Korean Travels: Gyeongju

Gyeongju is one of my favourite places in Korea.

It boasts two World Heritage sites due its historic position 

as the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty.

The Silla Dynasty was one of the three ancient kingdoms of Korea.

And as the capital of one of these dynasties,
Gyeongju, exemplifies the wealth of history Korea is build upon.

The lovely city is a beautifully preserved representation of

a history rich in Korean culture.

We decided to visit the famed city just as winter was ending, 

and although most tourists rush to Gyeongju to experience the cherry blossom festival

(which is crazy beautiful),

our post-winter visit had a certain charm.

The sparsity of the trees and landscape was in itself an unique experience.

We meandered through the small town, past ice-covered lakes,
 enjoyed the first signs of spring and welcomed the sunshine.

We spent some time exploring the lovely city.

We stacked some stones for good health...

And realised just how stunningly beautiful Gyeongju is...

Deareungwon
At this site, ancient tombs of Korean royals rise out of the ground in perfect hills.

Poseokjeong Watercourse
Used as a designated meeting place, this artificial stream was used to float wine glasses around
to each member of the group.
It is an ancient wine stream... We need more of these. Just saying.

First, we joined a planned tour of the area 

and then later decided to rent bikes to do our own investigating.

So we decided to head out on our own,
to be brave,
face the unknown,
go where none had gone before.

And that is how we got lost.
Ended up on some highway,
and Sharise had to fight off a rouge dog.

The trip was unlike anything else I've experienced while traversing Korea.

A lovely contrast of old and new,

the city is undeniably one which gives you a true sense of Korea's past.

we were so excited to be there

And then we were very tired

But it was a good kind of tired,

the kind where you are so tired you pass out before dinner time,

and have to get McDonald's because everything else is closed at midnight.