Bongeunsa Temple, Seoul

Bongeunsa Temple offers a historic counterpoint to the neighborhood’s modern skyscrapers. Founded in 794 CE during the Silla Dynasty by State Preceptor Yeonhoe and originally named Gyeonseongsa, the temple was reconstructed in 1498 under Queen Jeonghyeon, receiving its current name, which signifies honoring the king.

Spanning more than 1,200 years of religious and cultural tradition, Bongeunsa served as the principal temple of the Korean Zen sect between 1551 and 1936. Though many of its buildings were damaged during the Joseon suppression of Buddhism and the Korean War, extensive reconstructions have restored the complex to its historical prominence. Its Panjeon Hall houses approximately 3,000 woodblock-carved sutras of the Avatamsaka Sutra-some of the oldest surviving Buddhist prints in Korea.

Bongeunsa also offers cultural immersion through its templestay programs, which allow guests to engage in activities like dawn chanting, Buddhist tea ceremony, named Dado, meditation, copying sutras, and mindful meals. These short programs-ranging from a few hours to overnight stays-are available in multiple languages and provide a rare opportunity to experience monastic life in the heart of Seoul.