Do you wish to experience a timeless romance with your beloved? The moment you board a train to Gyeongju, where Korea's long history and tradition thrive, your love will deepen amidst the breath of a thousand years. With its tranquil beauty and mysterious relics, Gyeongju is the perfect place for couples to focus on each other and pledge eternal love. Gyeongju's serene landscapes will make your love story even more tender.
✨ Special Benefits for Couples: Korea Travel Support Programs
While traveling with your beloved is precious, the cost can't be overlooked. In Korea, the government and various local municipalities operate diverse travel support programs to boost domestic tourism. By making good use of these, you can save on travel expenses and create even richer and more fulfilling memories.
1. Local Government Tourism Promotion Programs
Many local governments offer their own travel subsidies to vitalize their regional economies. These programs typically involve refunding a certain amount or giving back local currency when you stay or spend money in specific areas. For example, Gangjin County in Jeollanam-do operates programs like 'Gangjin Half-Price Travel,' which refunds a portion of travel expenses in mobile gift certificates. Keep an eye out for similar programs in Gyeongsang Province and other regions you plan to visit by checking their official tourism websites for the latest information. Smart planning will make your romantic trip even more enjoyable.
2. Worker Vacation Support Program
Organized by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), this program primarily supports employees of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-profit organizations in Korea by subsidizing their domestic travel expenses. If an employee contributes USD 200, their company and the government each add USD 100, providing a total of USD 400 in travel points. These points can be freely used on an online platform called 'Vacation Shop.' Foreign workers residing and working in Korea may be eligible for this benefit. Consider this opportunity to plan a special trip with your loved one in Korea.
3. One-Month Stay Program
Some couples might find short trips insufficient. Certain local governments offer 'One-Month Stay' programs, providing subsidies for accommodation or living expenses if you stay in a specific area for about a month. If you're a couple looking to deeply experience Korea's charm over an extended period, it's worth checking the websites of various local governments, including those in Gyeongsang Province, for related information.
4. Accommodation App Discount Coupons
Major Korean accommodation applications like Yanolja and Yeogi Eottae often partner with local governments to offer discount coupons for booking accommodations in specific regions. For example, they might provide a USD 30 discount for bookings over USD 50, or USD 10 for bookings over USD 30. These promotions are usually on a first-come, first-served basis for a limited period, so be sure to check the app announcements before your trip to seize these great opportunities.
Here is a list of tourism website addresses for major local governments in South Korea. You can check out tourist information for each region through these links. We hope this helps you when planning your travels! * Seoul Metropolitan City: https://english.visitseoul.net/ * Busan Metropolitan City: http://eng.visitbusan.or.kr/ * Incheon Metropolitan City: https://www.incheon.go.kr/tourism/eng/index.do * Daegu Metropolitan City: http://korean.visitdaegu.net/en/ * Gwangju Metropolitan City: http://tour.gwangju.go.kr/eng/main.do * Daejeon Metropolitan City: http://en.daejeon.go.kr/ * Ulsan Metropolitan City: http://www.ulsan.go.kr/ulstour_eng/ * Sejong Special Self-Governing City: http://www.sejong.go.kr/portal/en/ * Gyeonggi Special Self-Governing Province: http://www.gg.go.kr/site/gg_en/ * Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province: http://www.eco-kangwon.com/english/
🚄 5-Day Romantic Train Itinerary for Gyeongju, Gyeongsang Province (Centred on Singyeongju Station)
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Depart Seoul → Arrive Singyeongju Station | Bomun Lake Trail stroll and duck boat date | Enjoy Bomun Complex lakeside night view, luxury dinner |
| Day 2 | Pledge eternal love at Gameunsa Temple Site | Templestay at Golgulsa or meditation at Muryangsa Temple | Romantic dinner and night view stroll in Hwanglidan-gil |
| Day 3 | Stroll through historical parks: Cheomseongdae, Daereungwon, Gyerim | Woljeonggyo Bridge night view & romantic outing at Donggung and Wolji (Anapji) | Explore traditional Hanjeongsik restaurants |
| Day 4 | Oksan Seowon, Dokrakdang, Jeonghyesaji Sibsamcheung Stone Pagoda | Healing time at Sannae Valley (e.g., Oksan Seowon Valley) | Quiet and atmospheric wine bar or tea house |
| Day 5 | Bulguksa Temple or Seokguram Grotto (optional) | Depart Singyeongju Station → Return to Seoul |
📍 Towards Gyeongsang Province on a Time Machine: Romance Amidst A Thousand Years of History
From Gangwon Province, transfer to the KTX-Eum train at Donghae Station and head to Gyeongju, the ancient capital with a thousand years of history. Gyeongju is like a vast museum in itself, perfect for couples who wish to escape the bustling city and immerse themselves in the deep history amidst a tranquil and serene atmosphere. Let me introduce you to special places that will further solidify your love amidst the spirit of the Silla Kingdom.
