One of the major religions in Korea is Buddhism and it is evident in the many Buddhist temple that you can find in the country. Unlike most of them that are located in the mountains, there is a Buddhist temple in Busan that is situated near the sea โ the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.
About Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Because of its location, it is also known as the aquatic Buddhist sanctum. This temple is one of the 3 sacred places related to the Goddess Buddha of Korea. They believe that the Great Goddess Buddha of mercy in the sea lives alone at a solitary near the sea and appears on the back of a dragon. This sacred place preserves the religious concept of Buddhism deeper than other temple as the sea, dragon and the Great Goddess Buddha embody a harmony there.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was first built in 1376 by the great Buddhist teacher known as Naong during the Goryeo dynasty. But unfortunately, the original temple structure was destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasion of the country in the early 1930s. Many people believe that when they pray at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, at least one of their wishes will be answered. And on New Yearโs day, it is a famous location among locals and tourist as they watch the first sunrise of the year.
What to See in Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
There are a lot of attractions and structures at the temple that not only Buddhist people will appreciate but even non-believers.
Three-story pagoda with 4 lions
Image from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
One of the most notable structure in Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is the magnificent three-story pagoda with 4 lions located right in front of the main building of the temple. The four lions symbolize joy, anger, sadness and happiness. It was originally called Yongduam (the rock shaping like dragon head) but it was destroyed during the Japanese invasion. Thus, in 1970s, the monk Yeongho Dang, Jeongam Hwasang enshrined the three-story pagoda with 4 lions by collecting the pieces of the shattered pagoda and re-enforcing the damaged rock face.
Haesu Gwaneum Daebul
Image from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Haesu Gwaneum Daebul means the Great Goddess Buddha of mercy in the sea. According to the Buddhist scriptures, the Great Goddess Buddha of mercy in the sea lives alone at a solitary near the sea. Furthermore, she appears before people in 33 different ways and saying her name repeatedly will help you accomplish your goal.
Endless sea views from Sirangdae
Another relaxing thing to do in the temple is watching the endless sea from the Sirangdae while meditating. The sound coming from the sea as the water touches the ground gives relaxing vibes that will calm you.
Night scenery on Buddhaโs birthday
Image from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
During the birthday of Buddha in the fourth month of the lunar calendar which is April, the temple is decorated with lanterns. At night, the temple offers spectacular night view as lanterns lighten the whole temple. It is also the beautiful time of the year to see cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Image from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Operating Hours
- 05:00 AM until sunset
- Open all day: Yaksajeon Hall & Bangsaengteo Site
Admission Fees
Admission fee to the temple is FREE
Parking Fees
- 3,000 Korean won for vehicle (15 seats or less)
- 5,000 Korean won for vehicle (16-25 seats)
- 7,000 Korean won for vehicle (25 seats or more)
How to get there
Location
86, Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan
Directions
- Take Busan subway and get off at Haeundae Station (Busan Subway Line 2), Exit 7.
- Then take Bus No. 181 and get off at Yonggungsa Temple Bus Stop.
For sample itineraries to help you plan your trip to Busan, please see links below:
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