Chuseok, also known as the Harvest Moon Festival, is one of South Korea’s most significant holidays, celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. It’s a time when families come together to honor their ancestors, celebrate the bountiful harvest, and enjoy a well-deserved break. Gyeongju, with its rich historical and cultural backdrop, offers a perfect setting to experience Chuseok in all its traditional glory. Here’s your comprehensive guide to celebrating Chuseok in Gyeongju.
Chuseok, often referred to as Korean Thanksgiving, is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. It usually falls in late September or early October, marking the time of year when the full moon is at its brightest and the harvest is at its peak.
Traditionally, Chuseok is a time for families to gather, pay homage to their ancestors through rituals known as “charye”, share food, and play traditional games. The festival’s main activities include clearing and visiting ancestral graves (beolcho and seongmyo), making and sharing songpyeon (crescent-shaped rice cakes), and feasting on a variety of other traditional Korean dishes.
Gyeongju, known as the “museum without walls”, is a city steeped in history, making it an ideal destination to celebrate Chuseok. The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD), Gyeongju boasts numerous cultural and historical sites that come alive during the festival.
Gyeongju is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, that hold special significance during Chuseok. Traditional performances, such as masked dances and folk music, are often held at these sites, providing visitors a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
No Chuseok celebration is complete without indulging in traditional Korean foods. Special festive dishes include songpyeon (crescent-shaped rice cakes filled with sweet fillings), jeon (savory pancakes), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and various types of banchan (side dishes). Many local restaurants and families in Gyeongju prepare these delicacies, and some even offer cooking classes for tourists who want to learn the art of making Chuseok foods.
One of the most important customs of Chuseok is visiting and maintaining ancestral graves. Beolcho (clearing weeds around graves) and seongmyo (a ritual of respect at graves) are integral parts of the festival. Gyeongju’s historical sites, such as the Royal Tombs, provide a serene and meaningful setting for these rituals.
Finding the right place to stay during Chuseok is crucial to fully enjoy the festival. Gyeongju offers a variety of accommodation options, from traditional hanok stays to modern hotels and guesthouses. Here are some top recommendations:
Getting to Gyeongju for Chuseok is fairly straightforward, with multiple transport options available:
Gyeongju is well-connected by KTX (Korea Train eXpress) and other express trains. The travel time from Seoul to Gyeongju is approximately 2.5 hours by KTX. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the holiday season.
Intercity buses are another viable option, with frequent services from major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. Though slower than the train, buses offer a more scenic route and are budget-friendly.
Once in Gyeongju, public transportation options include buses, taxis, and bike rentals. Biking can be a delightful way to explore the city, especially during the cool autumn weather.
For an authentic Chuseok experience, consider staying with a local family or booking a hanok stay. Participating in family gatherings, rituals, and local festivities provides a deeper connection to Korean culture and traditions.
Many locals are welcoming and eager to share their customs with visitors, making it a memorable experience. Additionally, local tourism offices often have special programs for tourists, including folk performances, traditional games, and cultural workshops.
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