✨ Day 1: Bomun Lake Trail – Whispers of Love in Nature
Upon arriving at Singyeongju Station, the first place to visit is Gyeongju's symbol, Bomun Lake. Although it's an artificial lake, its scale and beauty rival any natural lake. The 'Bomun Lake Trail' is a beautifully maintained walking path around the lake, perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one. As you walk along the lake, a peaceful scenery unfolds, with lush forests and clear waters, helping you forget the city's bustle. Spending time together on a duck boat on the lake will also be an unforgettable memory. Gaze into each other's eyes and have deep conversations by the expansive lakeside.
- Location: 424-33 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (center of Bomun Lake Trail)
- Online Info: Search 'Bomun Tourism Complex' on Gyeongju City Hall Tourism website. Instagram: #BomunLakeTrail, #BomunLake
- Public Transportation: From Singyeongju Station, take city bus #150 or #700 and alight at 'Kensington Resort' or 'Commodore Hotel' (approx. 40-50 min). Taxi ride approx. 30 min, fare about KRW 25,000-30,000.
✨ Day 2: Gameunsa Temple Site – A Promise for a Thousand Years of Love
Today's itinerary begins at Gameunsa Temple Site, a hidden gem of Gyeongju. It is not just a relic, but a sacred space where you and your loved one can feel an emotion that transcends time. This temple site, founded by King Munmu of Silla with a wish to protect the nation as a guardian dragon, features two colossal three-story stone pagodas. Standing 13.4 meters tall, these pagodas are revered for their grandeur and beauty among existing Unified Silla stone pagodas. They will inspire you to wish for your love to be eternal, just like them.
Gameunsa Temple Site is located on a wide plain, offering expansive views, and its serene, uncrowded atmosphere allows for deep conversations solely between the two of you. Especially at sunset, when the pagodas are bathed in the red glow, it creates an inexpressibly magnificent and mystical beauty. In that moment, your silhouettes will be etched in memory like a scene from ancient history. In this quiet and contemplative place, rediscover the meaning of love amidst tranquility.
- Location: 948-12 Gameun-ro, Yangbuk-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Online Info: Search 'Gameunsa Temple Site' on Gyeongju City Hall Tourism website. Instagram: #GameunsaTempleSite, #GyeongjuGameunsaTempleSite
- Public Transportation: Direct city bus routes from Singyeongju Station to Gameunsa Temple Site are infrequent. It's recommended to first go to Gyeongju city center (near bus terminal or Jungang Market), then take a city bus from the 150s series towards Yangbuk, or a rural bus (total travel time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes or more). A taxi from Singyeongju Station takes about 40-50 minutes, with a fare of about KRW 30,000-40,000.
✨ Day 3: Donggung and Wolji (Anapji) – A Palace More Romantic at Night
Gyeongju's representative night view spot and a former royal banquet hall of the Silla Kingdom, Donggung and Wolji (Anapji), are beautiful during the day but even more romantic at night. The splendid illuminations of the pavilions reflected on the vast pond create a magical scenery as if starlight has descended. Stroll hand-in-hand along the pond, tracing the same paths where Silla princes once walked, and fully enjoy the romantic night ambiance. Your love will deepen in front of the picturesque night view reflected on the tranquil water.
- Location: 102 Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Online Info: Search 'Donggung and Wolji' on Gyeongju City Facilities Management Corporation website. Instagram: #DonggungAndWolji, #Anapji
- Public Transportation: From Singyeongju Station, take city bus #10 or #100s and alight at 'Anapji (Donggung and Wolji)' stop (approx. 40 min). Taxi ride approx. 25 min, fare about KRW 20,000.
✨ Day 4: Oksan Seowon and Valley – Healing in Quiet, Pristine Nature
Venture to the outskirts of Gyeongju to experience the quiet and pristine beauty of nature at Oksan Seowon and its surrounding valley. Oksan Seowon is one of Korea's beautiful seowon (Confucian academies) listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its serene traditional Korean buildings blend with lush forests to create a peaceful atmosphere. It's less crowded, allowing you to spend quiet time together and immerse yourselves in academic tranquility.
A clear, clean stream flows near Oksan Seowon, making it a great place to relax to the sound of water in summer. Dip your feet in the cool water, read a book, or lean on each other, listening to nature's sounds and resting your weary minds. The clear air and serene scenery here will make your love even more comfortable and profound. Hidden valley spots like 'Cheongryong Falls' are particularly famous for their pristine water.
- Location (Oksan Seowon): 216-27 Oksanseowon-gil, Angang-eup, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Online Info: Search 'Oksan Seowon' on Gyeongju City Hall Tourism website. Instagram: #OksanSeowon, #GyeongjuValley
- Public Transportation: Public transport from Singyeongju Station or Gyeongju city center to Oksan Seowon is not convenient, so a taxi or rental car is recommended (approx. 40-50 min, taxi fare about KRW 30,000-35,000).
🌙 A Haven of Love: Recommended Accommodations (Nearby)
Here are some accommodations that will make your 5-day, 4-night stay in Gyeongju even more romantic and comfortable.
