
Gyerim Forest and Banwolseong Fortress Gyeongju
A tranquil, ancient forest in Gyeongju, legendary birthplace of the Gyeongju Kim clan, offering a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Gyerim Forest and Banwolseong Fortress Gyeongju
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, ancient forest in Gyeongju, legendary birthplace of the Gyeongju Kim clan, offering a peaceful escape.
"A well-protected grove of trees with local significance, offering a serene environment for a leisurely walk."

Free Entry & Quick Visit
Enjoy this serene spot for free! A leisurely walk takes about 30-60 minutes. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Perfectly located between Cheomseongdae & Gyeongju National Museum. :world_map:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Trees & Shaded Paths
Gyerim Forest
Wander through a dense grove of ancient trees offering a tranquil, shaded escape. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Legendary Birthplace
Gyerim Forest
Discover the legendary site where Kim Alji, founder of the Gyeongju Kim clan, was discovered. A place steeped in history.

Proximity to Royal Tombs
Adjacent to Royal Tombs Complex
Easily accessible from the ancient Royal Tombs, offering a natural contrast to the historical burial mounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Combine with History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Quick Visit
Enjoy this serene spot for free! A leisurely walk takes about 30-60 minutes. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Perfectly located between Cheomseongdae & Gyeongju National Museum. :world_map:
Appreciate the Legends
Learn about the 'Rooster Forest' legend and its connection to the Gyeongju Kim clan. :scroll:
Enjoy the Natural Beauty
Take in the unique tree shapes and the calm atmosphere. Great for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Quick Visit
Enjoy this serene spot for free! A leisurely walk takes about 30-60 minutes. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Perfectly located between Cheomseongdae & Gyeongju National Museum. :world_map:
Appreciate the Legends
Learn about the 'Rooster Forest' legend and its connection to the Gyeongju Kim clan. :scroll:
Enjoy the Natural Beauty
Take in the unique tree shapes and the calm atmosphere. Great for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gyerim Forest is praised for its serene natural beauty and historical significance, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors appreciate its free entry and convenient location near major Gyeongju attractions. Some note that while historically important, its visual impact might be subtle for those unfamiliar with its legends.
"Gyerim Forest, located in Gyeongju, South Korea, is a historic and scenic forest that holds deep cultural significance. Its name, Gyerim, meaning "a forest of cranes," comes from an ancient legend where cranes once roamed the area. The forest is a peaceful and picturesque space, often associated with the Silla Dynasty as it is near Gyerim's historical landmarks, including the birthplace of King Muyeol, one of the key figures in the Silla Kingdom.
The forest is famous for its dense trees, gently winding pathways, and quiet, serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat or a reflective walk in nature. It's also tied to Korean literary history, particularly the Gyerim poems, written by scholars and poets who were inspired by the surroundings.
In addition to its natural beauty, Gyerim Forest holds historical significance. The surrounding area features remnants from the Silla period, including the site of an old royal palace and other important archaeological sites. The forest provides a sense of stepping back in time, with its combination of nature, history, and tranquility."
Scott Nguyen
"A small, peaceful woodland located in Gyeongju, South Korea, and is historically significant as the legendary birthplace of Kim Alji, the founder of the Gyeongju Kim clan during the Silla Dynasty.
The forest is situated between Cheomseongdae Observatory and the Gyeongju National Museum, making it an easy stop when exploring other nearby attractions.
The name "Gyerim" means "Rooster Forest," derived from a legend in which a rooster's crowing led to the discovery of Kim Alji.
The forest is filled with ancient trees and offers a serene environment for a leisurely walk. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, shaded paths, and calm atmosphere, which provide a nice contrast to the historical sites in Gyeongju.
Gyerim Forest is free to visit and can be explored within 30 minutes to an hour. It is also close to other key attractions, such as the Royal Tombs and Wolseong Palace, making it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing in Gyeongju."
R
"There were interesting shapes of trees with nice angles...a forest. It might have been something special if we could have understood and appreciated some semblance of the allegoric history. It was obviously a well-protected grove of trees with local significance."
