The famous Jogyesa Temple is situated in the heart of Seoul. Similarly, itโs termed to be one of the main Buddhist temples of the Korean nation. Serving as the headquarters for Korean Buddhistโs Jogye Order, youโll find this destination surrounded by plenty of intrigues.
Did you know that the Jogye Order is actually the largest sect in Korean Buddhism?

There are a number of reasons why this tourist attraction claims a top spot on bucket lists. And it has a lot to do with the grandeur and mystic vibes that surround it.

Above all, you can also book a temple stay at the beautiful sanctuary. And trust us when we say, youโll enjoy every bit of your experience.
Check out: [Jogyesa] โBe a true hero!โ Recharging Templestay (1N2D~3N4D)
How do I get there?
Meanwhile, you can easily arrive at the Jogyesa Temple via several routes. These include the following:
- Travel to the Anguk Station via subway line 3, and take the exit 6. Itโs just a 10-minute walk away on foot
- Use the Gwanghwamun Station via subway line 5, taking exit 2. Now, take a 15-minute walk towards the temple.
- Travel towards the Jonggak Station via subway line 1, now take exit 2. Itโs a 10-minute walk away to the temple, on foot.

Recollecting historic facts from Jogyesa Temple
Establishing its mark in 1395, the famous Jogyesa Temple is the center of Korean Buddhism. And for this reason, it plays a pivotal role in terms of the stateโs current Seon Buddhism affair.

While the temple received plenty of name changes along the way, it stands tall and proud as one of Seoulโs famed and natural monuments. Above all, the fact that itโs present on one of Seoulโs most famed cultural streets, Insa-dong, adds to its great popularity.

In the past, this sanctuary also served as a fortress for Buddhists in Korea. At the same time, many viewed the temple as a strong force to detract Japanese strongholds to suppress the religion.
Design layout for days- Jogyesa Temple
As one can probably imagine, the Jogyesa Temple has architectural wonders that scream for attention. The entire facility is blessed with intriguing architectural bliss.

Moreover, the templeโs main Buddha Hall is referred to as the Daeungjeon. Comprising of the finest pinewood from Baekdu Mountain, it instills a unique aura. Did we mention the fact of how itโs always full of enchanting sounds?
Source: Majid Mushtaq
As you make your way towards the main courtyard, youโll find two giant trees. And whatโs so interesting is how each tree is 500 years old. Howโs that for ancient brilliance?
Moreover, they include a gorgeous White Pine, alongside a sublime Chinese Scholar. With a height that reaches for the sky, itโs great for backdrops and intense photography.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
To gain entry into the area, you need to make your way through the โfirst pillar gate.โ And according to ancient tradition, itโs a gate that separates the Buddhist world from the mortal world.

A subtle mix of traditions and comforting palace aura
The beautiful temple features a unique blend of classic aspects and true palace themed architecture. Youโll see a lot of lattice designs on doors, alongside the windows too.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
Another interesting feature is the Geuknakjeon, where the famous Amitabha Buddha is located or enshrined. Thereโs also a very intriguing bell-like structure whose sound enlightens visitors from all around.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
The temple is famous for plenty of its delightful events that occur all year round. This includes a famous 3 day festival for Buddhaโs birthday. Most importantly, visitors are enthralled by the great display of color and festivity all around. This includes lotus lanterns and many other traditional objects.
Temple Stay- a true cultural program
The famous Temple Stay is a wonderful cultural program for visitors who wish to experience the true life of Buddhists. Meanwhile, you can gain on the blissful opportunity of learning ancient history.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
Here, visitors engage in an array of fun activities that relate to Korean Buddhist traditional values. Most importantly, youโre taught about the power of the mind and how it controls your wellbeing. At the end of the day, youโll learn about how easy it is to achieve true inner peace while staying happy too.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
All participants indulge in chores while attending services. Itโs also a great feeling to interact with all the great resident monks. Your home for the night is a cozy orange-hued square with plenty of floor mats and comfy pillows.
Source: Majid Mushtaq
Regardless of your religion, the temple invites guests to come and reside at the facility. And if you havenโt guessed by now, scrumptious cuisine awaits all participants.
Yes, from wholesome potato soup and black tea to crispy spring rolls and more- itโs a hearty feast altogether.
If youโre a traveler that longs for a unique cultural experience, then the Jogyesa Temple is for you. Also, the versatile exploration is incomparable to any other Korean traditional ordeal.
Read more: Four Essential Things to Include in Your Insadong Seoul Tour