Gyeongju Day 5: Immersed in the Ancient Glory of the Silla Kingdom (11 February 2025)

 

Kicked Off the Day with a Simple Breakfast

 

We had a simple breakfast of toast with butter and coffee in the lounge area of our hotel in Gyeongju.

 

By the way, you may also check out my full summary post here for a day-by-day breakdown.

 

 

 

Daereungwon Tomb Complex

 

After breakfast, we walked towards Daereungwon Tomb Complex under the gentle morning sun. The weather was perfect—bright and cold, but not too freezing.

 

 Seeing the giant brown tombs rising from the earth was surreal. They looked peaceful, majestic, and kind of magical, especially with the soft winter sunlight casting long shadows over the mounds. It honestly felt like we had stepped into another era.

 

The Daereungwon Tomb Complex is one of the most iconic historical sites in Gyeongju and offers a fascinating glimpse into the burial practices of the Silla Kingdom. The complex is home to more than 20 large earthen mound tombs, believed to be the final resting places of Silla royalty and nobility from over a thousand years ago.

One of the most famous tombs here is Cheonmachong, or "Heavenly Horse Tomb," which you can actually enter and explore inside. It contains fascinating artifacts including a gold crown and ancient relics that showcase the wealth and craftsmanship of the Silla era.

Walking through the park-like grounds feels peaceful and surreal—especially in winter, when the golden-brown mounds under the crisp sky look absolutely ethereal. It’s a must-visit site for anyone interested in Korea’s ancient history.

 

 

Cheomseongdae, Wolseong, Seokbinggo, Donggung Palace & Anapji Pond

From there, we made our way through a series of historical landmarks that played a huge role in the Silla kingdom.

 

First up was Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest of its kind in Asia—it’s small, but knowing it was built in the 7th century? Mind-blowing. We also visited the Wolseong Palace site, then the Seokbinggo Ice Storage, which was fascinating. Imagine ancient Koreans preserving ice before freezers were a thing!

Then came Donggung Palace & Anapji Pond—this place was so serene. The stillness of the pond, the simple beauty of the pavilions, and the sense of history in the air… it was honestly one of my favourite spots in Gyeongju. We ended up spending the entire morning till late afternoon soaking in all these gems.

 

 

Yangpyeong Haejangguk

Speaking of lunch, we found this cosy local spot serving Yangpyeong Haejangguk—a rich beefy soup often called "hangover soup." No, we weren’t hungover 😅, but this soup was so hearty and warming, it hit the spot perfectly.

 

Gyochon Hanok Village

As the sun started to dip, we headed to Gyochon Hanok Village. This area is full of traditional hanok houses, quiet streets, and a slower pace. It was so relaxing walking around there—no rush, no noise, just the charm of old Korea glowing softly in the evening light.

 

Woljeonggyo Bridge

We then made our way to the stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge. If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through a scene from a sageuk drama… this is it. The whole bridge lit up in red and gold tones, with reflections in the water—it was so romantic and peaceful.

 

Before crossing the bridge itself, we had a bit of fun hopping across the stream using the stone steps laid out like a path. The whole area felt peaceful and almost cinematic, like we had wandered onto the set of a historical K-drama. It was such a beautiful and romantic way to wrap up the evening.

 

Tomb Mounds View at Night

On our walk back, we passed by the tomb mounds again—this time bathed in moonlight. The gentle lighting around them made the whole scene feel mystical and calm. It’s amazing how different a place can feel just a few hours later. I don’t know why, but the sight really stuck with me.

Gyeongju has this quiet beauty that sneaks up on you, and the more you see, the more you fall in love with it. From sunshine to moonlight, it was a magical journey through Korea’s past. 🌞🏯🌙That wrapped up Day 5. We couldn’t wait to see what Day 6 had in store! ✨

 

Day 4: Seoul to Gyeongju (10 February 2025)

Started the Day by Lugging Our Luggage from LifeIn Insadong to Anguk Station

 

The struggle was real as we lugged our suitcases through the quiet morning streets of Insadong, braving the cold morning air. Navigating the narrow and bumpy sidewalks made the journey to Anguk Station feel much longer than it actually was! Once there, we took the subway to Seoul Express Bus Terminal to begin our journey to Gyeongju.

 

By the way, you may also check out my full summary post here for a day-by-day breakdown.

