This blog provides travel information about the culture and nature of Korea.
Capturing the Perfect Night Shot at Woljeonggyo Bridge
Gyeongju, the thousand-year capital, offers iconic night views at sites likeDonggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Woljeonggyo Bridge.
Among these, let me introduce you to Woljeonggyo Bridge, where I recently took a stroll to soak in the night scenery. It is one of Gyeongju's premier night-view destinations, where the splendor of traditional Korean architecture meets the serene ambiance of the riverside.
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| Capturing the Perfect Night Shot at Woljeonggyo Bridge |
🏮 Woljeonggyo Bridge: A Scenic View of Lights
Woljeonggyo Bridge is a Silla-era structure that was meticulously restored in 2018 after 10 years of research and historical verification based on records from the Samguk Sagi (History of the Three Kingdoms). Known for its vibrant yet subtle lighting and tranquil atmosphere, it has become a must-visit destination. It is especially beloved by international tourists as a place where they can truly experience the classic beauty of Korea.
As you stroll along the illuminated path, you can admire the poetic scenery of Woljeonggyo Bridge and the traditional charm of Gyochon Hanok Village. At the stepping stones across Namcheon Stream, you can capture the bridge as it glows softly over the water. The golden reflection shimmering on the waves creates an illusion of time-traveling back to a night in the Silla Kingdom a thousand years ago.
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| Woljeonggyo Bridge: A Scenic View of Lights |
🚩Access & Tips
For parking, I used the Woljeonggyo Public Parking Lot. It’s conveniently located nearby and, best of all, it's free of charge. The area is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an easy and comfortable spot for everyone to enjoy the night view.
- Location: 274 Gyodong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongbuk
- Hours: 09:00 - 22:00 (Lights are turned on after sunset)
- Admission & Parking: Free of Charge
- Estimated Duration: Around 1 hour
- Parking Info: Woljeonggyo Public Parking Lot (153-5 Gyodong)
Woljeonggyo Munru (Gate Tower)
I used to think
Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond were the only go-to spots for night views in Gyeongju, but after looking into it, I realized many people visit this place as well. The night scenery, blended with the illumination, looks even more grand and beautiful. In particular, the way the elegant curves of the roof eaves are sharply silhouetted against the night sky under the lights is truly a masterpiece.
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| Woljeonggyo Munru (Gate Tower) |
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| Woljeonggyo Munru (Gate Tower) |
Looking up from beneath the gate tower, the structure and the bridge piers seem even more majestic, rising over two stories high. Although it is a historical building that even appears in the Samguk Sagi (History of the Three Kingdoms), its restoration gives it a sophisticated and clean, modern feel as well.
Tip: There is an exhibition hall on the second floor of the gate tower that showcases the restoration process. It’s worth stopping by before your night stroll to discover the architectural secrets of the Silla Kingdom.
The Dancheong and Pillars of Woljeonggyo
The subtle lighting and the evenly spaced pillars create a rhythmic pattern. The contrast between the blue Dancheong (traditional decorative coloring) and the red pillars is harmoniously balanced, creating a striking visual harmony.
A point that especially fascinates international visitors is the traditional joinery method, where the wooden pieces are interlocked without the use of a single nail. Why not create some wonderful memories and lasting impressions within this beautiful structure?
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| The Dancheong and Pillars of Woljeonggyo |
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| The Dancheong and Pillars of Woljeonggyo |
Gyochon Hanok Village Tree-lined Path
Crossing over to Gyochon Hanok Village and strolling along its tree-lined path, I caught sight of the streetlights, the bridge, and the moonlight all at once. The reflection of the lights on the stream made the atmosphere feel even brighter. Slowly walking along the village paths, it was a delight to admire the overlapping silhouettes of the Hanok (traditional Korean house) tiled roofs.
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| Gyochon Hanok Village |
As expected of an ancient city where tradition and history breathe, the scenery of Gyochon Hanok Village is truly captivating. The alleyways lined with stone-and-tile walls and the traditional roofs glowing under the lights add to the village's refined elegance. This village is also where the spirit of the "Choi Rich Family"—a family respected for their exceptional character and nobility—resides, making it a place of great educational value.
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| Gyochon Hanok Village |
The Path Traveled by Master Wonhyo
"Standing on the path where Wonhyo once walked." This must have been a romantic route for the Great Monk Wonhyo of the Silla Kingdom, as he famously crossed this path to meet Princess Yoseok.
Without an information sign like this, one might never have known, right? Perhaps it’s a reminder that our own lives and the memories we create today are just as precious as a scene from history. When you press the shutter on a path steeped in legend, the stories come to life in your photographs.
Daemongjae 1779
While walking through Gyochon Hanok Village, I peeked inside a glass building and saw rows of large clay jars. As it turns out, those are jars for brewing alcohol! Cheers!
Daemongjae? It’s a traditional Gyeongju Makgeolli, a heritage liquor passed down through the famous Gyeongju Choi Rich Family. It’s a fascinating place where you can get a glimpse into the brewing process of Makgeolli, widely known to international visitors as "Korean Rice Wine." Ah, I can’t believe I left without even getting a taste... I’ll definitely have to try it the next time I’m in Gyeongju!
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| Daemongjae 1779 |
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| Daemongjae 1779 |
Stepping Stone Hot Spot
This is the ultimate hot spot and the most romantic point of the trip. As you cross the stepping stones over Namcheon Stream, you can witness the true essence of Woljeonggyo Bridge reflected on the water. The beautiful lights shimmering on the surface look more elegant than ever.
Since so many people try to capture the night view from the stepping stones, you might have to wait your turn or carefully pass others. As water flows between the stones, please be mindful of your safety while taking photos. Be especially careful not to drop your smartphone!
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| Stepping Stone Hot Spot |
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| Stepping Stone Hot Spot |
"Woljeonggyo Night View: A Gyeongju Night You'll Regret Missing"
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| Woljeonggyo Night View |
It is a place where you can take a light, leisurely stroll through a spectacular night scene. Walking across Woljeonggyo Bridge, which boasts cool river breezes and brilliant illuminations, I added one more precious memory to my heart.
After exploring Woljeonggyo, I highly recommend visiting the nearby Cheomseongdae Observatory and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. It is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the unique and timeless atmosphere of Gyeongju.
