Temple Stay in South Korea: Rest & Search
“Temple Stay” is one of many activities foreign visitors can enjoy during their time in South Korea. Around the nation there are over 15 temples ready to share one-on-one the life and traditions inside these cultural centers of meditation, contemplation and creation. For many this could be the chance to experience first hand the local form of Buddhism. As well as to learn rituals such as Yebul or the ceremonial service, held three times per day; Chamseon, known as Seon(Zen) meditation; Barugongyang, that is the monastic meal; or the famous tea ceremony named Dado.
For some others it could just be a nice way to destress from the accelerated rhythm of life or some unfavorable situations in a completely safe environment.
The normal length of stay for all the enthusiastic participants goes from 2 to 5 days, but there a few temples where a visitor can stay for a longer period upon request. During those 2 to 5 days, the visitor should respect the required etiquette and refrain from speaking loudly, shouting, running, smoking and drinking. The guests should remember there are other inherent rules to a place of self-meditation and intrinsic silence.
Visitors must follow the scheduled activities. The temple managers (monks) will provide the necessary elements, such as beddings and training outfits to go through day and night. Families and individuals are in separated rooms to sleep. For the rest of the events everybody has to share common spaces indoor and outdoors.
A sublime cultural experience
The cost for the “Temple Stay” might vary depending on the location and the number of days, but usually goes from 40,000 Korean won (USD $35) to 80,000 Korean won (USD $70). Here there is a list with the names and contact info of temples accepting foreigners:
- Geumsunsa Temple in Seoul
- Myogaksa Temple in Seoul
- Bongeunsa Temple in Seoul
- International Seon Center in Seoul
- Beomeosa Temple in Busan
- Dongwhasa Temple in Daegu
- Woljeongsa Temple in Gangown-do
- Yongjoosa Temple in Gyeonggy-do
- Jikjisa Temple in Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Golgulsa Temple in Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Haeinsa Temple in Gyeongsangnam-do
- Jeondeungsa Temple in Incheon
- Geumsansa Temple in Jeollabuk-do
- Seonunsa Temple in Jeollabuk-do
- Mihwangsa Temple in Jeollanam-do
- Yakchunsa Temple in Jeju
As a part of our services, Medical Avenue can reserve and arrange your “Temple Stay”!
Interested on KOREAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE treatment?
