Daereungwon Tomb Complex (Cheonmachong) 대릉원·천마총
Gyeongju · Daereungwon, Hwangnidan-gil & Downtown · Sights
Twenty-odd royal and aristocratic tombs rise like green hills in the middle of downtown, with paved paths looping between them. Only one, Cheonmachong, can be entered, and inside you will find a replica of the gold crown and the painted horse motif that gave the tomb its name. In spring, a magnolia tree in front of a mound draws photographers from early morning, and cherry blossoms along the outer wall add to the show.
Entry costs a small fee that may change, and cards are usually accepted at the ticket window; ask whether English leaflets are available. Pair the visit with a stroll out the west gate into the cafes of Hwangnidan-gil.
From Gyeongju Bus Terminal it is about a 15-minute walk, or take a city bus to the Daereungwon stop. If you drive, use the public parking lots near Hwangnidan-gil. (Show a driver: 대릉원)
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 대릉원·천마총
- Best time to visit
- Go right at opening or on a weekday morning for empty paths; late March is the prettiest, when the magnolias bloom.
- Pair it with
- Cheomseongdae Observatory and Hwangnidan-gil Street are both about five minutes away, with Jeongrok Ssambap just outside the gate for lunch.
- Great for
- Couples, Families with kids, Parents, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- You can walk inside Cheonmachong, the one opened tomb, and see the display of its contents. Go early to avoid queues at the magnolia photo spot in spring; check on site for English leaflets.