Themes & Stories

A place where old alleys embrace the new, Hwangnidan-gil. This is a street where the heritage of Silla and modern sensibilities blend seamlessly—perfect for a stylish, sensory-filled day of walking.

Spanning approximately 1.5 km, this emotional and experiential tour route can be enjoyed comfortably in half a day. Hwangnidan-gil is more than just a café street. It’s a space where past and present, tradition, and trends naturally coexist. On this street, walking itself becomes an art.

Today started at Gyeongju Wonjo Kongguk! I opened the day with a warm bowl of traditional kongguk (soybean soup) that has been passed down for three generations since 1956. The rich aroma of soybeans fills your mouth, and each creamy, nutty spoonful gently warms your stomach. The fact that there are vegan options was also impressive. Though it’s a small restaurant, its neat and warm atmosphere matches well with Gyeongju’s morning.

Gyeongju Wonjo Kongguk Address: 113 Cheomseong-ro, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-743-9644  View details

After filling up on kongguk (soybean soup), I walked about 10 minutes to Bitgguri. This hanok teahouse is a renovated 100-year-old traditional home, where the tranquil courtyard and scent of wood bring a calming sense of peace. I could enjoy homemade grain syrup with saekdong injeolmi (bean powder–coated colored rice cake) and traditional tea. Sipping warm tea by the sunlit window was an absolutely perfect moment. They also offer one-day tea experience classes you can join.

Bitgguri Address: 16-1 Sonhyoja-gil, Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-777-4421  View details

Just a few steps into the alley from the café, there’s Ipgonnolja, a hanbok rental shop newly opened in 2024. Various latest Silla costumes and fusion hanbok combining classical beauty and trends were prepared. Thanks to the sophisticated colors and designs, taking photos anywhere on Hwangnidan-gil creates lifetime shots. Even wearing hanbok for a short time makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled to the Silla era.

Ipgonnolja Address: Units 13–14, 10 Poseok-ro 1068beon-gil, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-507-1496-6070  View details

Just a two-minute walk down the alley from the hanbok rental shop brings you to Bittteuran (Sunny Garden) Ceramic Studio. Here you can experience making your custom pottery. The ceramic artist provides kind, step-by-step guidance, making it easy and enjoyable even for first-timers. Completed works can be received by delivery after a few days, and one side of the workshop displays beautiful ceramics and fabric art pieces, adding an extra layer of enjoyment as you browse.

Bittteuran (Sunny Garden) Ceramic Studio Address: 4 Sajeong-ro 57beon-gil, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-507-1468-0187  View details

The final stop of the day was Daereungwon Art Warehouse, a charming select shop. With the theme “Remember Gyeongju,” it’s a space that exhibits and sells goods and accessories made by local artists. It’s filled with delightful items like postcards, posters, and dreamcatchers, plus exclusive, artist-designed souvenirs that are perfect for gifts. I wrapped up my journey here, surrounded by the artistic spirit that defines Hwangnidan-gil.

Daereungwon Art Warehouse Address: 1F, 27-1 Poseok-ro 1068beon-gil, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-777-2386  View details