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Destinations Discover The Soulful Charms Of South Korea's Buddhist Temples
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Discover The Soulful Charms Of South Korea's Buddhist Temples

Explore South Korea's most captivating temples, celebrated for their intricate traditional architecture and profound cultural legacy.

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By: Ruchit Rastogi Published: Jan 14, 2024 04:00 PM IST

Discover The Soulful Charms Of South Korea's Buddhist Temples
Image Credit: Zoran Karapancev/Shutterstock

Temples in South Korea offer serene retreats steeped in rich cultural heritage. These ancient sites, nestled in lush forests, on mountains, or near tranquil streams, are more than just places of worship; they represent the historical essence of the country, with many dating back to the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties. Their architecture, characterised by vibrant colours and intricate woodwork, harmoniously blends with nature.

These temples in South Korea are also vibrant cultural centres, hosting a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Serving as gateways for both international tourists and locals, these temples in South Korea offer unique experiences like temple stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Buddhist monastic life and participate in meditation and other traditional ceremonies.

Temples and tales: The most beautiful temples in South Korea

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
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Perched between a mountain and the sea in Korea, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple dates back to 1376. Built by the revered Buddhist teacher Naong during the Goryeo dynasty, it stands out as a rare example of a Buddhist temple by the sea. The temple houses a special Buddhist sanctum inside a cave on the right side of the main sanctuary and features a three-tiered pagoda with four lions representing different emotions joy, anger, sadness, and happiness.

A highlight is the ascent of 108 steps and the presence of stone lanterns along the rugged terrain. Rebuilt in 1970 after wartime destruction, the temple is renowned for its vibrant sunrises and colourful architecture. It attracts visitors seeking New Year blessings and glows enchantingly during Buddha’s birthday festivities in the fourth lunar month.

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Tapsa Temple

Temples in South Korea
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Shrouded in mystery, Tapsa Temple is famous for its numerous ancient stone towers, built uniquely without mortar or supports. Located a short 1.9 km hike from Maisan Mountain’s southern parking area in Jeollanam-do, these towers vary in shape from cone-like to straight structures. The most prominent, Cheonjitap, consists of two twin towers standing at 13.5 metres each, oriented north and south.

Initially numbering 120, only 80 towers remain today. Legend has it that Lee Gapyong single-handedly constructed them in the late 1800s, gathering stones by day and building at night. Remarkably, despite being over a century old and facing strong winds, the towers have neither collapsed nor shifted. The temple is also a popular spot for its springtime cherry blossoms, and a white statue of its creator, Yi Gap Yong, stands guard over the timeless structures.

Taeansa Temple

Taeansa Temple
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Nestled at the base of Dongnisan Mountain, Taeansa Temple was established by three monks during King Gyeongdeok’s era of the Silla dynasty. Later, Monk Hyecheol expanded the temple to 132 rooms during the reign of Goryeo Taejo, making it a key educational centre in the Dongnisan Mountain region.

The approach to the temple is a scenic 2.3-kilometre drive, offering picturesque views throughout the year. For visitors, nearby points of interest include the Neungpa Tower, located close to the Dongli Mountain valley, and the Gok-song Haneul Nari Village, a five-kilometre drive away.

Suguksa Temple

temples in South Korea
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Nestled in northwest Seoul, Suguksa Temple traces its history back to 1459 when King Sejo built it to honour his son, Crown Prince Uigyeong, who passed away at a young age. Originally named Jeonginsa, it later earned the moniker Suguksa, meaning “the temple that protects the country”.

In 1712, it assumed the role of the guardian temple for the royal tombs of King Sukjong and Queen Inhyeon. Despite facing a destructive fire, the temple experienced a revival in 1900. Today, Suguksa Temple stands out with its front adorned in special golden paper, while its other sides are painted in gold.

