Temples, Temples, and More Temples (Beyond Seoul)

I adore visiting temples in Korea. Their deep spirituality can be felt immediately when you enter through the temple gates. Colorful lanterns blow gently in the breeze and percussive monk chants waft through the air, creating a mesmerizing setting. Vivid paintings and sculptures, with rich symbolic meaning, abundantly line the halls and temple grounds.

The phrase, “Once you’ve seen one [Korean Temple], you’ve seen them all” could not be further from the truth. If you look past the common, vibrantly colored roofs and other similar features, you will see how each temple boasts a variety of details based on its specific history and location. I am constantly in awe of the subtle, yet remarkable, differences between the temples.

Waujeongsa Temple (와우정사)

Location: Yongin, Gyeonggido

I was drawn to Waujeongsa to see the giant buddha head, but was equally impressed by the other amazing features of this temple. You won’t find typical Korean-style architecture here. Waujeongsa was established in the 1970’s by a Buddhist monk named Haewolbopsa who moved from North Korea. Haewolbopsa established the temple to pray for reunification of the nations.

I love Waujeongsa aesthetically but also for what it represents. The temple, founded on hope for reunification, promotes peace, acceptance, and community in Korea and around the world. Its beautiful message permeates the grounds. Throughout the temple, you can find Buddhist statues from Thailand, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and China. Additionally, the temple’s noteworthy “Pagoda of Unification,” contains stones from Buddhist holy sites around the globe. I found a special sense of calm and hope at Waujeongsa and I hope you do too.

Guinsa Temple (구인사)

Location: Danygang

Guinsa is arguably one of the most beautiful and interesting temples I’ve seen in Korea. As you ascend the temple grounds (an unexpected hike), you become immersed into the culture of this magnificent temple. Structurally, Guinsa varies from most temples because of its multi-floor halls and location on the mountain. When you visit, trek all the way to the top, as the view and buildings increase in grandeur as you climb. Allow yourself more than an hour, as the temple holds surprises at every turn.

Beyond the architectural beauty, Guinsa has a distinct community feeling. After speaking to an incredibly kind monk, we learned that the temple has up to 10,000 monks at any given time and is almost entirely self-sustaining. On the way to the top, we passed by a bustling kitchen, monks performing daily cleaning and laundry tasks, worship sessions, and everything in between. Guinsa is huge! Take your time and really soak in the energy and bustling nature of this temple.

Tapsa Temple (탑사)

Location: Jinan, North Jeolla

Tapsa temple, in Maisan Provincial Park, is a sight to see! Tapsa sits at the base of Mr. Mai (“Horse Ears Mountain”) in Jinan. The two peaks are said to resemble the ears of a horse, although I didn’t know this upon visiting, and casually assumed they were two giant thumbs.

Due to crustal movements from over 70 million years ago, the soil surrounding Tapsa is very rocky. The towering rocks paired with the temple’s hand-laid, stone pagodas, create a mystical, other-worldly setting. I suggest visiting during Buddha’s birthday in May for lanterns that add another dimension to the scene and stunning spring flowers.

Fun fact– The hand-laid pagodas weren’t constructed with any mortar, yet have withstood multiple typhoons and earthquakes! Their construction is truly a mystery to me.

Bulguksa Temple (불국사)

Location: Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk

Bulguksa is one of the most famous temples in Korea, located outside of the ancient Silla capital of Gyeongju. The location’s first temple, built in 751, was the center of Silla Buddhism. During this tumultuous period in Korean History, Bulguksa monks prayed against foreign invasions. Unfortunately, Bulguksa suffered multiple invasions and was completely burned to the ground in the late 16th century. A major restoration project, in 1972, earned Bulguksa a spot on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites. The temple holds various National Treasures and historical assets that represent Korea’s turbulent past.

Travel Tip: Bulguksa usually has a free English-speaking tour guide on site. There is so much history at Bulguksa and my experience improved tenfold by understanding the history and symbolism of the site. I highly recommend checking to see one is available during your visit.

Boriam Temple (보리암)

Location: Namhae, Gyeongsangnam

Boriam Temple boasts a spectacular view of the mountains fading out into the sea. Boriam was founded in 683 and is noteworthy for King Taejo’s hundred days of prayer, which led to the formation of the Joseon Dynasty. This temple was, later, deemed one of Korea’s three noteworthy praying temples.

Note: Boriam is quite small and its trophy goes to the view, so it might warrant a pass on a smoggy day. That said, visit on a clear day for one of the most memorable views in Korea.

Haedong Yonggungsa (해동 용궁사)

Location: Busan, South Gyeongsang

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, originally called Bomun Temple, was first built during the Goryeo dynasty in 1376. After a detrimental fire during the Japanese Invasion, and years of abandonment, the temple underwent reconstruction in 1970. When construction was completed, Bomun Temple was renamed Haedong Yonggunsa or the “Korean Dragon Palace Temple.”

Haedong Yonggungsa is a must-see temple in Korea. Its location, right by the sea, makes for a magical experience. This temple is very popular, so I’d advise visiting early in the morning, if possible. Special features at Haedong Yonggungsa are the four lions in the main sanctuary (symbolizing joy, anger, sadness, and happiness) and the 108 steps that lead into the temple. The steps represent the 108 feelings that you must overcome before reaching nirvana.

Enriching your Temple Visit

If you have the luxury of time during your visit, try to visit temples off the beaten path. Sometimes my favorite temple experiences were at temples unknown to the majority of tourists. Additionally, be willing to communicate or interact with the monks. Some monks even surprise you with stellar English skills. By learning more about the temple and forming a connection, your appreciation for the temple and overall experience will improve significantly. I suggest checking out the temples I’ve listed, and find more hidden gems for yourself! Check out “Temples, Temples, and More Temples (My Favorites in Seoul)” for more temple inspiration.