15 Of South Korea’s Most Fascinating Temples

After exploring Busan’s 8 most beautiful temples, I thought it would be nice to introduce you to the most fascinating temples ever seen in the whole country so you’ll know where to go if you’re looking for stunning architecture and a relaxing atmosphere while surrounded by unspoiled nature!

With around 200,000 temples in South Korea (including 9,000 traditional Buddhist temples), it’s safe to say that the country won’t leave you unsatisfied, and you’re likely to find one that will amaze you and stay with you forever.

Want to see my 15 favorites? Let’s get started!

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1. Yakcheonsa Temple (약천사), Jeju-do

Address: 293-28 Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 652 for 25mn and get off at Yakcheonsa.
Entrance fee: free

Let’s begin our discovery of these fabulous temples with the one that left me speechless during a relaxing stay on Jeju Island: Yakcheonsa. Although less than 50 years old, this temple is actually one of the largest in Asia!

Why visit it?

Would you like a refreshing experience amidst majestic, fine and colorful architecture? Then this place on the beautiful island of Jeju is a must on your itinerary! The serenity of the setting and the view of the Pacific Ocean are reason enough to visit, don’t you think?

Add to that the possibility of discovering another culture and enjoying the tranquility of the place, while treating your body and mind, and it will soon become one of your must-see places too!

The site also offers a temple stay program for Koreans and foreigners alike, should you wish to immerse yourself even further in the country’s culture.

> And if you want to explore the best of Jeju solo and without a car, here’s my post on the subject!

2. Samgwangsa (삼광사), Busan

Address: 77, Choeupcheon-ro 43beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan
How to get there: from Seomyeon station, take exit 9, walk for 1mn and take the Busanjin-gu 15 bus opposite the Young Kwang bookshop for 10 stops and get off at Samgwangsa.
Opening hours: all day, every day
Entrance fee: free

Built in 1983, Samgwangsa temple is located at the foot of Baegyangsan mountain and belongs to the Cheontae order of Korean Buddhism. Although less than a hundred years old, it is now considered one of Busan’s most important temples.

Why visit it?

Known worldwide for it Lotus Lantern Festival in May, what makes this temple a must-see is the fact that, although it’s famous for one special event, you’ll find the place pretty empty during other times of the year. You know what that means, don’t you? You can have this gem all to yourself and lose yourself in its many treasures.

Surrounded by lush nature, breathtaking views, majestic statues and paintings in a tranquil atmosphere, get ready to learn more about traditional culture and mythological history!

3. Beomeosa (범어사), Busan

Address: 250 Beomeosa-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan
How to get there: you can take the subway (line 1, orange) until Beomeosa station, then hop on bus 90 for 5 stops and get off at Beomeosa Parking Lot (범어사주차장).
Opening hours: 08:00-17:00 every day
Entrance fee: free

Built by the Buddhist monk Uisang in 678, Beomeosa Temple, although almost entirely destroyed by fire during the Imjin War, has been renovated since 1613 to become what it is today: one of South Korea’s most splendid temples!

Why visit it?

Are you wondering why Beomeosa is so special? Firstly, because its location on Geumjeongsan Mountain, one of Busan’s best hikes, offers an unparalleled experience, where the sounds of the forest blend perfectly with the grandeur and grace of the site.

Secondly, if you’ve never visited a temple nestled in the mountains, I can assure you that it’s a unique and unforgettable experience, well worth the trip to the coastal city of Busan.

The complex, colorful architecture and nearby hiking await you!

> A temple stay program is also available!

Click here to read my guide on Beomeosa Temple!

4. Jogyesa (조계사), Seoul

Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
How to get there: 12-minute walk from Gwanghwamun station (purple line).
Opening hours: all day, every day
Entrance fee: free

Right in the heart of Seoul and close to one of the city’s traditional neighborhoods (Insa-dong), Jogyesa, though small, is in fact the main temple of the Jogye order, which represents traditional Korean Buddhism.

Why visit it?

Walking around a big city can sometimes be overwhelming, and Seoul is no exception, but entering Jogyesa Temple is like stepping into a haven of peace and sweetness, filled with colorful lanterns and various events at all times of the year.

The welcoming, serene atmosphere is ideal when you want to get away from it all. Plus, the fact that this temple is historic makes it a popular attraction among Koreans and foreigners alike.

If you want to take a break and calm your mind to the sound of the gong, this is the place to go!

Pro tip: come here at night for an even more serene experience!

5. Muryangsa (무량사), Seoul

Address: 184, Daeseomun-gil, Deokyang-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Seoul
How to get there: take the subway to Gupabal station (orange line), then bus 704 for 12mn, get off at Bukhansan. You can then follow the path to the top, as the temple is located near the entrance.
Entrance fee: free

As Bukhansan National Park is a must for all hiking enthusiasts, you can also combine your day’s exercise with this pretty temple located near the visitor center.

Why visit it?

