Bongeunsa Temple

WHY VISIT

Bongeunsa is a Buddhist temple founded in 794 during the Silla (one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea) period. The temple has more than 1,000 years of history and has many interesting historic and cultural features, including woodblock carvings of the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra). The temple is also a very popular tourist destination, offering various programs relating to traditional Korean Buddhist culture, in a variety of languages. Bongeunsa is more than a just temple. It provides a place to relax for busy city people and also gives people a chance to reflect upon themselves. The templestay program gives an opportunity to experience everyday life in the temple, which includes traditional Korean Buddhist culture and practices. Visitors can experience some simple Buddhist practices such as the daily dawn service, Korean Zen meditation, Dado (a tea drinking ceremony), and Balwoogongyang (a Buddhist meal with traditional bowls). Every May on Buddha's birthday, Bongeunsa holds the Lotus Lantern Festival on nearby Samseong-don g.