What Makes Anapji Pond One of Gyeongju’s Most Beautiful Spots

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How to Visit the Anapji Pond In Gyeongju

Kids play with fluorescent toys as they bounce along the paved trail that winds around Anapji Pond, the former pleasure garden. This path allows you to view the Silla Dynasty palace from every angle possible. Sit on a bench—but not on the grass—and watch the parade of people strolling by. The three islands, once home to royalty, are now a vibrant public park.

Table of Contents

• How to Visit the Anapji Pond in Gyeongju
• When to Visit
• Why You Should Visit
• Where We Stayed
• Directions and Entrance Fees
• Like it? Pin it!

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How to Visit the Anapji Pond In Gyeongju

When to Visit

All the reviews of 7th c. Anapji Pond and Palace suggest you visit after sunset, and for good reason–it’s stunning. Situated around three tiny islands surrounded by an artificial pond, the lighted pagodas’ shimmering reflections in the water are amplified under a black cloudless sky.

They told me that the park is especially beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are full.

Why You Should Visit

Gyeongju was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty. It has remnants of its former glory lay all over this pretty college town. Although fire destroyed the palace in the 10th century, archaeologists recently discovered many remnants in the man-made pond. As a matter of fact, Anapji Pond still maintains its original footprint. Archaeologists found a piece of pottery with the name “Wolji” inscribed on it. The meaning of “Wolji” is “pond that reflects the sky,” prompting the change of the park’s name from Anapji to Wolji.

After the fall of the Silla dynasty, it lay in ruins. The Goryeong and the last dynasty, Joseon, replaced the Silla’s.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the Apple Motel. It’s a 2-star motel owned by the sweetest young couple. Keep in mind the beds are hard, but for about $20, its well worth a cheap weekend trip to the Silla Capital.

Directions and Entrance Fees

There is a 4000￦ entrance fee.

102 Wonhwa-ro, Wolseong-dong, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea from 9 AM–10 PM. +82 54-772-4041 for more information or enter into GPS.

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