Breakfast at "No Brand Burger" at Seoul Express Bus Terminal

 

With some time to kill before boarding our express bus (we had purchased the tickets on Klook back in Malaysia), we grabbed breakfast at "No Brand Burger," a popular fast-food chain known for its affordable yet delicious burgers. I really didn't mind having Western food for a change—it was a comforting start to a long travel day.

 

 

Express Bus Journey from Seoul Station to Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal

 

After breakfast, we waited for our express bus to Gyeongju at Platform 9. The bus arrived about 10 minutes before departure, and, as expected, it left right on the dot—Koreans really are incredibly punctual!

 

The 3.5-hour ride to Gyeongju (335km south of Seoul) was smooth and scenic, with snow-covered landscapes rolling past the windows. Watching the winter countryside unfold felt almost cinematic—bare trees dusted in white, frozen rivers, and sleepy villages tucked between mountains.

 

🌨️ Check out the romantic snowfall scene from the bus window! ❄️

 

 

Checking in to Stay Romantic Trip Hostel

 

Upon arriving at Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal, we walked to our accommodation, Stay Romantic Trip Hostel. True to its name, the place had a charming and cozy vibe, perfect for couples. The heated bed was a welcome relief from the cold, and the best part? It was within walking distance of the famous Silla kingdom mound tombs, making it an ideal base for exploring Gyeongju’s rich history.

 

 

My Winter Outfit Look

 

How do I look? ❄️ Here's my full winter ensemble:

 

• Heattech (top & pants)
• Long winter skirt
• Sweater
• Woolen vest
• Puffer jacket with down
• Wool scarf, gloves, hat, winter socks, and boots

And yet... I was still freezing to the bone! 😭

 

Honestly, I thought Gyeongju would be warmer since it’s south of Seoul (335 km away), but it didn’t feel like it at all—especially when the wind blew. Brrrrr! 🥶

 

Romantic Evening in Gyeongju Hwangnidan Street

 

As evening fell, we explored the beautifully lit streets of Gyeongju Hwangnidan-gil, known for its traditional hanok buildings, trendy cafes, and unique boutiques. The soft glow of lanterns and the crisp evening air made it feel like a scene from a historical drama.

 

Romantic Dinner at Sohyangmong Restaurant

 

 For dinner, we had a romantic meal at Sohyangmong Restaurant, indulging in their couple menu featuring:

 

🍖 Royal Galbijjim (braised short ribs) – rich, tender, and packed with deep, savory flavors.
🍶 Gyeongju Cherry Makgeolli – a subtly sweet, refreshing twist on traditional Korean rice wine.

 

The perfect pairing made for a memorable dining experience, ending our first night in Gyeongju on the most delightful note.

 

📍Sohyangmong Restaurant

🏠 Address: Sajeong-ro 57beon-gil, 16 소향몽 1층, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

 

 

Day 4 was perfect! From the bustling energy of Seoul to the historic charm of Gyeongju, the journey reminded us just how diverse and beautiful South Korea is. We couldn’t wait to see what Day 5 had in store! ✨

Seoul Day 3: A Day Trip to Suwon & Ending the Night in Myeongdong (9 February 2025)

Started the Day with Breakfast at GS25 Convenience Store

 

I had always wanted to visit a GS25 convenience store, and finally, we did! For breakfast, I had two samgak kimbap (triangular rice balls) and a cup of instant café latte. Hubby had a bowl of instant ramyeon.

 

By the way, you may also check out my full summary post here for a day-by-day breakdown.

First Time Taking the Subway: From Jonggak Station to Suwon Station

 

Taking the subway for the first time in Seoul was both exciting and slightly nerve-wracking! With multiple lines and transfers, I was worried about getting lost, but it turned out to be quite manageable as long as we studied the routes beforehand using the Seoul Subway app in English.

 

 

We used our T-Money card for all subway rides.

 

The subway train we took was clean, efficient, and punctual, making the hour-long journey from Jonggak Station to Suwon Station a breeze. And yes, the stereotype is true—most Koreans wore black, white, or blue winter jackets!

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO Heritage Site)

 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hwaseong Fortress is a massive, well-preserved structure that surrounds the heart of Suwon. Walking along the fortress walls, I was amazed by the panoramic views of the city, framed by traditional gates and watchtowers.

