Nestled on the slopes of Mount Toham, the Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple is known for its beautiful stone relics and national treasures. Wander through the historic temple and imagine what life was like back in 528 during the Silla Kingdom by marveling at its notable cultural relics.
See the Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas, considered national treasures, then walk across the iconic Yeonhwa-gyo and Chilbo-gyo bridges. Step inside Seokguram Grotto, a Buddhist cave decorated with figure sculptures, and photograph the stunning Golden Seated Vairocana Buddhist Figure.
You’ll find some of the earliest woodblock prints in the world, including the Dharani sutra, which dates back to 751 and is considered a masterpiece of the golden age of Buddhist art. Visit the highest point of the complex Gwaneumjeon, which houses an image of the Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Perfect Compassion.
Getting there
Bulguksa Temple is one hour from Gyeongju Train Station. From Gyeongju Train Station, you can follow Hwarang-ro Street and take bus 10 or 11, then get off at the temple’s entrance. Parking facilities are available on site.