Gyeongju‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, known as Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting the ancient capital of Silla Kingdom. This neighborhood is home to some of the most important and beautiful cultural heritage sites in South Korea, and it offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the region.
Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in South Korea and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple was built in 528 AD during the Silla Dynasty and has been beautifully preserved for over 1,300 years. The temple is located on the slopes of Toham Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The main hall of Bulguksa Temple, Daeungjeon, is where the main Buddha statue is located. The statue is a representation of the Historical Buddha and is surrounded by other smaller statues and intricate carvings. The temple also features several smaller halls and pagodas, each with their own unique history and significance.
Seokguram Grotto
Seokguram Grotto is a man-made cave located on the eastern slopes of Toham Mountain. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important Buddhist architectural sites in Asia. The grotto was built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty and is known for its magnificent statues and intricate carvings.
The main attraction of Seokguram Grotto is the statue of the Buddha, which is located at the end of the cave. The statue is made of granite and is over 3 meters tall. The Buddha is surrounded by smaller statues of Bodhisattvas and disciples. The walls of the grotto are also adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs, depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist stories.
Visiting Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto
To visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, tourists can take a bus from Gyeongju city center. The journey takes about 30 minutes and the bus stops directly at the entrance to the temple and grotto. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to enter the sites.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the temple and grotto are located on a hill, and the walk to the top can be steep. Visitors should also be prepared for the crowds, as the temple and grotto are very popular tourist destinations.
Conclusion
Gyeongju’s Most Popular Neighborhood is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting South Korea. The ancient capital of Silla Kingdom is home to some of the most important and beautiful cultural heritage sites in the country, and visiting Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the region. The temple and grotto are easily accessible by bus and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors should be prepared for the crowds and wear comfortable shoes, but the experience is worth the effort.
