South Korea is home to some of the most famous temples in South Korea, where history and spirituality converge across nearly two millennia. These temples to visit in South Korea are beautifully integrated into mountain valleys and coastal cliffs, showcasing curved roofs, intricate painted woodwork, and centuries of architectural mastery.
For travelers seeking cultural immersion, the best temple in South Korea offers a serene environment where ancient Buddhist practices continue to thrive, welcoming visitors into spaces of peace, reflection, and learning. Whether you are exploring the biggest temple in South Korea or discovering hidden gems, each site provides a unique glimpse into the country’s sacred heritage.
1. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple breaks with Korean Buddhist tradition by embracing the sea rather than the mountains. Built in 1376 along Busan’s rocky coastline, this temple offers worshippers and visitors the rare experience of hearing waves crash beneath their prayers.
Walking through its gates, visitors encounter stone pagodas where lions represent joy, anger, sadness, and happiness – teaching Buddhist principles through art. The temple’s 108 steps lead pilgrims through a physical journey that mirrors spiritual awakening.
- Address: 86, Yonggung-gil, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan
- Timings: October to February: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM March to September: 4:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- New Year’s sunrise draws thousands seeking blessings
- Buddha’s Birthday fills the air with floating lanterns
- Regular morning chanting welcomes each day
- How to Reach: Take Bus 181 from Haeundae Station to Yonggungsa Temple stop
Features:
- The main sanctuary rises above crashing waves, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere
- Ancient stone pagodas tell stories through intricate carvings and symbolic figures
- Prayer pavilions offer meditation spaces with panoramic ocean views
- The temple houses sacred relics in specially designed shrines
2. Tongdosa Temple
Tongdosa Temple holds a unique place among Korean Buddhist sanctuaries as the “Temple of the Buddha’s Body.” Founded in 646 AD, it safeguards precious relics, including the Buddha’s robe and begging bowl.
Unlike most Buddhist temples, Tongdosa’s main hall contains no Buddha statues. Instead, sacred relics beneath the altar make this temple a living connection to Buddhism’s founder.
- Address: 108, Tongdosa-ro, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Buddha’s Birthday celebrations fill the temple with light
- Training programs teach traditional meditation
- Millennium-old candle maintains an unbroken flame
- How to Reach: Take intercity bus to Yangsan from Busan’s Nopodong Terminal
Features:
- Sacred relics rest beneath the main altar, making this hall uniquely special
- Sixty-five buildings preserve different aspects of Korean Buddhist tradition
- Ancient flame continues burning after more than thousand years
- Training facilities prepare new generations of Buddhist monks
3. Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa Temple is one of the best temples in South Korea, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Silla dynasty’s golden age. Completed in 774 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple features carefully designed stone bridges, pagodas, and halls that symbolize the earthly Buddha-realm.
As one of the must-visit temples in South Korea, Bulguksa uses its architecture to teach Buddhist philosophy, with each structure and pathway reflecting profound meanings about the journey to enlightenment.
- Address: 385, Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Timings: March to October: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM November to February: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Events:
- Lotus Lantern Festival illuminates spring evenings
- Cultural performances share traditional arts
- Educational programs explain temple architecture
- How to Reach: Take Bus 10 or 11 from Gyeongju Bus Terminal
Features:
- Seven national treasures include the famous Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas
- Stone bridges represent the path from the earthly to the Buddhist realm
- Ancient courtyards preserve original Silla dynasty stonework
- Educational center explains Buddhist architecture and symbolism
4. Jogyesa Temple
Jogyesa Temple stands at Korean Buddhism’s modern heart. Founded in 1910, this temple serves as headquarters for the Jogye Order, leading Korea’s Buddhist traditions into the present day.
A 500-year-old white pine tree watches over the temple grounds, where ancient practices meet contemporary needs in Seoul’s busy center.