- 1. Hilton Gyeongju: Enjoy a luxurious romantic getaway at Hilton Gyeongju, a representative 5-star hotel right next to the beautiful Bomun Lake. The view of the lake from the spacious and luxurious rooms is like a painting. Top-notch facilities and service will make your precious time together even more special and comfortable. It's also an ideal location for enjoying a romantic stroll around Bomun Lake with your loved one.
- Location: 484-77 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Website: hilton.co.kr/hotels/hilton-gyeongju
- Instagram: @hilton.gyeongju
- 2. Kolon Hotel: This historic hotel is located within walking distance of Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It harmonizes traditional Silla architecture with modern amenities, boasting beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel even features a mock-up of Seokguram Grotto and relevant historical materials, allowing guests to experience Silla culture more intimately.
- Location: 289 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Website: kolonhotel.co.kr
- Instagram: @kolonhotel_official
- 3. Lahan Select Gyeongju: A luxury mixed-use resort located right by Bomun Lake, renowned for its outstanding design and service. The beautiful Bomun Lake view from the rooms will capture your hearts. With various cultural and leisure facilities including an art museum, bookstore, and indoor water park, it offers intellectual satisfaction alongside enjoyment. An ideal choice for couples seeking a refined experience together.
- Location: 182-9 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Website: lahanselect.co.kr/gyeongju/
- Instagram: @lahanselect_gyeongju
- 4. Sarangchae Hanok Guesthouse (near Hwanglidan-gil): Experience a romantic night steeped in Korean tradition at a classic hanok guesthouse near Gyeongju's Hwanglidan-gil. Spending a night in a warm ondol room with your loved one will become an unforgettable memory. Amidst the charming courtyard and serene atmosphere, you can immerse yourselves in the beauty of traditional Korea and find new inspiration for your love.
- Location: 1083-4 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (representative address, many hanok guesthouses exist in the area)
🍽️ Flavors to Fill Your Love: Recommended Restaurants (Nearby)
Dining experiences in Gyeongju will further enrich your journey.
- 1. Hwanglidan-gil Hanjeongsik (near Cheomseongdae): Hwanglidan-gil in Gyeongju is a hot spot where tradition and modernity blend. Here, you can savor exquisite Hanjeongsik (Korean set meals). (Signature dishes: Silla Royal Family Hanjeongsik, Vegetarian Hanjeongsik). The fresh seasonal ingredients used to create refined and healthy dishes will delight both your eyes and palate. Enjoying a quiet and leisurely meal in a beautiful hanok setting will deepen your conversations, making it the best choice for couples who wish to taste Korean court cuisine.
- 2. Gyochon Village's Gyori Gimbap: If you're visiting Gyeongju, you must try this unique gimbap. (Signature dish: Gyori Gimbap). Although it doesn't contain unusual ingredients, it's packed with soft, thinly sliced egg omelet, giving it a savory yet mild flavor. Its non-spicy and light taste makes it enjoyable for couples. It's a light yet satisfying meal; you might even want to order another roll. Stroll through Gyochon Village with your gimbap in hand and find joy in small moments of happiness.
- 3. Ssambap Restaurant near Bomun Complex: Korean 'Ssambap' is a dining culture where you wrap seasoned meat and various side dishes in fresh leafy greens. (Signature dishes: Duck Bulgogi Ssambap, Jeyuk Ssambap). Around Gyeongju's Bomun Complex, there are many Ssambap restaurants that generously offer organic leafy greens. The fresh vegetables, combined with the harmonious flavors of the meat, along with an abundance of side dishes, will provide a healthy and hearty meal. If you wish to experience the warm 'Jeong' (affection) of Korea and enjoy a bountiful meal, Ssambap is highly recommended.
💖 Moments of Love to Cherish Forever: Recommended Photo Spots for Couples
Capture your love in photos amidst the beautiful nature and historic sites of Gyeongju.
- 1. Donggung and Wolji (Anapji) Night View: Capture romantic back shots of holding hands and walking, or photos of you facing each other and smiling by the pond, against the backdrop of brilliantly lit pavilions reflected on the water. These create a fantastic atmosphere.
- 2. Gameunsa Temple Site Three-story Stone Pagodas: Standing between the two massive three-story stone pagodas, capture moments of holding your loved one's hand and facing each other, or take silhouette photos against the pagodas, creating a mysterious and beautiful image as if you've traveled back in time. The sunset particularly serves as a perfect backdrop.
- 3. Bomun Lake Trail: Capture joyful moments riding a tandem bicycle or natural shots walking side-by-side along the Bomun Lake Trail with the vast, blue Bomun Lake in the background. Your love will shine even brighter amidst the peaceful scenery.
- 4. Oksan Seowon or Valley: Take elegant and serene photos in front of the traditional Korean architecture of Oksan Seowon, or capture natural moments of dipping your feet in the clear, clean valley water and gazing at each other. Your relaxed love will be beautifully captured amidst the quiet and pristine nature.