Cheomseongdae Observatory

경주 첨성대 · Gyeongbuk · Viewpoints

Cheomseongdae Observatory, constructed during the reign of Queen Seondeok (r. 632-647), is one of the landmarks of Gyeongju. The observatory was built in a cylinder shape at approximately 9 meters in height. The observatory consists of 365 stones, symbolizing the number of days in a year. The rocks are piled in 27 layers symbolizing the 27th ruler, Queen Seondeok, and the days in a lunar month by adding the of two rock layers on top.◎ Travel information to meet Hallyu’s charm - "A Good Day to Be a Dog"Cheomseongdae Observatory, where Bo-gyeom and Ji-ah, bound by a special fate, encounter each other, is the landmark that represents the city of Gyeongju and one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world. In addition to its superlative value as a historical site, it is also popular as a tourist destination thanks to flowers and plants that bloom each season.

Getting there

From Korea Tourism Organization open data. Opening hours and admission can change — check the official page before you go.

On nearby while you're here

Events run on fixed dates — check these against your own trip. Trip Planner shows everything on for the days you are in Korea.

• Sep 18, 2026 – Sep 20, 2026Gyeongju Heritage Night Walk · right next door
• Jun 12, 2026 – Oct 11, 2026Sarira Reliquary from the Hwangnyongsa Wooden Pagoda · 900 m walk
• Jun 12, 2026 – Oct 11, 2026Hwangnyongsa: Enshrining the Buddha's Relics · 900 m walk
• Sep 19, 2026Gyeongju Golden Carnival · 1000 m walk

Within walking distance

600 m walk

Gyeongju Wolseong Palace Site (Banwolseong Fortress) (경주 월성(반월성))

700 m walk

Gyeongju Historic Area [UNESCO World Heritage]

800 m walk

Gyeongju Hwangnidan Street

900 m walk

Cheonmachong Tomb (Daereungwon Ancient Tombs) (천마총(대릉원))

900 m walk

Gyeongju Hanbokpan

900 m walk

Gyeongju Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex

900 m walk

Gyeongju Ssambap Street

900 m walk

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond