Yeongju combines the buzz of a city with easy access to one of the most beautiful national parks in South Korea. Tour and ancient Buddhist temple built in the 6th century and visit a museum dedicated to the country’s booming soybean industry. To the north-east is Sobaeksan National Park, where you can discover breathtaking mountain scenery.
Things to do in Yeongju
Use Yeongju as a launchpad to explore Sobaeksan National Park. Established in the 1980s, it’s named after the 1,439-metre-high mountain that towers over the park. Hike to the summit for panoramic views over the park and surrounding peaks. Depending on when you visit, the park may be covered with lush foliage, carpeted with wildflowers or dusted with snow.
A beautiful, swallowtail roof crowns Buseoksa Temple. Founded in the 6th century by a Buddhist monk, the temple is one of the oldest in South Korea. Walk around the cavernous main hall dominated by a Buddhist altar and admire the ancient stone pagoda in the temple grounds.
Learn about one of South Korea’s most popular crops at the Soy World Science Museum. The museum is dedicated to the humble soybean and features interactive exhibits on the much-loved legume. Learn about how the plant is grown, harvested and processed into products like tofu, soy milk and miso paste.
Dine at local restaurants and try classic dishes from Gyeongsang Province. Order crowd favourites like “andong jjimdak” braised chicken, “jogae kalguksu” clam soup and “pajeon” green onion pancakes. Street stalls serve “bulgogi” marinated BBQ beef wrapped in lettuce leaves and topped with spicy “ssamjang” sauce. Cool off with a cup of bubble tea or a glass of banana milk, another South Korean favourite.
Getting around Yeongju
Taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around Yeongju. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Yeongju and explore Gyeongsang Province at your own pace. Trains run between Seoul and Yeongju in around 3.5 hours. Incheon International Airport is a four-hour drive away.