Seokbulsa Temple

Seokbulsa Temple
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Seokbulsa Temple, a secluded gem near Busan, is also known as the “Stone Buddha Temple”. Founded in the 1930s by Monk Jo Ilhyeon, this tranquil sanctuary was originally called Byeongpungam Hermitage. Uniquely perched on a ridge connecting the Geumjeongsan and Baegyangsan Mountains, surrounded by impressive rock walls, the temple is famed for its striking statues. Notable figures include the 11-faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and a seated Maitreya Buddha.

The temple features two bell pavilions, with the larger housing a notable Brahma Bell. It’s home to many Buddha statues, such as the Four Guardian Kings, the wall-carved Bhaisajyaguru and Vairocana, and the Sakyamuni Buddha. The main hall holds a solitary Seokgamoni-bull statue, while the upper floor showcases a collection of bronze Buddha figures, anchored by Birojana-bull.

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Baegyangsa Temple

Temples in South Korea
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Dating back to 632 AD in the Baekje Dynasty, Baegyangsa Temple resides in Naejangsan National Park. Rebuilt in 1574, with subsequent renovations, it earned the moniker “White Sheep Temple”, inspired by a legend of sheep drawn to sutra readings. Cultural assets like Daeungjeon Hall and Sacheonwangmun Gate contribute to the temple’s significance. The main hall, redone in 1917, showcases exquisite murals of Nahan (Buddha’s disciples) and Buddhist scenes.

A notable nine-story pagoda stands behind the Daeung-jeon Hall. Inside, the altar houses a central Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha) statue, accompanied by Munsu-bosal (Bodhisattva of Wisdom) and Bohyeon-bosal (Bodhisattva of Power).

Beomeosa Temple

Beomeosa Temple
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Perched on Busan’s Geumjeongsan Mountain, Beomeosa Temple traces its roots back to the Silla Dynasty under King Munmu. Famous for its scenic surroundings, the temple features unique elements like ancient flagpole supports and a rare mounting stone, symbolising over 1,300 years of history and paying homage to monks from the Joseon Dynasty.

The Jogyemun Gate, requiring visitors to bow, showcases mid-Joseon Dynasty architecture, symbolising humility. Inside, Daeungjeon Hall is adorned with Buddha paradise paintings, while the entrance’s stone lanterns, carved with lotus flowers, reflect the late Unified Silla style, embodying elegance and simplicity.

Tongdosa Temple

Tongdosa Temple
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Tongdosa Temple, a renowned gem in Korea, embodies the essence of enlightenment and Buddha’s teachings. Unusual for not having a large Buddha statue either inside its main hall or on its grounds, it’s often known as “The Temple without a Buddha”. Established in 646 C.E. by Master Jajang, Tongdosa is more than just a temple; it’s also a treasure trove of over 800 cultural assets and more.

As South Korea’s largest temple complex with 65 structures, its serene environment, dotted with pavilions, pagodas, and stone lanterns, reflects the tranquillity pursued by Seon monks. Tongdosa is a key monastic training centre in Korea and is celebrated as a relic temple, housing Buddha’s relics. Remarkably, its Beopdeung (temple candle) has been continuously lit for over a millennium.

Bongwonsa Temple

Temples in South Korea
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Situated on the edge of Ansan Mountain in Bongwon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, the historic Bongwonsa Temple dates back to 889 AD. With over a millennium of history, this temple is part of the Taego Order, a major Korean Buddhist sect. A notable feature within the temple is a 500-year-old pagoda tree.

Bongwonsa is renowned for its beautiful lotus pond, making it a picturesque site. Each summer, the temple hosts the ‘Seoul Lotus Flower Cultural Festival’, inviting people to experience the beauty of lotuses. Additionally, on June 6 every year, the temple celebrates ‘Yeongsanjae’, a cultural event featuring traditional Buddhist temple music (Beompae) and dance, offering visitors a glimpse into Buddhist arts.

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Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple
Image Credit: Zoran Karapancev/Shutterstock

Jogyesa, the central temple of Korea’s Jogye Buddhist Order, was originally established as Gakhwangsa Temple in 1910 during the period of Japanese occupation. Unlike many of South Korea’s famous temples located in the mountains, Jogyesa stands out amid Seoul’s urban landscape.

