When it comes to South Korea, most people think of three Ks: K-Pop, K-Drama, and K-Beauty. But there’s more to this country than hit songs and sheet masks. Korea has many amazing remnants of its Buddhist history, which began when Buddhism was introduced to Korea by Chinese monks in the 4th century AD. Nestled within sprawling cities, tucked away between towering mountains and clinging to glistening seaside cliffs, the more than 900 beautiful Korean temples offer a welcoming tranquil respite from the modern world. Masu.
1 – Bongeunsa Temple, Seoul
Inside a Korean temple in Seoul, Bongeunsa Temple is the most famous. This stunning example of monastery-like beauty stands out as it juxtaposes a 91-foot tall stone Buddha that overlooks the sophisticated skyscrapers of the trendy Gangnam district below. Bongeunsa Temple was founded in his 794th year (although the temple building was moved to its current location in his 16th century) and contains 3,479 scriptures. Today, he is known for conducting one of the best temple stay programs in Seoul, where visitors seeking tranquility can stay overnight and participate in the activities of the monastery.
2 – Jogyesa Temple, Seoul
Located near the historic Insadong district in central Seoul, Jogyesa Temple It is the head temple of the Jogye sect and the center of Korean Buddhism. The colorful temple that stands today is his 20th-century replica of his 14th-century building, which was destroyed in a fire many centuries ago. It is an excellent example of the vibrant Dancheongga style found in Korean temple architecture. But while Jogyesa Temple is beautiful all year round, on Buddha’s birthday (celebrated in his April or May depending on the lunar calendar), thousands of colorful lanterns light up the precincts after sunset, Shine.
3 – Haedong Yonggungsa, Busan
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Probably the most picturesque temple in South Korea. While many Korean temples are located in mountainous or wooded areas, this 14th-century sanctuary of his is in the southern city of Busan, nestled among the rocky coastline of the East Sea. Cross a gently arched stone footbridge to reach the temple’s unusual collection of sculptures, including a pagoda featuring sculptures of the Seawater Goddess Buddha and her four lions overlooking the sea. The temple is believed to be a magical moment of wish fulfillment and is a popular spot to watch the first sunrise on New Year’s Day.
4 – Donghwasa Temple, Daegu
Daegu, a city in central South Korea, is home to mysterious 5th-century ruins. Tohwaji Temple. The temple’s name, which stands among the autumn leaves along the slopes of Palgong Mountain, means “Empress Tree Blooms Even in Winter.” The big highlight of Tonghua Temple is the trees, and the red leaves illuminate the scenery. This enchanting atmosphere is further enhanced by the stone dragons that adorn the steps to the main hall. In fact, the dragons are so intricate and lifelike that you can believe they play a role in lighting the forest in fiery colors.
5 – Beihua Amyoji Temple
Hakuyoji Temple This 7th-century temple is an Instagram-worthy gem, with the gently sloping roof of the temple’s main hall set against the towering granite peaks of Naeulsan National Park. The beautiful grounds feature paths lined with oak and maple trees, which glow brightly in autumn. The quaint stone bridge over the pond makes you feel like you’re in a painting. Baekyangsa Temple is a popular destination for Korea’s Temple Stay program and fills up quickly in spring and fall.
6 – Thapsa Temple, Jinan
curious person Thapsa Temple It is located in a rocky valley on a secluded slope of Mt. Mai. The temple’s origins are unclear, but it is known for its mysterious collection of 80 stone pagodas built by retired scholars who visited the area in the 19th century to pray for the souls of humanity. Lee Gap-yung spent days collecting stones and erecting the tower at night, slanted to withstand the typhoon winds. With many hiking trails in the surrounding area, Tapusa is a great place for a day trip.
7 – Sinheungsa Temple, Seoraksan National Park
Located within the Taebaek Mountain Range, one of Korea’s most beloved national parks, Shinshinji Temple It features a stunning environment of gently sloping forested hills, granite outcrops, streams and waterfalls. This temple may be the world’s oldest Zen temple, but it’s actually known for its 48-foot-tall bronze statue of Sin. Known as the “Unification” Buddha, the statue was erected after the Korean War to symbolize hopes for eventual reunification with North Korea.
8 – Namhae Boam Temple
Probably the most impressive temple in Korea, boriam Perched atop Mt. Geumsan, it offers panoramic views of the East Sea and the emerald islands that dot the South Coast. Perhaps because of its towering height, the incredible beauty of the natural environment, or the temple’s remote location, the temple is known as one of the most prestigious places of worship in all of Korea, and legend has it that , each visitor is said to grant him one wish. . The temple is located in Hallyeo Haesan National Park on Namhae Island and can be reached on foot.
9 – Gwanjeoksa Temple, Nonsan
View chokesa It claims the honor of enshrining the tallest Buddha statue in Korea. Built over 1,000 years ago, this national treasure of South Korea took him 38 years to complete and stands 59 feet tall. This Buddha was erected after a woman heard a baby crying from a rock, but when she investigated, she found no baby nearby. In addition to the statues, the area is also known for its stunning cherry blossom tunnel that stretches from the city center to the temple grounds.
10 – Jikjisa Temple, Gimcheon City
The construction age is about 418 years, Jikujisa It is probably the oldest temple in Korea. Of particular note are his 1,000 Buddha statues enshrined in the main hall, 1,000-year-old kudzu shards, and a seated stone Buddha from the Silla period. Its quiet, forested location and close proximity to the major cities of Daejeon and Daegu make it a particularly popular temple for day trips away from city life. For an in-depth look at monastic life, check out our Templestay options here.
Whether you’re in Seoul in the north, Busan in the south, or anywhere in between, there’s bound to be a beautiful temple within a short hike or bus ride.