The Gyeongju National Park in South Korea features among the 20 best National Parks in South Korea. It came to be treated as a National Park in the year 1968. The National Park is divided into several areas for the convenience of the visitors. Since the Gyeongju district is divided in seven sectors the Gyeongju National Park is demarcated accordingly. To the west lie Gumisan and Danseoksan sections. In the heart of Gyeongju lie Hwarang, Seo-ok, Namsan and Sogeumgang areas. Tohamsan lies in the east and on the coast of Sea of Japan lies Daebon.
Features of Gyeongju National Park in South Korea
- The Gyeongju National Park is dedicated to preserve the cultural relics of the Silla Dynasty and the Gyeongju city.
- The Namsan district of the Gyeongju National Park has Buddhist statues, stone Pagodas and nearly 100 temples. The Poseokjeong Pavillion which was built by the king as a venue for having feasts can also be found here.
- The Daebon District is the location for king Munmu's tomb. A three story stone Pagoda, Gameunsaji was built as a mark of appraisal of the great king and is also located here.
- The Tohamsan District of Gyeongju National Park is famous for its innumerable tourist attractions. This area houses the Bulguksa Temple which was built during the glorious ruling days of King Beopheung of the Silla Dynasty. Two beautiful pagodas, the Seokga Pagoda and the Dabo Pagoda are also located in the same district. Both the pagodas enjoy national and international fame.
- The well known Korean Buddhist statuary, Seokguram with its timeless engravings lies in the east side of Tohamsan.
- The downtown area of Gyeongju has some more monuments and places to explore. The Cheomseongdae Observatory built during the reign of Queen Seon Deok is one such memorial. Places to be visited include the Anapji Pond and the Gyerim Forest. Gyerim was initially used as the country name for Silla.