Immerse yourself in a Buddhist temple

Templestay is a unique cultural programme in South Korea. There are many Buddhist temples across the country that allow travellers to spend a night, join in meditation or other activities. This programme allows guests to discover the life of the monks, who are all very welcoming.

The Templestay programme began in 2002 for the World Cup, to welcome the footballers. After its great success, the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism decided to continue opening some temples to the public. It is now one of the most successful cultural and tourism programmes in South Korea, open to tourists and Koreans staying at the temples each year. This experience immerses travellers in traditional Korean culture and Korean Buddhism, while practising meditation and relaxation.

Here are a few key points to bear in mind: the typical duration of a stay in the temple is two days, but it is possible to extend the experience by a few days. Throughout these trips, participants should keep noise to a minimum; avoid bright or extravagant clothing; refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol; and treat all structures and objects with respect.

Accommodation is simple and uniforms are provided; however, guests should also bring layers of clothing and basic toiletries for communal showers. In terms of activities, visitors practice meditation, the self-purification process of 108 prostrations, tea ceremonies and Buddhist chanting. Additional activities and attractions vary depending on the temple.

Baekyangsa

Made famous thanks to an episode of the Netflix documentary series 'Chef's Table', Baekyangsa, located in Bukha-myeon, is home to chef Jeong Kwan, who has created simple yet exquisite food. As well as practising meditation and taking part in tea ceremonies, travellers to Baekyangsa learn about the spiritual side of food from Kwan.

For example, the barugongyang (a formal monastic meal meaning 'offering') is accompanied by daily chanting. Comprising portions of rice, soup and vegetable side dishes, barugongyang is also a practice of taking only what you need.

Golgulsa

On the outskirts of Gyeongju - the capital of the ancient Silla dynasty - Golgulsa is home to the country's oldest cave temple, with a 6th-century Buddha sculpture on Mount Hamwol. At the temple you can also learn sunmudo, a traditional Korean Buddhist martial art.

This practice is a meditative, yoga-like fighting art that focuses on unifying body and mind by controlling the breath. The experience continues with the practice of 108 meditation prostrations, chanting, a tea ceremony with a monk and archery. Stays at the Golgulsa temple range from intensive one-day programmes to immersive 10-day programmes.

More information on the Golgulsa Sunmudo temple.

Guinsa

In the heart of the Sobaeksan National Park, this temple - whose name translates as "protecting benevolence" - is an oasis of natural beauty. Guinsa's buildings are nestled in steep terrain that integrates the temple with the surrounding landscape of thick forest and sloping mountains. Guests opting for this remote temple experience can choose between day trips and two-day programmes.

Seon International Centre

Seons translates as 'Zen' in Korean, and is a form of Buddhism with a Taoist influence. This meditation centre is located in Seoul, and locals and tourists alike go there to learn how to meditate and to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Free English classes on meditation and Buddhist teachings are available every Saturday evening, and Seon International Centretemple stays are one-night programmes available throughout the year.

Jikjisa

Located in Gimcheon, the temple is halfway between Seoul and Busan, accessible by the Seoul-Busan train line. Visits to the temple range from two to five days, depending on guests' interests. Founded during the reign of King Nulji of Silla 1,600 years ago, Jikjisa is home to a plethora of artefacts in the Jikji Museum of Buddhist Art. The name 'jikji' means 'pointing directly to the mind', and like most temple stays, Jikjisa focuses on spiritual and mental rejuvenation.

On arrival, visitors are given clothes to wear for all the activities, as well as the programme. Accommodation is minimalist, with a single room with two blankets - one for sleeping and one for covering up during the day if necessary - and a small pillow.

Programming example :

It takes some time to get used to the daily routine in a Buddhist monastery. The alarm clock rings at 3-4 a.m. The call to the first morning prayer ceremony, the "Yebul", usually takes place in the largest hall in the temple. The Yebul consists of 108 "Baekpalbae" to honour the teachings and sufferings of Buddha. The prayer is followed by meditation and breakfast at around 6.30 a.m. Depending on the temple and the schedule, visitors can then take a walk or tour the grounds accompanied by a monk. After a vegetarian lunch, travellers have some free time before taking part in a cultural activity (such as creating a Buddhist rosary). Around 5.30pm, dinner is served and the day ends with a ceremony and meditation.

👍 What to bring:

• Light layer of clothing that can be put under the outfit provided by the temple.
• Extra pillow and blankets
• Extra socks to be worn inside the temple buildings.
• Hiking shoes.
• Towel and all toiletries.
• Snacks if required.

🙅‍♂️ Do not bring:

• Alcohol or tobacco.
• Meat snacks.
• Extravagant clothing.

🎫 Booking information:

How to book a Templestay in Korea The Templestay website is the best place to book a temple stay in Korea. Here's the link: Templestay Website.

The price is KRW 60,000 per night, per person (roughly €45 per night).