Jogyesa Temple, Seoul

Jogyesa Temple serves as the spiritual headquarters of the Jogye Order, the main sect of Korean Buddhism. Though the temple's lineage traces back to the Joseon era, the present complex was established in 1910, originally named Gakhwangsa, and adopted the name Jogyesa in 1954 as a symbol of Korean religious independence after Japanese colonial rule. It was the first modern temple built inside Seoul’s four historic city gates.

Upon entering the temple grounds through the One-Pillar Gate, visitors are welcomed by the courtyard adorned with lotus lanterns and ancient trees, including a 500‑year-old white pine and a towering Chinese Scholar tree-both designated natural monuments for their cultural and environmental significance. The richly painted Main Buddha Hall, built in 1938, houses three magnificent golden Buddha statues and is surrounded by other notable buildings like Paradise Hall and a towering stone pagoda holding relics of Shakyamuni Buddha.

Jogyesa is not only a place of worship but also a cultural venue. Its Dharma Hall hosts year‑round lectures, rituals, and ceremonies, and the temple is a central site for the Lotus Lantern Festival each spring in celebration of Buddha’s birthday-when the grounds glow with thousands of illuminated lanterns and festive energy. For those looking to immerse more deeply, Jogyesa offers Templestay programs that include meditation, tea ceremonies, and communal meals.