The answer is simple: to take a break and simply prepare yourself mentally before tackling the challenging hike ahead! All joking aside (although Bukhansan is indeed not for the faint-hearted), this temple is well worth a visit, if only for its secluded setting and the magnificent views it affords of the mountains.

> In fact, there are numerous temples scattered throughout the park, so be sure to stop off at one of them to recharge your batteries!

6. Suguksa (수국사), Seoul

Address: 8-5 Seooreung-ro 23-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
How to get there: 20-minute walk from Gusan station (brown line).
Entrance fee: free

Originally named Jeonginsa, the temple was built to guard the royal tomb of Crown Prince Uigyeong, King Sejo’s eldest son, who died at a very young age. As it developed, it changed its name to Suguksa and is now known as a unique site in Korea thanks to one small detail!

Why visit it?

What detail? Quite simply because it’s the only Golden Temple in South Korea!

With its easy access, peaceful landscape and beautiful Buddha statues, it’s a must-see during your stay in Seoul!
Admire the sun’s rays reflecting off the main building and enjoy a quiet stroll in the heart of the city!

> There’s a hiking trail just behind the temple that leads to the Bongsan Observatory!

7. Donghaksa (동학사), Gongju

Address: 462, Donghaksa 1-ro, Banpo-myeon, Gongju-si
How to get there: you can take the bus 107 at Daejeon station and stop at Donghaksa temple (~1h).
Entrance fee: free

Built in 724 during the Silla dynasty, this temple at the foot of Gyeryongsan mountain, with its unique views and history, has undergone many changes due to wars, but was rebuilt each time to finally become what it is today. Another special feature is that it was the first temple for Buddhist nuns, also serving as a training center.

Why visit it?

Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or not, Donghaksa is undoubtedly the ideal place to relax amid breathtaking scenery.

This historic and majestic site deserves to be visited at least once, especially if you’re in Daejeon or Gongju! And if you like to exercise, Gyeryongsan National Park is one of my favorites in the country, but bear in mind that this moderate hike has some challenging trails. Nevertheless, the panorama you’ll get at the top is unbeatable!

Pro tip: autumn or spring are, in my humble opinion, the best times to visit the park!

8. Geumsansa (금산사), Gimje

Address: 1, Moak 15-gil, Geumsan-myeon, Gimje-si
How to get there: from Jeonju Intercity Bus terminal, take bus 79 for 1hr and get off at Geumsansa temple.
Opening hours: Summer (06:00-19:00) and Winter (06:00-18:00)
Entrance fee: free

Located within the magnificent Moaksan Provincial Park, Geumsansa was built in 599 during the first year of King Beop. This thousand-year-old temple is also known for housing many national treasures, including the Mireukjeon: a three-story wooden structure.

Why visit it?

Well, if the many treasures haven’t already convinced you, let me tell you that the site blends so harmoniously into its natural surroundings that every season offers visitors something fascinating. From cherry blossom to colorful autumn leaves, let yourself be carried away by the charm of the place.

Plus, its beautiful courtyard and buildings will never cease to amaze you, and the park itself is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities!

9. Seonamsa (선암사), Suncheon

Address: 450 Seonamsa-gil, Seungju-eup, Suncheon-si
How to get there: from Suncheon bus terminal, take bus 1 for 1h and get off at Seonamsa Temple. You’ll then have to walk around 40mn to attain the temple.
Entrance fee: free

No one knows for sure who built Seonamsa, but its mystical name, which translates as “Rock of the Immortals”, proves once again that the little-known town of Suncheon has a lot to offer those who want to stop and appreciate authentic Korea.

Why visit it?

This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only famous for its arched stone bridge in the middle of nature, but also for the many cultural heritage artefacts it houses, making Seonamsa an essential stop on your trip to South Korea.

Walk along the tranquil stream, stop for a minute, listen to the sounds of nature and forget, at least for a moment, all your worries.

10. Bulguksa (불국사), Gyeongju

Address: 385 Bulguksa-ro, Gyeongju
How to get there: from the city center take bus 10 or 700 as you don’t have to transfer (around 1hr), you’ll then have to walk for 20mn.
Opening hours: 09:00-18:00 every day
Entrance fee: free

Built in 528 at the request of Lady Yeongje, the mother of King Beopheung, this Buddhist temple is described as one of the oldest in Korea! Destroyed during the Japanese invasions of Korea (like many other temples), the restoration of the numerous buildings and pagodas continued until 2015 to bring it up to its current state.

Why visit it?

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the architecture and delicate carvings make this complex a real gem outside the city.

The temple is also famous for the Seokguram Grotto, a man-made cave containing a granite statue of Buddha seated facing the East Sea.

> You can also do a temple stay and learn more about the Silla Dynasty here.

11. Daejeonsa (대전사), Cheongsong

Address: 442-6, Sangsang-ri, Juwangsan-myeon, Cheongsong-gun
How to get there: from the Dong Seoul bus terminal, take an intercity bus to Juwangsan National Park (4h20m) OR from the Andong Elementary School terminal, take the intercity bus to the park (1.5h).
Entrance fee: 2,800 KRW ($2)

Nestled in the small Juwangsan Park, Daejeonsa is said to have been named after King Ju’s son, and was first erected around 672.