 

 

Walking during winter was an entirely different experience—the crisp, cold air, the soft crunch of snow underfoot, and the fortress grounds lightly dusted in white made the scenery even more breathtaking. The contrast between the icy landscape and the warm golden glow of the afternoon sun gave the fortress an almost storybook-like charm, making every step along its historic walls feel surreal.

 

Hwaseong Haenggung & Haenggung Street

 

Nestled within the fortress, Hwaseong Haenggung Palace was once a temporary royal residence. The palace grounds were serene and beautifully restored, with traditional hanok-style buildings giving insight into royal life during the Joseon Dynasty. Just outside, Haenggung Street was lined with charming cafes and souvenir shops, offering everything from Korean crafts to street snacks—a perfect blend of history and modern culture.

Walking from Seoul Station to Myeongdong – Crossing the Zebra Crossing

 

After returning from Suwon and alighting at Seoul Station, we decided to walk to Myeongdong. One of the unexpectedly fun moments? Crossing the zebra crossing near Namdaemun Market! Unlike the famous Shibuya Crossing in Japan, this one had fewer people but still a vibrant city energy. For a brief moment, I felt like I was in a K-drama scene, surrounded by bright billboards, car horns, and the fast-paced rhythm of city life.

Namdaemun Market & Myeongdong Street

 

 

We walked through Namdaemun Market, where we found a street food stall selling hotteok filled with japchae (glass noodles)—a savory twist on the normally sweet Korean pancake! The crispy, chewy texture paired with the seasoned japchae filling was a surprising yet delightful treat.

As we strolled into Myeongdong, the bustling atmosphere immediately hit us—cosmetics shops, street food stalls, and neon lights made it feel like the ultimate shopping haven. Walking through Myeongdong Shopping Street, I couldn’t resist soaking in the energetic vibe of one of Seoul’s most iconic districts.

 

I couldn’t resist buying Korean strawberries (KRW 10,000) and Shine Muscat grapes (KRW 9,000)!

 

Myeongdong Cathedral – Attending Korean Youth Mass

 

We attended the 7PM Korean Youth Mass at Myeongdong Cathedral. The cathedral’s majestic Gothic architecture stood in stark contrast to the lively streets outside, offering a quiet, spiritual retreat. Though the Mass was in Korean, the universal warmth and solemnity of the service made it a deeply moving experience.

Mini Shopping Spree at Olive Young

Before heading back for the night, I indulged in a mini shopping spree at Olive Young, Korea’s ultimate beauty and skincare paradise. From sheet masks to serums and cute travel-sized finds, the store was packed with endless beauty must-haves. It was the perfect way to wrap up a fulfilling day—exploring history, enjoying street food, and indulging in a little retail therapy!

 

 

 

Enjoying Peaceful Late-Night Vibes of Insadong Alley

 

 As the crowds thinned and the shops closed, Insadong’s alleys transformed into a quiet retreat. The glow of traditional lanterns, the faint scent of tea, and the crisp night air made for a serene and magical late-night stroll.

 

 

 

How's My Hangul Handwriting?

 

I used the Papago app to translate a message and wrote it down on a piece of paper to leave on the clothes dryer at our accommodation. Since it was late at night, we didn’t want to stay up waiting for the load to finish, so the note explained our situation.

 

It was the perfect way to end our second day in Seoul, and we couldn’t wait to see what Day 4 had in store!

 

Seoul Day 2: Exploring Gyeongbokgung & Dinner at Tongin Market (8 February 2025)

Started the Day at Insadong

 

We officially kickstarted our Seoul trip by exploring Insadong on a beautiful, sunny yet cold morning on 8 February 2025.

 

By the way, you may also check out my full summary post here for a day-by-day breakdown.

 

 Although the sun was out, coming from a tropical country, we found the weather considerably cold at -3°C. See the chart from AccuWeather below.

 

 

We strolled along the beautiful street of Insadong with its traditional hanok-style shops, art galleries, and modern cafes. One of the highlights was Ssamziegil, an outdoor multi-story shopping complex with quirky souvenir and craft stores.

 

 

 

Brunch at Imun Seolnongtang (이문설농탕)

 

Then, we stopped by Imun Seolnongtang for brunch to enjoy a hearty bowl of seolleongtang (ox bone soup) with rice. This milky-white broth is slowly simmered for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup that is both nourishing and comforting—perfect for a winter morning.

