Korean Job Discussion Forums

[plato's republic]

I've visited a few Buddhist temples in Korea over the years, and would like to try and visit a few more, so would be interested to hear what your favorite temples in Korea are. I'd prefer recommendations closer to Seoul, but basically anywhere in the country will do. I'm tentatively planning to visit Naesosa in Jeollabuk-do over the long weekend in May. Has anyone been?

Thanks.

[littlelisa]

I enjoyed baekdamsa in gangwondo. Beautiful place and delicious food. The monks were all super nice too.

[plato's republic]

Is it easy to get to from Seoul?

[le-paul]

haeinsa - about an hour away from daegu. it holds the wooden printing blocks for the tripitaka koreana.
dont remember the name but the reputedly, first temple built in korea. it was tiny but very beautiful.
bulgoksa, gyeongju is worth a visit if youve never been there before as is beomosa, busan. Busan also has the only temple in korea that is on the sea cliffs.
the most beautiful temples ive seen are the ones that are hidden away in the mountains. when you go around lunch time on a sunday, they will sometimes make you bibimbap. nice

[plato's republic]

Haeinsa is on my list of temples to visit. Already been to Bulguksa and Beomosa but thanks anyway.

[korea.teacher]

To add another wrinkle.

There's a temple stay program in Korea.

For more information, see:

http://www.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/SI/SI_EN_3_4_5.jsp

I found Tongdosa (even though small) just south of Gyeongju, very interesting because the site also includes a modern Buddhist museum.

This temple also claims to hold parts of Buddha's bones.

Here's a more complete listing:

http://lifeinkorea.com/travel2/temples

[Smithington]

The buddhist temples are one of Korea's very few redeeming factors. I used to own a car here and on Sundays I'd drive out into the countryside looking for new temples. Very pleasant.