Make sure to hike up the mountain in the direction of Unmun Seon Room to take in the stunning views of the temple below. Other highlights include communal meals, making your own prayer beads and meditation classes with Kwan.
Those inspired to visit can take part in a traditional cooking class with Kwan herself, to learn about her spiritual cooking philosophy and how to fuel the body for optimum mental clarity, while avoiding artificial flavors, animal products and pungent ingredients like onions and garlic. The third season of Netflix show Chef’s Table features monk chef Jeong Kwan preparing delicious vegan meals for the temple’s community. The temple was established by Zen Master Yeohwan in 632 AD and is located just three hours from Seoul by bullet train. Baekyangsa Baekyangsa was established by Zen Master Yeohwan in 632 AD / Image: Korea Tourism Organizationįor food lovers, a visit to Baekyangsain the breathtaking Naejangsan National Park is a must. During your stay, you can expect plenty of meditation, mountain hiking, tea-drinking, and – on the last Saturday of every month – the practice of 3000 bows to the Buddha. Next to the temple, you’ll find Oktakcheon, a small spring famous for its supernatural healing powers. Built by monk Shinwol in 1522 AD during the Joseon dynasty, the temple was destroyed by fire in 1618 and later rebuilt in 1866 by King Gojong. Away from the crowds and surrounded by trees, it’s the perfect setting for those eager to explore a spiritual sanctuary without having to leave the capital. Located in the foothills of Samgaksan Mountain in northern Seoul, it is easy to forget you’re in a city at the Hwagyesa Temple.
Hwagyesa Hwagyesa is the perfect setting for those eager to explore a spiritual sanctuary without having to leave the capital / Image: Korea Tourism Organization Here are the very best temple stays South Korea has to offer for every type of traveler. With so much choice, deciding where to begin can feel overwhelming. Throughout your stay the idea is to become completely present in the moment, achieving the ultimate Buddhist state of inner peace. While the activities at each temple vary, you can expect traditional tea ceremonies, meditation sessions, prostrations (bowing to the Buddha), outdoor walks, cooking classes and plenty of locally sourced vegetarian food. Whether you’re hoping to embark on a journey of self-discovery, connect with nature, or simply learn more about Korean Buddhist culture and history, the program is welcome to everyone. Beyond the towering skyscrapers and busy streets, hundreds of ancient Buddhist temples lie waiting to be explored.įor those looking to experience the tranquillity of monastic life first-hand, many of these spiritual sites are open to the public for overnight stays as part of the country’s official Templestay program. But for those looking to escape the stresses of city life, there is another way to immerse yourself in Korean culture.
No matter the time, day or night, you’ll always find something to do. South Korea’s bustling capital never slows down. From our partners: South Korea’s temple stay program offers a unique chance to experience monastic life.