 

Well, it was more like we stumbled upon it while looking for a place to escape the bitter cold wind... 😅🤣

 

 

According to VisitKorea, Imun Seolnongtang first opened in 1907, making it one of the oldest restaurants in Seoul. It has been serving its bestselling seolleongtang for over a hundred years, making it a must-visit spot for those craving traditional Korean flavors.

 

📍 Location: 38-13, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 38-13)

 

Palace Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung

 

After brunch, we made our way to Gyeongbokgung Palace to witness the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, an iconic and historically significant event held at the Gwanghwamun Gate (main entrance).

 

The entire performance lasts about 20 minutes and showcases a reenactment of the royal guards’ traditional changing of duty, complete with colorful hanbok uniforms, ceremonial weapons, and traditional Korean music. The event felt like stepping back in time, providing a glimpse into Korea’s rich royal heritage. Plus, it’s completely free to watch!

 

Gyeongbokgung & The National Folk Museum of Korea

 

Then, we took time to explore Gyeongbokgung, the Royal Palace built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty. Throughout history, it has been destroyed multiple times but has since been restored and remains one of the most significant palaces in South Korea. The palace grounds were expansive with traditional architecture set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Next, we visited the National Folk Museum of Korea, which is located within the palace grounds. This museum showcases Korean traditions, daily life, and cultural artifacts from different historical periods, giving us deeper insight into how people lived during the Joseon era.

 

Winter Street Food

 

After leaving Gyeongbokgung, while on the way back to Insadong, we stumbled upon a street food truck selling some of the most iconic Korean winter treats! Yes, we didn't have a concrete plan, so we ended up stumbling upon places quite a bit... 😅🤣

 

So, we bought:

 

🍯 Hotteok (Korean sweet pancake): This food struck sold the crispy version of hotteok, filled with a gooey mix of brown sugar and nuts. The crunch on the outside and the warm, caramelized filling inside made it absolutely delicious!

🐟 Bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry): This iconic winter street snack has a slightly crispy exterior and is filled with sweet red bean paste. This was my favorite!

🥚 Gyeran-ppang (egg bread): This is a small chunk, fluffy bread roll with a whole baked egg on top. The mix of savory and sweet flavors, combined with the warmth of the bread, made it the perfect comfort food for the chilly evening.

 

Dinner at Chebu-dong Janchi-jib in Tongin Market

 

 

While munching on our snacks as we made our way back to Insadong, we unexpectedly walked into Tongin Market. I was ecstatic because I hadn’t planned on accidentally stumbling upon one of Korea’s oldest traditional markets so early in our trip!

 

Well, we also needed a place to escape the wind again, as it was already evening, and the temperature has dropped drastically (it was double-digit negative Celcius... 🥶🥶)!

 

According to the Internet, Tongin Market is a historic market that has been around since 1941, originally built to serve the nearby Seodaemun and Gyeongbokgung Palace neighborhoods. While it has evolved over the years, it remains a beloved local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and handmade snacks to traditional Korean meals.

 

📍 Location: 18, Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 자하문로15길 18)

 

For dinner, we opted for a home-style Korean meal at Chebu-dong Janchi-jib. The restaurant—packed with locals—has a simple, no-frills setting, but the food speaks for itself—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Here’s what we ordered:

🍜 Janchi-guksu (잔치국수): This simple dish consists of thin wheat noodles in a light anchovy broth, topped with sliced eggs, seaweed, and scallions.

🥣 Sujebi (수제비): This dish is similar to the Malaysian Pan Mee with hand-pulled, chewy dough in a warm, savory broth—an ideal dish for a chilly winter night.

🥟 Mandu (만두): These are Korean dumplings stuffed with minced pork, glass noodles, and vegetables.

📍 Location: 5-1, Jahamun-ro 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 자하문로4길 5-1)

 

 

 Nighttime Walk from Gyeongbokgung to Insadong

 

 Finally, despite the bitter, wintry cold wind, we still needed to hurry back to Insadong. Walking seemed to take our minds off the freezing temperatures. The streets at night had a completely different atmosphere—quieter, with warm lights glowing from teahouses and boutique stores.

 

 

22,745 steps by 10:30pm!

 

It was the perfect way to end our second day in Seoul, and we couldn’t wait to see what Day 3 had in store!