Things To Do
in Gyeongsan

Gyeongsan is a vibrant city located in the southeastern region of South Korea, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is situated near the historic city of Gyeongju, making it an ideal base for exploring ancient sites and natural attractions. The city boasts numerous parks, temples, and educational institutions, contributing to its lively atmosphere.

Gyeongsan also hosts various festivals throughout the year, reflecting the local traditions and community spirit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Gyeongsan Confucian School, where you can learn about Confucian teachings and enjoy the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Beomeosa Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains, for some sightseeing and meditation.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Korean BBQ, followed by a leisurely walk along the peaceful Gyeongsan River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the scenic Mount Chaesung, known for its breathtaking views and lush trails.

afternoon
:

After hiking, visit the Gyeongsan Folk Museum to explore the region's cultural history through various exhibits.

evening
:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife by visiting local pubs and cafes near the university area, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and possibly catch live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$7
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚍One-way bus ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$50
🥡Street food snack$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transportation can be confusing for first-time visitors.
  • Some attractions may be less accessible without a vehicle.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "죄송합니다" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "얼마에요?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Gyeongsan

Visit one of these nice places.

Gyeongsan River

A picturesque spot ideal for capturing sunset views, with beautiful reflections on the water.

Beomeosa Temple

Stunning architecture and serene surroundings make this temple a perfect backdrop for photos.

Mount Chaesung

Offers panoramic views of the city and is especially beautiful during sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gyeongsan

Gyeongsan offers a delightful culinary experience with its variety of local dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.

Gyeongsan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sundae

A popular Korean dish made from steamed cow or pig intestines stuffed with noodles, rice, and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Kimchi Jjigae

A spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, pork, and various vegetables, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gyeongsan Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of local produce, snacks, and street food stalls selling items like tteokbokki and hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gyeongsan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and mild spring and autumn. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is most common in the summer months, particularly during the monsoon season, while the winter months may bring occasional snow.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Korean culture, showing respect to elders is important; greet them first and use appropriate honorifics.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gyeongsan is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It is advisable to stay informed about local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospitals.

Tipping in Gyeongsan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in restaurants and stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit as cherry blossoms bloom, especially in parks and along the river.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Autumn

Autumn presents a stunning display of fall foliage, particularly around the mountains and temples.

Winter

Winters can be cold, and it may snow, providing a beautiful winter landscape, perfect for photography.

Nightlife Guide

Gyeongsan at Night

Gyeongsan's nightlife is lively, especially around the university area, where you can find a variety of bars, pubs, and karaoke rooms. Many places offer live music and themed nights, catering to students and young professionals. The atmosphere is generally friendly, and you can expect to find both local and international options for entertainment.

Hiking in Gyeongsan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Chaesung Trail

This popular trail offers a moderate hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Suseong Lake Trail

A scenic trail surrounding Suseong Lake, perfect for a leisurely hike and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Gyeongsan by plane.

Daegu International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Gyeongsan, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gyeongsan is quite walkable, especially in the city center and around university areas where many amenities are concentrated. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some hilly areas may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Gyeongsan's population consists of university students, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Gyeongsan, enjoying the city's parks, schools, and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in South Korea, and local games often draw enthusiastic crowds.

Football (Soccer)

Football is another favorite sport, with local clubs and matches attracting significant attention.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gyeongsan can be moderate, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are widely available and relatively affordable. The city is also connected to Daegu by subway, making it easy to travel between the two locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gyeongsan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Korean cuisine often includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in larger cities.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice dishes and certain stews can usually be adapted.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gyeongsan is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many doctors speak basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide