Kyungguksa

WHY VISIT

Gyeongguksa Temple, nestled on the eastern slopes of Samgaksan (now known as Bukhansan), is a historic temple founded in the late Goryeo period. Renowned for its scenic mountain surroundings and fresh spring water, it attracts many visitors. The temple complex has 17 buildings, including Geungnakbojeon (Hall of Supreme Bliss), Yeongsanjeon, Myeongbujeon, Gwaneumjeon, and Sibangseonwon. Geungnakbojeon houses the Amitabha Buddha triad, along with wooden Buddhist paintings (designated as Treasure No. 748), Shinjungtaenghwa, and Palsangtaenghwa. Sibangseonwon offers a weekly Sunday meditation session, and the temple also hosts temple stay programs at Hwanheodang and Manwoldang. As one of Seoul's significant temples, Gyeongguksa was frequently visited by former President Syngman Rhee. During his tenure as Vice President, Richard Nixon of the United States visited the temple and later described it as one of his most memorable experiences in his memoirs, even including a photograph of his visit.