- Address: 55, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Timings: Daily: 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Lotus Lantern Festival transforms streets with light
- Weekly Dharma talks welcome English speakers
- Traditional tea ceremonies share cultural wisdom
- How to Reach: Take subway to Jonggak Station (Line 1), Exit 2
Features:
- The main hall welcomes practitioners between ancient bronze buddhas
- A centuries-old white pine offers peaceful shade
- Regular programs introduce Buddhist teachings to visitors
- Cultural displays share Korea’s Buddhist history
5. Bongeunsa Temple
Amid Gangnam’s modern towers, Bongeunsa Temple maintains traditions from 794. A 23-meter Maitreya Buddha statue watches over this sanctuary where ancient scrolls meet meditation apps.
The temple brings Buddhist wisdom to contemporary life through innovative programs while preserving thousands of sacred texts.
- Address: 531, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Events:
- Weekly Templelife programs welcome newcomers
- Cultural ceremonies share traditional practices
- Regular meditation sessions guide spiritual growth
- How to Reach: Take subway to Bongeunsa Temple Station (Line 9), Exit 1
Features:
- Towering Maitreya Buddha statue inspires reflection
- Library houses over 3,000 Buddhist scriptures
- Modern facilities support cultural learning programs
- Meditation halls blend traditional and contemporary design
6. Beomeosa Temple
Beomeosa Temple, established in 678, is one of the famous temples in South Korea and stands as Busan’s largest and most significant temple. It welcomes visitors from around the world through unique international programs, offering a chance to experience monastic life firsthand.
Marked by four grand gates symbolizing sacred transitions, Beomeosa Temple is a top temple to visit in South Korea for those seeking spiritual insight and cultural immersion.
- Address: 250, Beomeosa-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Temple stay programs share monastic life
- Traditional ceremonies mark seasonal changes
- Cultural classes teach Buddhist arts
- How to Reach: Take subway to Beomeosa Station (Line 1), then Bus 90
Features:
- Four traditional gates guide spiritual journeys
- Training facilities prepare new Buddhist teachers
- International programs welcome global visitors
- Mountain setting creates natural meditation spaces
Suggested Read: South Korean Famous Food: 20 Traditional Dishes You Must Try
7. Songgwangsa Temple
Songgwangsa Temple earned fame as the “Jewel of Korean Buddhism” through centuries of scholarly excellence. Established during Silla times, this temple has produced generations of respected Buddhist masters.
Its 80 buildings preserve both physical structures and living traditions of Korean Buddhist practice.
- Address: 100, Songgwangsaan-gil, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Traditional temple stays share monastic life
- Scholarly programs study Buddhist texts
- Seasonal ceremonies mark important dates
- How to Reach: Take bus from Suncheon Bus Terminal
Features:
- Museum preserves precious Buddhist artifacts
- Meditation halls support serious practice
- Library maintains ancient documents
- Training spaces prepare future teachers
Suggested Read: South Korea Visa For Indians – Fees, Requirements, Process
8. Guinsa Temple
Guinsa Temple rises in dramatic terraces along steep valley walls. Built in 1945, this headquarters of the Cheontae Order shows how Korean Buddhism continues evolving.
Modern architectural elements blend with traditional designs, creating spaces for contemporary practice while honoring ancient wisdom.
- Address: 73, Guinsa-gil, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Annual Cheontae festival celebrates tradition
- Temple stays welcome spiritual seekers
- Regular ceremonies mark sacred times
- How to Reach: Take intercity bus to Danyang, then local bus
Features:
- Unique terraced architecture follows mountain contours
- Modern facilities support large gatherings
- Traditional and contemporary designs blend seamlessly
- Natural setting enhances spiritual practice
Suggested Read: South Korea Itinerary 7 Days – Your Complete Travel Guide
9. Hwagyesa Temple
Hwagyesa Temple opens Korean Buddhist practice to international seekers. Located in northern Seoul, this temple specializes in sharing Zen traditions with global visitors.
Weekly classes and three-month retreats offer structured paths into Buddhist understanding.
