With school-age children
Experience a time slip in Gyeongsangbuk-do
1 Cheomseongdae Observatory Glimpse into the world of ancient astronomy at Cheomseongdae Observatory
This landmark in Gyeongju is the oldest astronomical observatory in the Eastern World. Standing at 9.5 meters, it is constructed from 365 stones, symbolizing the days of the year.
The structure's circular top represents the sky, while rectangular base symbolizes the earth. Nearby, a field of pink muhly grass blooms from September to November, providing a stunning backdrop for photos with waves of pink surrounding the Observatory.
- 140-25, Cheomseong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 첨성로 140-25
2 Daereungwon Ancient Tombs Explore the Daereungwon Ancient Tombs
Within this historical site, you'll find 23 tombs from the Silla period, belonging to kings, queens, and nobles. Cheonmachong Tomb, which stands 12.7 meters tall and measures 50 meters in perimeter, is the only tomb open to the public.
Inside, visitors can explore a 6.5-meter-long, 4.2-meter-wide, and 2.1-meter-tall wooden chamber where the deceased were laid in wooden coffins. Artifacts excavated from the tomb, including golden crowns, hats, belts, and gilt-bronze shoes, are displayed at the Gyeongju National Museum.
- 31-1, Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 황남동 31-1
- Main Gate 09:00 - 22:00, Rear Gate & Cheonmachong Tomb 09:00 - 21:30
3 Gyeongju National Museum Discover the cultural heritage of Silla at Gyeongju National Museum
This museum proudly displays the cultural heritage of the ancient Silla kingdom, with artifacts collected from Gyeongju and its vicinity. The museum features the Silla History Gallery, dedicated to the millennium-old history of Silla; the Children's Museum, which introduces Korean history and traditions through games and interactive exhibits; the Silla Art Gallery, showcasing the sophisticated art and culture of Silla; and an Outdoor Exhibition Area with items like a Dharma bell, stone pagodas, and stone Buddhist statues.
- 186, Iljeong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 일정로 186
- Sunday - Friday 10:00 - 18:00, Saturdays & public holidays 10:00 - 19:00 (till 21:00 for the last Wednesday of each month, Saturdays from March through December)
4 Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond Take captivating nighttime pictures at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
- Night sightseeing
Donggung Palace was the residence of the Silla prince, accompanied by Wolji Pond, which was constructed along with three small islands during the reign of King Munmu. The palace and pond are renowned for their breathtaking nighttime views in Gyeongju, characterized by elegant buildings bathed in gentle yellow light and the serene waters of the pond.
- 102, Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 원화로 102
- 09:00 - 22:00
5 Homigot Conclude the day watching the Hands of Harmony in Homigot
Renowned as the first place in Korea to witness the sunrise, Homigot attracts crowds every January 1 for New Year's celebrations. It is famous for the "Hands of Harmony" sculptures; the bronze right hand emerges from the sea, while the left hand is situated at Homigot Sunrise Square, which was built to commemorate the new millennium in December 1999.
- 20, Haemaji-ro 150beon-gil, Homigot-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 포항시 남구 호미곶면 해맞이로 150번길 20
6 Hwangnidan Street Additional spot
The vibrant Hwangnidan Street in Gyeongju is the city's most popular hangout, featuring cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, photography studios, and guesthouses, all housed within traditional hanok-style buildings. Its proximity to Cheomseongdae Observatory and Daereungwon Ancient Tombs makes it a perfect spot for tourists.
- 1080, Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 포석로 1080
7 Gyeongju World Additional spot
This amusement park is filled with thrilling attractions, including the Megadrop, a heart-stopping plunge from 70 meters, and Klake, a ride that spins 360 degrees. During the summer, the park also features California Beach, a water park with a 320-meter-long flowing pool, wave pool, and water slides.
- 544, Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 경주시 보문로 544
- Vary by day of the week and season (Please refer to their website for details)
8 Pohang Coastal Skywalk Additional spot
Stretching 436 meters long and standing 7 meters tall, the Pohang Coastal Skywalk offers a unique experience with part of its walkway made of special glass, giving the sensation of walking on the sea. In the summer, visitors can enjoy a natural seawater pool at the center of the skywalk, perfect for swimming with a view of the ocean.
- 518, Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경상북도 포항시 북구 해안로 518
- March - November 09:00 - 21:00, December - February 09:00 - 18:00
Source: Korea Tourism Organization, “FAMILY fun in KOREA: My Family’s First Korea”, compiled June 2024; text reused, the guide’s photos and illustrations are not (our own graphics). Hours, fees and venues change, confirm before you go.
