The most famous temple in Korea, Bulguksa sits in forested hills outside Gyeongju, about an hour by bus from Ulsan. Built by Kim Dae-seong in 751 and restored to its present form in 1973, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 — and it deserves the listing.
The main pavilion holds the Daewoongjeon hall, symbolising Buddha's land on earth, and Geukrakjeon hall, representing a land of perfect bliss. In the courtyard between them stand two stone pagodas: the ornate Dabotap (National Treasure No. 20, 10.4 metres tall) and the elegant three-storey Seokgatap. Other national treasures include gilt bronze seated Buddhas in the side halls.
Visit off-season if you can. In winter, when frost coats the stone and weak sunlight catches the ice, the temple is magical — the picture of East Asia you always had in your mind.
The nearby Seokguram Grotto, a short hike or bus ride further up the mountain, is another must-see: a domed stone chamber housing a serene seated Buddha gazing out toward the East Sea.
Getting there: Express bus to Gyeongju, then city bus 10 or 11 from outside the bus terminal (runs in both directions past the main tourist sites, about 40 minutes). Trains also run to Gyeongju station.