- Address: 117, Hwagyesa-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
- Timings: Daily: 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Weekly Buddhism classes welcome beginners
- Summer meditation course deepens practice
- International programs bridge cultures
- How to Reach: Take subway to Suyu Station (Line 4), then Bus 120
Features:
- International Zen center guides practitioners
- Educational facilities support Buddhist studies
- Natural surroundings enhance meditation
- Modern amenities serve long-term students
Suggested Read: South Korea Visa Rejection Reasons with Rejection & Success Rates
10. Magoksa Temple
Magoksa Temple has welcomed seekers for over a thousand years. This sanctuary preserves cultural treasures like Daeungjeon Hall while offering spaces for contemporary practice.
Surrounded by green mountains, Magoksa provides perfect conditions for experiencing traditional Korean Buddhism.
- Address: 966, Magoksa-ro, Sagok-myeon, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Seasonal festivals mark Buddhist calendar
- Regular ceremonies maintain traditions
- Cultural programs share temple arts
- How to Reach: Take bus from Gongju Bus Terminal
Features:
- Historic halls preserve ancient architecture
- Sacred gates mark spiritual boundaries
- Natural setting supports peaceful practice
- Cultural treasures teach Buddhist history
11. Yeonghwasa Temple
Yeonghwasa Temple, established in 674, is one of the notable temples to visit in South Korea, offering a serene escape just minutes from Seoul’s urban bustle. Nestled among pine forests on Achasan Mountain, it provides a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Its accessibility makes Yeonghwasa Temple ideal for families and travelers interested in exploring the best temples in South Korea while learning about Korean Buddhist traditions.
- Address: 21, Yeonghwasan-ro 15-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Regular meditation introduces Buddhist practice
- Cultural programs welcome families
- Traditional ceremonies share ancient wisdom
- How to Reach: Take subway to Achasan Station (Line 5)
Features:
- Historic structures tell Buddhist stories
- Pine forest provides natural sanctuary
- Family programs share Buddhist teachings
- Convenient location serves urban practitioners
Suggested Read: South Korea With Kids: Your Gateway to K-Pop Dreams and Ancient Wonders
12. Gilsangsa Temple
Gilsangsa Temple shows Buddhism’s ability to transform spaces and lives. This former high-end restaurant became a temple in 1997, teaching impermanence through its very existence.
Regular programs help modern seekers find ancient wisdom in contemporary life.
- Address: 68, Seonjam-ro 5-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
- Timings: Daily: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Events:
- Daily meditation guides spiritual practice
- Cultural programs share Buddhist arts
- Regular ceremonies maintain traditions
- How to Reach: Take subway to Hansung University Station (Line 4)
Features:
- Repurposed buildings teach Buddhist principles
- Meditation spaces welcome all seekers
- Cultural programs bridge past and present
- Urban location serves city practitioners
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Korean temples located in mountains?
Buddhist teachings value harmony with nature. Mountain locations offer quiet for meditation and follow ancient principles about sacred spaces. Haedong Yonggungsa’s seaside location makes it uniquely special.
What makes Korean temple architecture unique?
Korean temples blend Chinese Buddhist design with local traditions. Curved roofs, wooden construction, and bright dancheong patterns create distinctive styles that influenced Japanese temple architecture.
When can visitors attend temple ceremonies?
Morning ceremonies welcome visitors daily. Major festivals like Buddha’s Birthday and New Year celebrations offer special experiences. Check temple websites for program schedules.
What should visitors wear to Korean temples?
Modest clothing shows respect. Cover shoulders and knees. Some temples provide robes for certain ceremonies. Remove shoes before entering temple halls.
Do temples offer overnight stays?
Many temples welcome guests through Temple Stay programs. These immersive experiences share monastic life through meditation, ceremonies, and traditional meals.
Can visitors take photographs?
Yes, visitors can usually take photographs at South Korea’s temples, though restrictions often apply inside shrine halls or during ceremonies. It’s important to respect these rules and observe quiet times.
Are temples active religious centers?
Many temples in South Korea remain active religious centers, preserving centuries-old traditions while serving contemporary communities. Programs at larger temples often help visitors understand Buddhist practices.
Do temples provide English guidance?
For international travelers, several of the famous temples in South Korea offer English guidance through tours or printed materials. It’s recommended to check temple websites or call ahead for information on available language services.
Suggested Read: South Korea in July: Experiencing Korean Summer
