I could never leave Seoul without spending ample time amongst its beautiful Buddhist temples. These temples throughout the country are as colorful with their rich history as they are with their ornate designs and fixtures. Bongeunsa is one of the most famous temples in Seoul and a must-see in this amazing city.

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Features of Korean Temples

While many houses of worship are typically one large structure, Korean temples are traditionally complexes of multiple buildings, each serving a specific function whether that be the main prayer hall, chambers for protecting sacred items, or rooms for housing the monks.

The somewhat open air nature of these temple complexes is wonderful for taking in not only the architecture itself but also its harmony with the surrounding nature and delightful contrast with the surrounding modern city. Bongeunsa even has a beautiful forested trail around its perimeter for meditative walks.

It’s so peaceful to walk the trails and paths around the ornate buildings as you hear the beautiful chants of monks in the prayer hall. If entering a prayer hall, always be respectful by removing your shoes and refraining from talking or taking pictures.

At Bongeunsa and other Korean temples, one is often greeted by gorgeous canopies of strung lanterns. They are often white lanterns or a dazzling display of rainbow colors to celebrate Buddha’s birthday in the Spring. Other seasonal displays include elaborate floral arrangements or large lotus plants placed around the grounds.

One of the main draws to this temple is the large stone Buddha statue. The seating area around the Buddha makes for the perfect place to admire the surrounding temple grounds and forest. The temple’s position on a sloped hill provides lovely views of the surrounding city as well.

History of Bongeunsa

Due to a harrowing history marked by war and oppression from colonial rule, many original South Korean monuments have been destroyed and later reconstructed (even multiple times). Bongeunsa was originally founded in the year 794 initially under the name Gyeonseongsa. After fading into disrepair some time later, it was reconstructed in 1498 along with a revitalization of Buddhism in Korea. The temple then suffered heavy damage in 1939 during the Korean War. Since then, much love and labor has gone into restoring the Bongeunsa to its former splendor.

Temple Stay Program

Many Korean temples offer Temple Stays: a unique cultural experience in which participants can follow the monks throughout their daily activities. Many visitors find this an enriching journey to learn about Buddhism, meditation and mindfulness. Bongeunsa is very visitor friendly with information for this program offered in multiple languages near its entrance.

How to Get to Bongeunsa

Bongeunsa is located in the cosmopolitan Gangnam district and is just a few minutes walk from Bonguensa station on the subway line 9. Just across from Bongeunsa is the huge COEX shopping mall with plentiful restaurants, shops and popular tourist spots such as the picturesque Starfield Library.

Celebrating Traditional Korean Culture

Bongeunsa Temple is truly a great place to experience traditional Korean culture. You can check fliers near the entrance for the periodic events and performances held on the grounds throughout the year. While many visitors to South Korea are drawn by the high-tech delights and bustling nightlife, I hope people won’t skip over these wonderful enclaves of tranquility and historic beauty.

Thank you for reading! For those hoping to travel to this beautiful country, my South Korea packing list offers some helpful suggestions for travel essentials for your adventure.