The breath of thousand-year Silla, blooming in modern times: Gyeongju Donggungwon Exploration Guide

Have you ever imagined that a thousand years ago, the Silla royal palace already cultivated exotic flowers and rare birds? The place where the splendid story of the ancient Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond is reinterpreted with a modern sensibility and comes to life is none other than **Gyeongju Donggungwon**. More than just a botanical garden or zoo, it is a special place located at the entrance of the Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Complex, where you can experience Silla’s wisdom and love for nature with all five senses.

Based on records that our ancestors first cultivated flowers and various rare animals, this place, born from the rich historical stories unique to Gyeongju, is a four-season experiential tourist facility that has bloomed anew on the former site of an agricultural experimental station. It offers not just a viewing experience, but an ecstatic feeling as if you’ve traveled back in time to the Silla era.

Created through the development of new tourism content, **Gyeongju Donggungwon** goes beyond being a simple botanical garden or bird park by storytelling Gyeongju’s long-standing historical background, offering visitors unforgettable memories and profound inspiration. So, shall we begin a sensory journey to the Silla royal garden right now?

The Wisdom of the Silla Royal Court Blooms in Donggung Botanical Garden

Donggung Botanical Garden, one of the core attractions of **Gyeongju Donggungwon**, is a space that modernly recreates the spirit of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, which was Korea’s first zoological and botanical garden. Located at the entrance of the Bomun Tourist Complex, it offers excellent accessibility, and you can enjoy lush plants indoors all year round, making it a great place to visit regardless of the weather. It is also a valuable space where you can get a glimpse into Silla’s agricultural technology and its love for nature.

A Feast of Tropical Plants: Recommended Viewing Route

Donggung Botanical Garden is divided into several themed gardens, offering a variety of attractions. For an efficient viewing experience, follow the recommended route and listen to the stories each zone holds.

• Exhibition Hall 1 Main Building (Palm Garden, Flowering Tree Garden, etc.): Amidst the refreshingly soaring palm trees, you can enjoy an exotic atmosphere as if you’ve arrived in a tropical region. Various flowers delight your eyes and nose, and you’ll marvel at the vitality of mysterious plants.
• Exhibition Hall 2 Special Hall (Aquatic Plants, Cacti, etc.): The harmony of beautiful plants blooming in water and resilient cacti thriving even in dry environments is impressive. The small pond and charming landscaping are perfect for taking photos.
• Themed Photo Zones: Capture memorable photos at the photo zones located throughout the botanical garden. The resting area, especially with its waterfall, is a great place to take a break and enjoy nature.

Each themed garden provides detailed information on the names and characteristics of mysterious plants, making it an excellent nature learning ground for children and an opportunity for adults to rediscover the wonders of plants.

Art in Flight, Encountered at Gyeongju Bird Park

Another charm of **Gyeongju Donggungwon** is the Gyeongju Bird Park. Inspired by the historical fact that bird names were used in Silla’s official titles, this is a specialized bird zoo that modernly embodies the ‘Jingeumisu (眞禽異獸)’ spirit of Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, which was Korea’s first zoological and botanical garden. Here, you can encounter various rare birds from around the world up close.

New Experiences: Bird Park Enjoyment Checklist

1. Participate in Experiential Learning Programs: Engage in diverse programs such as feeding experiences and bird explanations to have a special time interacting with birds. It’s especially popular with children.
2. Observe the Free-Flight Aviary: The sight of birds flying freely overhead is a painting in itself. Observe the lively birds as if they are living in their natural habitat.
3. Explore Rare Birds: Encountering rare birds like parrots, flamingos, and eagles that are difficult to see elsewhere and learning about their ecology is also an interesting experience.
4. Visit the Bird Park Souvenir Shop: Browse cute bird character merchandise or bird-related souvenirs to cherish memories of your visit.

Beyond simply observing birds, the Bird Park is also an educational space where you can understand bird habits and ecology and feel the preciousness of life. The chirping sounds of colorful birds bring peace to the listener’s heart.

Gyeongju Donggungwon, How to Get There?

**Gyeongju Donggungwon**, located at the entrance of the Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Complex, is easily accessible by public transportation and private car. When planning your trip, it’s a good idea to create an efficient itinerary by connecting it with nearby tourist attractions.

Location and Directions

For the exact address and location of Gyeongju Donggungwon, please refer to the Map below. If you come by car, ample parking space is available for your convenience. For public transportation, you can easily arrive by taking a city bus heading towards the Bomun Tourist Complex.

Nearby Places to Visit Together

• Bomun Lake Trail: You can enjoy a stroll along the Bomun Lake right next to Donggungwon and admire the beautiful scenery. It boasts fantastic scenery, especially during cherry blossom season.
• Gyeongju World: If you want to enjoy thrilling rides, visit the nearby Gyeongju World. It offers fun for families, friends, and couples alike.
• Expo Grand Park: It is a complex cultural space featuring various cultural events, exhibitions, and park facilities. Unique events are held each season.
• Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (formerly Anapji Pond): This is the actual historical site that served as the motif for Donggungwon. At night, the lights turn on, allowing you to enjoy an even more beautiful night view.

Gyeongju Donggungwon, Useful Information to Check Before Your Visit

Here are some tips for a satisfying visit to **Gyeongju Donggungwon**. If you check in advance, you’ll be able to have an even more enjoyable and comfortable time.

Checklist for a Fruitful Visit

1. Check Operating Hours and Closing Days: Be sure to check the exact operating hours and closing days on the official website before your visit. They may vary by season.
2. Be Aware of Admission Fees: Admission fees vary by age (adults, teenagers, children), and group discounts or Gyeongju resident discounts may apply, so it’s good to check this information in advance. It is a paid admission facility.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing more walking than you might expect to explore the botanical garden and bird park. Comfortable shoes are essential.
4. Prepare Strollers/Wagons if Visiting with Children: If you’re with young children, it’s advisable to prepare a stroller or wagon for ease of movement. Also, check if rental services are available.
5. Prepare for Photography: Both the botanical garden and bird park have many beautiful landscapes and cute birds, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Fully charge your battery and prepare an extra memory card.

Especially in the indoor botanical garden, which is kept warm year-round, you can feel as if it’s a warm spring day even in the middle of winter. We hope you enjoy the beauty of nature in a pleasant environment and create precious memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is Gyeongju Donggungwon indoors or outdoors?
Gyeongju Donggungwon largely consists of Donggung Botanical Garden (indoors) and Gyeongju Bird Park (mixed indoor/outdoor). The botanical garden operates indoors, allowing for pleasant viewing regardless of the weather, while the bird park includes indoor exhibition halls and some outdoor facilities.

Q2. Are there places to eat at Gyeongju Donggungwon?
Within Donggungwon, there are cafes and souvenir shops selling simple food and beverages. If you desire a full meal, there are many restaurants around the Bomun Complex, which you may find helpful.

Q3. Is it good to visit with children?
Yes, Donggung Botanical Garden allows for nature learning through observing various plants, and Gyeongju Bird Park offers experiential programs such as bird feeding, making it an excellent place to visit with children. You can have both an educational and enjoyable time.

Q4. Are the parking facilities good?
Gyeongju Donggungwon has ample parking space, so visitors coming by car can use it conveniently. It’s advisable to check whether parking is paid or free, as this may vary depending on your visit date.

Q5. How long does a visit usually take?
If you leisurely explore both Donggung Botanical Garden and Gyeongju Bird Park, and participate in experiential programs, it may take approximately 2-3 hours. It can be shorter or longer depending on individual interests.