Top 10 Temples to Visit and Experience in Seoul
Seoul, a city renowned for its vibrant modern lifestyle, also offers tranquil retreats where you can immerse yourself in traditional Buddhist culture.
Here’s a fun and insightful list of the top 10 temples in Seoul where you can escape the hustle and bustle for meditation and cultural enlightenment.
And yes, peace of mind is guaranteed (though your Instagram followers might appreciate the photos more).
1. Jogyesa Temple
Location: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Central temple of Korean Buddhism, city-center location
Activities: Temple Stay, meditation sessions, lotus flower crafts
Admission: Free
Website: jogyesa.kr
Instagram: instagram.com/jogyesa_official
Transport: Subway Line 1, Jonggak Station Exit 2 (5-minute walk), buses 151, 162, 172, 401 (Jogyesa stop)
Why foreigners love it: Easy access in downtown and diverse Buddhist experiences.
2. Bongeunsa Temple
Location: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Peaceful atmosphere amid Gangnam’s buzz, mix of historical artifacts and modern amenities
Activities: Temple Stay, Zen meditation, lantern making
Admission: Free
Website: bongeunsa.org
- Transport: Subway Line 9, Bongeunsa Station Exit 1 (2-minute walk)
Why foreigners love it: Traditional culture easily accessible in Seoul’s trendiest district.
Location: 73 Jingwan-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Beautiful natural scenery, traditional Korean architecture
Activities: Temple food experiences, Temple Stay, walking meditation
Admission: Free
Website: jingwansa.or.kr
Instagram: instagram.com/jingwansa_temple
Transport: Subway Lines 3 & 6, Yeonsinnae Station, bus 7211
Why foreigners love it: Offers a perfect combination of nature and cultural experience just outside central Seoul.
Location: 68 Seonjam-ro 5-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Quiet and cozy atmosphere, connection to renowned monk Beopjeong
Activities: Meditation, Dharma talks, cultural courses
Admission: Free
Website: gilsangsa.or.kr
Transport: Subway Line 4, Hansung Univ. Station (15-minute walk)
Why foreigners love it: A peaceful spot offering philosophical insights and tranquility in the heart of the city.
Location: 117 Hwagyesa-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Scenic mountain views, historic significance, special programs for foreigners
Activities: International Temple Stay, Zen practice, lantern making
Admission: Free
Website: hwagyesa.org
Transport: Subway Line 4, Suyu Station, bus 1165
Why foreigners love it: International-friendly programs specifically designed for non-Korean visitors.
Location: 170 Baekryeonsa-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Peaceful retreat at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain
Activities: Temple Stay, nature walks, tea ceremonies
Admission: Free
Transport: Subway Line 3, Hongje Station, bus 7021
Why foreigners love it: A natural oasis close to the city, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Location: 137 Bibong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Quiet meditation space nestled in Bukhansan National Park
Activities: Temple Stay, 108 prostrations, temple cooking
Admission: Free
Website: geumsunsa.org
Instagram: instagram.com/geumsunsa_temple
Transport: Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station, bus 7212
Why foreigners love it: Deep meditation experiences amid stunning mountain views.
Location: 504 Samyang-ro 173-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Healing spot beside Ui Valley, great hiking trails
Activities: Temple Stay, meditation, hiking
Admission: Free
Website: doseonsa.org
Instagram: instagram.com/doseonsa_temple
Transport: Ui-Sinseol Line, Bukhansan Ui Station (20-minute walk)
Why foreigners love it: Combines scenic walks with spiritual rejuvenation.
Location: 70 Dokseodang-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Quiet urban temple overlooking the Han River
Activities: Meditation, Zen sessions, Temple Stay
Admission: Free
Transport: Subway Line 3, Oksu Station (10-minute walk)
Why foreigners love it: Offers serene views of the Han River within easy urban reach.
Location: 111 Baumoe-ro 7-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Highlights: Quiet urban retreat offering various cultural events
Activities: Temple Stay, tea ceremony, meditation programs
Admission: Free
Website: gwanmunsa.org
Transport: Subway Line 3, Yangjae Station, bus 4432
Why foreigners love it: Great accessibility combined with rich cultural programs.
Visit these temples for a memorable journey of spiritual exploration. Remember, enlightenment might not happen overnight, but the selfies will certainly be enlightening!
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