[theList] Urban Healing on Buddha's Birthday... Where Are the Temples in Seoul?

Bongunsa, Jogyesa, and International Seon Center Accessible for Tourists with Disabilities
Beautiful Golden Exteriors Highlight Suguksa and Neungwonsa Temples

Even in the densely populated city of Seoul, numerous temples are scattered throughout. Their tranquil and peaceful atmosphere makes them popular 'healing spots' for many people.

In celebration of Buddha's Birthday on the 27th, the Seoul Tourism Foundation has selected and announced 'Five Temples in Seoul Worth Visiting.'

Among the temples chosen by the foundation, Bongeunsa, Jogyesa, and the International Seon Center are equipped with various convenience facilities to ensure easy access for tourists with disabilities, the elderly, infants, and their companions.

How about taking a trip to Seoul’s temples during this Buddha’s Birthday holiday?

A Resting Place in the Heart of the City, Bongeunsa

[Photo by Seoul Tourism Organization]

Located in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Bongeunsa is a historic temple founded in 794 during the Silla Dynasty under the name Gyeonseongsa.

Bongeunsa preserves cultural assets including Treasure No. 1819, the Three Buddha Seated Statues.

The temple is surrounded by a forest, and nearby office workers are often seen taking walks along the Bongeunsa Meditation Path during their lunch breaks.

On May 27th, Buddha’s Day, various events such as a temple culture festival, Buddha’s birthday lighting ceremony, and concerts will be held.

A Temple Ideal for Visiting with Children, Jogyesa

[Photo by Seoul Tourism Organization]

Jogyesa, located in Susong-dong, Jongno-gu, is a temple close to major Seoul attractions such as Insadong and Gyeongbokgung Palace, attracting many domestic and international visitors.

The temple area is equipped with various facilities including a Templestay information center, the Central Buddhist Museum, and a performance hall.

Jogyesa is especially well-equipped with children's play facilities and amenities for infants, making it a great place to visit with kids.

On Buddha’s Birthday, Jogyesa will host events such as 'Buddha Busking,' a Warm Heart Concert, and lantern prayer ceremonies.

Globalizing Templestay, International Seon Center

[Photo by Seoul Tourism Organization]

Located in Yangcheon-gu, the International Seon Center was established in 2010 as a Templestay center where both domestic and international visitors can easily experience Buddhist culture.

The architecture features a combination of traditional hanok and pagoda exteriors with a modern interior design.

The International Seon Center offers various programs including Korean and English Templestay, and singing bowl meditation experiences (singing bowls are bowl-shaped percussion instruments originating from Tibetan Buddhism).

Gorgeously Adorned in Golden Light, Suguksa

[Photo by Seoul Tourism Organization]

At Suguksa in Eunpyeong-gu, visitors can admire a unique Dharma Hall painted entirely in gold, except for the blue tiles.

Suguksa was built during the reign of King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty, and in 1995, the largest golden Dharma Hall in Asia and the first in Korea was completed.

The temple houses one Treasure-designated seated wooden Amitabha Buddha statue from the Goryeo period and six Buddhist paintings.

Nearby are temples such as Jingwansa and Samcheonsa, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage site Seooreung, making it a great area to visit together.

Delicately Detailed Golden Dancheong, Neungwonsa

[Photo by Seoul Tourism Organization]

Neungwonsa, located on Dobongsan Mountain, boasts elaborately patterned golden dancheong (traditional Korean decorative coloring on wooden buildings).

Although situated on the slopes of Dobongsan, the temple is easily accessible with paved sidewalks and wooden deck paths leading to the entrance.

Along the Dobong Old Trail, one of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil trails, visitors can enjoy various attractions including Neungwonsa, Gwangryunsa, Dobongsa temples, Musugol Valley, and observation decks, making it a great area for a combined visit.