Why visit it?

If only for the natural beauty in which it lies, offering charming photos of the rocky peaks in the background, but also for its proximity to Juwangsan National Park, an ideal day trip from Andong where you can explore pretty valleys, lush greenery and waterfalls.

A little difficult to access compared to other temples and parks, but nevertheless a wonderful place to spend an energetic and healing moment.

12. Beopjusa (법주사), Boeun

Address: 405, Beopjusa-ro, Songnisan-myeon, Boeun-gun
How to get there: from Daejeon bus station, take the intercity bus for just over an hour and get off at Songnisan.
Entrance fee: free

Founded in 553 and located in Songnisan National Park, this temple will appeal to nature lovers, architecture enthusiasts and those who simply want to appreciate 1,500 years of Korean culture.

Why visit it?

Rich in cultural treasures, you won’t want to miss the 33-metre gilded bronze Buddha statue or the charming Palsangjeon Hall with its 5-story wooden structure.

If you’re looking for a stunning sacred temple, surrounded by a calm and picturesque landscape, this is the place to go! You can also choose to stop here before hiking to one of the Songnisan peaks.

13. Hwaeomsa Temple (화엄사), Gurye

Address: 539 Hwaeomsa-ro, Masan-myeon, Gurye-gun
How to get there: across the Gurye bus terminal, take the bus 5-1 or 5-3 (14mn) and stop at Hwaeomsa entrance
Entrance fee: free

Located at the foot of one of South Korea’s most famous national parks, Jirisan, Hwaeomsa was built in the 5th century by Yeongi, an Indian monk. Destroyed during the Imjin War, the temple and many other properties have since been rebuilt and are now national treasures.

Why visit it?

As I’ve already mentioned in another article, Gurye is one of those underrated little villages in Korea, so if you’re looking for a peaceful and enjoyable time away from the crowded cities, be sure to put it on your bucket list.

The site is quite vast, and you’ll have the opportunity to see a temple that has preserved its old charm and grandeur.

Famous for its four-lion pagoda and history dating back to the Silla period, it’s also a great place during spring to see the pretty plum trees in bloom, but bear in mind that if you decide to visit at this time, it’s likely to be a little more crowded.

If you’d like to spend more time exploring its many treasures and learning more about Buddhism and Korean traditions, you can book a temple stay here.

14. Tongdosa (통도사), Yangsan

Address: 108 Tongdosa-ro, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si
How to get there: from Busan Central Bus Terminal (Nopo station, orange line), take the Intercity bus to Tongdosa Sinpyeong terminal (22mn).
Opening hours: 06:30-17:30 every day
Entrance fee: free

One of Korea’s Three Jewel Temples, Tongdosa, which has several meanings, one of which is being “Those who wish to become monks must pass through this stairway” is well-known for its long history, its Diamond Stairway and for housing many sariras or Buddha’s genuine sacred relics.

Why visit it?

Each temple is unique, but Tongdosa stands out for its 17 hermitages, peaceful landscape and unique setting and layout.

It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing a museum with hundreds of Buddhist paintings and cultural artefacts.

A temple not to be missed in South Korea!

15. Naksansa (낙산사), Yangyang

Address: 100 Naksansa-ro, Ganghyeon-myeon, Yangyang-gun
How to get there: from the Intercity Bus terminal, take bus 9-1 for 43mn and get off at Naksan temple.
Opening hours: 06:00 – 17:30
Entrance fee: free

1,300 years old, Naksansa is not only steeped in history and beauty, but it’s also the only temple on the list to be close to the sea and therefore offer a view unlike any other featured here.

Why visit it?

Koreans and foreigners alike are drawn to this place for its giant 16-metre granite Haesu Gwaneum statue, the Hongnyeonam hermitage (or Red Lotus hermitage) where you can see the Gwaneum or Bodhisattva cave, but also for its breathtaking panorama of the East Sea.

The site offers a temple stay experience to help you find your dreams and your true self, against the backdrop of the refreshing, gentle breeze and sounds of the sea!

Tips

1. Visit in the morning

Temples are popular places to visit in South Korea. If you want to enjoy the site in an uncrowded environment, it’s best to come in the morning.

2. Prioritize the weekdays

While the morning is the best time of day to explore a temple, weekdays are the best time of the week as many Koreans work and weekends still tend to be much busier in the country (whatever activity you choose), so if you have the opportunity, explore on a weekday.

3. Dress modestly

The rule is no bright colors or revealing clothing, so dress comfortably!

4. Be respectful

Remember that temples are places of worship, so you’ll need to be quiet, or at least not make any loud noise.

5. No smoking or drinking

Strictly forbidden!

6. Don’t sit on religious objects

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t sit or climb on religious objects, be they pagodas, sculptures… because they’re sacred!

Travelling to Busan soon and want to know the most beautiful temples? Here’s my top 8!

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