In South Korea, cherished cultural traditions and growing urbanisation are skillfully balanced. More than 900 traditional Buddhist temples, some of which are centuries old and hidden among the country’s many mountains, coexist peacefully with the steel skyscrapers and bustling cities. Even though Buddhism has a 1,700-year history in Korea, these serene, spiritual temples will provide you with a peaceful haven where you may meditate or reclaim your peace of mind.
Temple in South Korea
1. Bongeunsa Temple
One of Korea’s most well-known temples, Bongeunsa, is located in Seoul’s Gangnam neighbourhood, which is also known for its glitzy shopping scene and the PSY K-Pop song. It is tucked away among Samseong-highrises, dong to the north of the iconic COEX building, and receives roughly 10,000 visitors each day. They visit for its 3,479 Buddhist texts as well as, in some circumstances, the chance to spend the night. Enrol in a 48-hour programme to experience daily tea rituals, Buddhist services, and Zen meditation.
2. Haedong Yonggung Temple
The setting of Haedong Yonggung in the seaside city of Busan, perched on a rocky outcrop with views of waves tumbling in blue and white, is both distinctive and spectacular. Haedong Yonggung, which dates back to 1376 and was destroyed during the Japanese occupation but rebuilt in 1970, has long attracted tourists with the promise of its spectacular sunrises and artistically painted buildings. Be ready for crowds; it’s highly popular. Also, keep an eye out for the three-story pagoda’s four lion statues, which stand for joy, wrath, sadness, and happiness.
3. Tapsa Temple
Even though it isn’t very big, Tapsa’s surreal setting, which is surrounded by cliffs and mountain peaks, makes it a must-see on any South Korean vacation. You must first complete a beautiful hike through the North Jeolla Province’s Maysan (‘horse ear’) mountains before dozens of distinctive stone pagodas suddenly appear. They were constructed without mortar by a scholar in the late 1800s, and miraculously, they have endured the fierce local winds to this day. Don’t forget to bring your camera since it’s a spiritual event that happens once in a million.
4. Sudeoksa Temple
In the Deok Sung Shan Mountains, there is a 1,500-year-old temple with the main hall that has been declared as a national treasure. It is not often that you have the chance to visit a true national treasure. It is the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and a significant location in the history of Buddhism in the nation. By signing up for a temple stay, you may experience what it’s like to live as a monk: rise to the sound of bells at three in the morning, begin the day with chanting, and take pleasure in simple pleasures like meditation treks and hot spring baths.
5. Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa is maybe the most well-known temple in the entire nation. It is located off a cliff-hugging hairpin road in Gyeongju, the cultural hub of South Korea. You’ll understand why after only one visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spectacular setting is one thing, but there are also numerous elaborately painted buildings, vibrant lanterns, and graceful mature trees that add to the atmosphere (especially in autumn, when the foliage turns brilliant red). Follow the twisting path higher up the mountain after visiting the primary sight to reach the historic Seokguram Grotto.