Themes & Stories

I drove along the blue coast wanting to see the sea. As I passed the tranquil temple grounds of Gameunsa Temple Site and arrived at Bonggil Daewangam Beach—where waves meet the legend of a sleeping king—the ocean felt especially vast and majestic.

Covering roughly 49 km, this full-day driving route lets you take in the East Coast’s nature and sea views while enjoying Gyeongju’s rich history and local food along the way. If you stop the car intermittently to walk or take photos while appreciating the sea scenery, the trip will become even more special, right?

Today’s trip starts at Gameunsa Temple Site! This sacred site was built long ago by King Munmu after unifying the Three Kingdoms, with the wish to protect the nation through the power of Buddha. Amid the quiet stone pagodas and tranquil temple grounds, I took a moment to breathe and center myself for the day ahead.

Gameunsa Temple Site Address: 17 Yongdang-ri, Munmudaewang-myeon, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-779-8585  View details

After a three-minute drive, I arrived at Bonggil Daewangam Beach in front of the Tomb of King Munmu. Perhaps because it’s a place where the legend of a king sleeping in the sea is told, the wind and waves feel even more majestic. The moment I receive the sea breeze while listening to the sound of waves, I feel both Gyeongju’s sea and history simultaneously.

Tomb of King Munmu Address: 30-1 Bonggil-ri, Munmudaewang-myeon, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-779-8166  View details

Shall we walk the Padosori Trail this time? Walking 1.7 km to the rhythm of waves crashing against columnar joints felt like a full-body reset. I was able to get a close look at the unique rock formations and take all the photos I wanted. The fan-shaped formations, spreading out in circular layers like an open fan, are considered exceptionally rare even by global standards!

Padosori Trail Address: 405-5 Eupcheon-ri, Yangnam-myeon, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-779-8585  View details

After the coastal drive, it was time for lunch! At “Gyeongju Jeonbok Haemul Ttukbaegi” in Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Complex, I filled my stomach with a bowl of fresh abalone and seafood in refreshing and spicy broth. Having just come from the ocean, the flavors felt even more vibrant and satisfying.

Gyeongju Jeonbok Haemul Ttukbaegi Address: 1F, Bomun Lake Town, 402-31 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-742-2019  View details

Dessert can’t be skipped after a delicious meal! At the final stop, “Café Vanda, 99,” I relaxed with coffee and shaved ice topped with homemade red bean paste made from Korean-grown beans. Enjoying sweet dessert with a view of the sea made for a perfect end to the day.

Café Vanda 99 Address: 579 Gyeonggam-ro, Gyeongju-si Inquiries: +82-54-748-3456  View details