Adorned with red and gold, Jogyesa offers a unique temple stay experience focused on meditation and relaxation. Participants in the programme engage in activities like Buddhist services, shared work, participating in tea ceremonies, and creating lotus lanterns. Additionally, the temple is a key location for the annual Lotus Lantern Festival to celebrate Buddha’s birthday. During this festival, vibrant lanterns illuminate both the temple and the main streets of Seoul, creating a festive atmosphere.

Golgulsa temple

Temples in South Korea
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Golgulsa Temple carved into a limestone cliff on Hamwol Mountain, is renowned for being a training centre for Sunmudo, a unique combination of Zen and martial arts passed down through the ages. This temple is home to 12 sizable limestone caves and features a prominent Buddha relief carved into the uppermost part of the cliff.

For those interested in experiencing Sunmudo firsthand, Golgulsa Temple offers a temple stay programme where visitors can participate in this martial arts training.

Waujeongsa Temple

Waujeongsa Temple
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Founded in 1970 by Kim Hae-Geun, the Waujeongsa Temple stands as a symbol of hope for the reunification of Korea and is the birthplace of the Korean Buddhist Nirvana Order.

Notably, at the entrance, visitors are greeted by the Buldu, the largest Buddha head sculpture, and within the temple, a significant Wabul (reclining Buddha statue), crafted from an Indonesian juniper tree, measures 3 metres high and 12 metres long.

Bongeunsa Temple

Temples in South Korea
Image Credit: CJ Nattanai/Shutterstock

Situated on Sudo Mountain’s slopes, the ancient Bongeunsa Temple, established in 794, is renowned for its towering 23-metre Maitreya Buddha statue. The temple houses an extensive collection of over 3,000 Buddhist scriptures across 13 categories.

Every year, monks perform the Jeongdaebulsa ceremony on the eighth lunar month’s ninth day, a ritual involving a procession with scriptures and reciting Beopseongge (Buddhist rites). For a unique experience, visitors can partake in a 48-hour program that offers a glimpse into monastic life, including tea ceremonies, Buddhist services, and Zen meditation.

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(Feature image credit: Zoran Karapancev/Shutterstock) 

Related: Icons Of Devotion: The Most Unique Churches And Temples In The World You Need to See

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Are there entrance fees for visiting temples in South Korea?
Most Buddhist temples in South Korea are free to visit, such as Seoul’s Bongeunsa Temple. While entry is typically without charge, some temples offer special, paid temple stay programmes with varying prices based on the type of experience and activities included.

– How do I dress while visiting temples in South Korea?
When visiting temples in South Korea, it’s recommended to dress in a way that is respectful of the temple’s cultural significance. The focus is on being comfortable and respectful, rather than adhering to strict dress codes.

– What is the best time to visit temples in South Korea?
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for visiting temples in South Korea, thanks to mild weather and scenic beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in fall.

– What are the most famous Buddhist temples in South Korea?
South Korea’s most renowned Buddhist temples include the Haedong Yonggung Temple in Busan, Tapsa Temple’s unique stone pagodas, Sudeoksa Temple’s historical significance, the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, Seoul’s vibrant Jogyesa Temple, Bomunsa Temple on Seongmodo Island, the expansive Tongdosa Temple, the scenic Guinsa Temple, Bongeunsa Temple in Seoul’s Gangnam, and the historic Magoksa Temple.

– What are the most famous Hindu temples in South Korea?
There are not many famous Hindu temples in South Korea due to its predominantly Buddhist and Christian population. However, some Hindu temples do exist, such as the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Seoul. It serves the Hindu community and visitors interested in Hindu culture and spirituality.

Written By

Ruchit Rastogi

Ruchit Rastogi

A journalism graduate, Ruchit has worked with Republic TV as a news writer before venturing into the world of travel with Flynote, covering both local and international stories. Off the clock, Ruchit can be spotted cafe hopping, indulging in his love for reading, cooking, or planning his next solo adventure. A wandering hermit at heart, his days are ..Read More

   
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