Gyeongju, South Korea

In the 8th century, about 100000 Koreans lived in Gyeongju, a coastal city filled with Buddhist art and temples. For a period of three centuries in which the entire country was one, with Gyeongju as their capital, and where lead by the powerful Silla Dynasty. Today, a population of 150,000 Koreans call Gyeongju home. However, more than five million tourists come during the year to visit the place where Korea was born.

Culture:

Gyeongju is a place that is very rich in culture. I believe the culture of a place gives it it's charm, so let's learn about the culture in this beautiful place.

Cuisine:

In Gyeongju, you can see many food stands on the street. They tend to serve the local specialties; such as Gyeongju Ssambap. I would recommend trying the following: Hwangnamppang , Gyeongju Chalborippang , Gyeongju Chalborippang , and something I mentioned earlier Gyeongju Ssambap. Also visit this site : http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?gotoPage=1&cid=996701&out_service=.

Must See Places:

The Silla Tombs

In the center of Gyeongju, a city park contains more than 20 tombs made of stone. In one tomb removed in 1973, more than 11,000 objects of cultural and historical value were found

Mount Namsan

Not far from Gyeongju, this rocky mountain has plenty of temples and rock reliefs. Many items of artistic and cultural importance can be viewed here

Cheomseongdae (A.K.A Tower of the Moon and Stars)

It was built by Queen Seondeok, one of only three female rulers in the Dynasty. She was highly recognized by her intelligence. In the seventh century, she built this bottled shaped tower, as an instrument for studying the night sky.

Kyoto, Japan

In Japan, Korea's over-seas neighbor, Kyoto became this beautiful county's

Capital during the end of the 8th century. During the next 1,000, more than 1,600 religious buildings were built such as temples, shrines, and gardens. In 1994, 17 properties were identified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each one in outstanding condition. Although today a modern city with big crowds and heavy traffic, the present Kyoto is still heavily influenced by tradition. Everything here is an elegant form of art.

Culture:

As I mentioned before... Kyoto is a place that is very rich in culture. I will mention a little bit of it.

Cuisine:

In Kyoto; even the food is a work of art. The food is served in the most beautiful and delicate presentation possible. I am sure that your mouth will water when you read about these: Mamezen Soba , Mid-Winter Wagashi , and more. If you wish to read more about these delicious cuisines, read this page: http://kyotofoodie.com/category/kyoto-cuisine/.

Must See Places:

Gion: This place is very famous as the home of one of Japan's most ancient and elegant ways of performance art: Geisha. For hundreds of years, geisha women have been a popular sight in Kyoto, entertaining audiences with their gentle songs and dances in theaters and teahouses around Gion.

Ryoanji Temple: Fifteen rocks have been cautiously set around this Buddhist dry garden- yet from all viewpoints, only 14 can be spotted. Some tourists travel here to relax, while others come to look beyond it's surface in search for a much deeper meaning.