North Gyeongsang province, south-east South Korea
Gyeongju
Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla kingdom for close to a thousand years, and the city still sits among royal burial mounds, temples and palace ponds. It suits culture and history channels and fits naturally between Seoul and Busan, so it works best on Signature tier trips and above.
Bulguksa, Gyeongju
What creators film here
- The grassy royal tombs of Daereungwon in the centre of town.
- Bulguksa temple and the Seokguram grotto in the hills.
- Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, lit and reflected after dark.
- Hanok cafés and the old streets around Hwangnidan-gil.
When to come
Cherry blossom around the lakes and tombs in early spring, and autumn colour at Bulguksa, are the peak looks. Summer is hot and wet during the monsoon. Winter is cold and quiet, which means emptier frames.
Getting around on a hosted trip
Gyeongju sits between Seoul and Busan and is on the KTX line. Travel into Gyeongju and between sites is agreed in the itinerary before you sign.
Filming notes
- Temples are active places of worship. Keep quiet near halls and do not film monks or worshippers without permission.
- Some interiors, including inside the Seokguram grotto, do not allow photography.
- Do not climb or stand on the burial mounds.