R K Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gyerim Forest is conveniently located in the heart of Gyeongju, between the Cheomseongdae Observatory and the Gyeongju National Museum. You can easily reach it by local bus or taxi from Gyeongju Station. Many visitors walk to it as part of a larger historical tour of the area.
Yes, Gyerim Forest is well-served by Gyeongju's public bus system. Several bus routes stop near the forest, making it easily accessible for tourists. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
Absolutely! Gyerim Forest is within walking distance of major sites like the Royal Tombs Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Gyeongju National Museum. It's ideal for creating a walking itinerary.
Gyerim Forest and Banwolseong Fortress are quite close to each other, often explored together. A short walk of about 5-10 minutes will take you between them, allowing you to easily combine your visit.
While Gyerim Forest itself is a natural area, there are parking lots available near the adjacent attractions like the Gyeongju National Museum and the Royal Tombs Complex, which you can use if you're arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gyerim Forest is a public natural area and does not require an entrance fee. You can explore its serene paths and enjoy its beauty completely free of charge.
Gyerim Forest is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as it's an outdoor natural space. You can visit at any time that suits your schedule.
While beautiful year-round, autumn offers stunning fall foliage, and spring brings pleasant weather. However, its evergreen nature makes it a lovely visit any season.
While there aren't specific guided tours solely for Gyerim Forest, many general Gyeongju historical tours will include a stop here. You can also explore independently and read up on its legends beforehand.
Generally, pets are allowed in Gyerim Forest, but it's always best to keep them on a leash and clean up after them to respect the natural environment and other visitors.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Gyerim Forest is primarily for leisurely walks, enjoying the natural scenery, and reflecting on its historical legends. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating nature's beauty.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour exploring Gyerim Forest, depending on how much they wish to linger and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Gyerim Forest itself is a natural grove and doesn't have dedicated facilities. However, restrooms and cafes are readily available at the nearby Gyeongju National Museum and along Hwangnidan-gil.
Yes, the unique tree shapes, dappled sunlight, and serene atmosphere make Gyerim Forest a picturesque spot for photography, especially during autumn.
The forest is known for its ancient, well-preserved trees, some with interesting shapes. They contribute to the serene and timeless atmosphere of the grove, enhancing its natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with interesting tree formations and where sunlight filters through the canopy. The winding paths also offer great leading lines for your shots.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the most beautiful light, with softer shadows and a golden glow that enhances the forest's natural beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Gyeongju National Museum for any restrictions before flying a drone in or around Gyerim Forest.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the forest, while a prime lens can be useful for isolating interesting tree details. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
The beauty of Gyerim Forest is in its immersive nature. Simply walking the paths and looking up at the canopy or down the winding trails offers the best 'viewpoints' to capture its essence.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's free and doesn't require a long time commitment, it's an ideal addition to a day of exploring Gyeongju's more extensive historical sites. Pack some snacks and water, and let the kids enjoy a peaceful wander before or after visiting the nearby Royal Tombs or the Gyeongju National Museum.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of independent exploration. Use it as a peaceful interlude between visiting museums, tombs, and other historical sites. The forest offers a chance to recharge and appreciate the natural beauty that complements the ancient architecture.
📸 Photographers
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. The forest's tranquility also allows for unhurried composition. It's a great location for capturing intimate nature scenes or adding a touch of natural beauty to your Gyeongju portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Gyerim Forest
Visitors can feel this historical weight as they walk among the ancient trees. The forest's serene atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for contemplating these ancient stories. It's a reminder of Gyeongju's rich past as the capital of the Silla Kingdom, a period of significant cultural and political development in Korea. The forest serves as a quiet testament to these foundational myths.
Connecting Nature and History
Walking through the forest offers a natural respite from the more structured historical sites. The dense trees and winding paths provide a sense of discovery, much like uncovering the layers of history in the nearby tombs and palaces. The forest's tranquil environment allows for reflection on the Silla Dynasty's achievements and the enduring legacy of its rulers. It’s a place where nature and history coexist harmoniously, offering a holistic Gyeongju experience.
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