit, such as:

– Haeundae Beach

This is one of the most popular beaches in Busan and is known for its white sand and clear waters. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun during the summer months.

– Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village is a picturesque village that is known for its colorful houses and art installations. It is a great place to take photos and to explore the local culture.

– Busan Tower

Busan Tower is a 120-meter high tower that offers stunning views of the city. It is a great place to visit at sunset to see the city lights.

– Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park is a seaside park that is known for its breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs. It is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the natural scenery.

4. What is the transportation system like in Busan?

Busan has an extensive transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is the most convenient way to get around the city, with four lines that cover most of the city. The buses are also a good option, with many routes that cover the city and its outskirts.

5. What is the local cuisine in Busan?

Busan is famous for its seafood, and there are many restaurants that serve fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, sashimi, and seafood soup. Other popular dishes include milmyeon (a cold noodle dish), dwaeji gukbap (pork and rice soup), and bibimbap (a mixed rice dish).

6. What are some souvenirs to buy in Busan?

If you are looking for souvenirs to bring back home, you can consider buying some of the following items:

– Korean snacks and sweets

Korean snacks and sweets are a popular souvenir item, and you can find many shops that sell them in Busan. Some of the popular snacks include Choco Pie, Pepero, and Dalgona candy.

– Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing)

Hanbok is a traditional Korean clothing that is often worn during festivals and celebrations. You can find shops that sell Hanbok in Busan, and it makes for a great souvenir item.

– Kimchi

Kimchi is a staple food in Korean cuisine, and you can find many shops that sell it in Busan. You can buy ready-to-eat kimchi or buy the ingredients to make it yourself.

7. Is Busan safe for tourists?

Yes, Busan is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any city, you should exercise caution and take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables safe, and avoiding unlit and isolated areas at night.

8. How do I get to Busan from Seoul?

There are several ways to get to Busan from Seoul, including:

– By train

There are several high-speed trains that run between Seoul and Busan, including the KTX and SRT. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train you take.

– By bus

There are several buses that run between Seoul and Busan, including express buses and city buses. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic.

– By plane

There are several airlines that fly between Seoul and Busan, including Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. The flight takes about 1 hour.

9. What is the currency used in Busan?

The currency used in Busan is the South Korean won (KRW). You can exchange foreign currency at banks or exchange booths in the city.

10. What is the weather like in Busan?

Busan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. The winters are cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C. The spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Book Your Tour Now: Busan is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer both locals and tourists. Whether you are interested in exploring the local culture, trying new foods, or enjoying the natural scenery, Busan has something for everyone. We hope that this FAQ has provided you with some useful information about Busan and has helped you plan your trip accordingly. Enjoy your trip to Busan!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Busan

Sitting on the southern coast of South Korea, Busan offers visitors a unique blend of modernity and traditional culture. With an abundance of great food, stunning beaches, historical temples, and exciting attractions, you can easily spend days exploring this vibrant city. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best things to do in Busan to make sure you have a memorable trip.

1. Visit the Jagalchi Market

Jagalchi Market is the largest fish market in Korea and is a must-visit attraction in Busan. With over 500 stores, the market offers every type of seafood imaginable. You can see fresh catches of fish, squid, and octopus, and even live crabs and sea cucumbers. Some stores even offer grilled seafood dishes for you to try right at the market.

2. Take a stroll along Haeundae Beach

Known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, Haeundae Beach is the most famous beach in Busan. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing. Make sure to take a relaxing walk along the boardwalk, which offers great views of the beach and the surrounding mountains.

3. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village is a vibrant neighborhood in Busan where houses have been painted in bright rainbow colors. You can stroll around the narrow alleys and steep hills, discovering unique art installations, cafes, and souvenir shops. If you want to learn more about the history of the village, visit the museum at the entrance.

4. Visit Beomeosa Temple

One of the oldest and most stunning temples in Korea, Beomeosa Temple is a peaceful and serene place to visit. The temple sits in the mountains, offering great views of the city below. Visitors can explore the different halls and pagodas, including the five-story stone pagoda, which dates back to the 9th century.

5. Try some local street food

Busan is famous for its food scene, and street food is a great way to sample some of the best local delicacies. Try the hot and spicy rice cakes called tteokbokki, fish cakes, and steaming hotteok (sweet pancakes). One of the popular street food areas in Busan is Gwangbok-dong, where you can find a wide range of vendors selling different types of food.

6. Visit the Busan Museum of Art

For art lovers, the Busan Museum of Art is a must-visit attraction in Busan. The museum holds a wide range of Korean contemporary art, as well as international exhibitions. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, designed to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

7. Watch a movie at the Busan Cinema Center

If you’re a movie buff, make sure to visit the Busan Cinema Center, the largest cinema complex in the world. With 30 screens, the center hosts the annual Busan International Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and movie enthusiasts from all over the world. The building itself is an impressive architectural gem, with a giant LED display on its roof.

8. Walk along the Oryukdo Skywalk

The Oryukdo Skywalk is a unique attraction in Busan that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The glass skywalk protrudes out over the ocean, offering panoramic views of the stunning coastline. If you’re afraid of heights, this might make your knees weak, but it’s well worth it for the amazing views.

9. Explore Taejongdae Park

Taejongdae Park is a scenic natural site located on the southern tip of Yeongdo-gu. The park offers panoramic views of the ocean and islands and is home to dense forests, walking trails, and stunning rock formations. Take a stroll around the park and make sure to visit the 200-meter-long observatory bridge for stunning views.

10. Visit the Yongdusan Park

Yongdusan Park is another scenic spot in Busan worth visiting. The park is home to the Busan Tower, which provides stunning views of the city from its observation deck. The park is also home to the historic Busan tower, the ancient Busan Castle, and vibrant local markets.

Final Thoughts

Busan has something for everyone, from stunning beaches and scenery to buzzing streets, markets, and movie centers. Whether you’re a food lover, nature lover, or history buff, Busan will not disappoint. So, pack your bags and set off to explore this lively and enchanting city.