Thinking of unplugging and finding some peace of mind in Korea? A temple stay might be exactly what your soul—and body—needs. Whether you’re looking for deep reflection or a quiet escape in the mountains, Korea’s Buddhist temples offer a variety of stay programs rooted in centuries of tradition, mindfulness, and nature.
Three Types of Temple Stays
1. Day Visit (당일형)
Short on time but curious about temple life? The one-day program lets you dip into Korean Buddhist culture through brief sessions of meditation, a temple tour, and tea time with a monk. It’s a perfect introduction for travelers on tight schedules.
2. Experiential Stay (체험형)
This program is ideal for those who want a hands-on encounter with Korean spiritual and cultural heritage. It often includes ceremonies like 108 bows, Buddhist meals (발우공양), lantern-making, and even local heritage walks. Each temple customizes the program slightly depending on the season and their specific tradition.
3. Restful Stay (휴식형)
Sometimes, you don’t want to “do” anything—you just want to breathe. This flexible program allows you to participate in only the basics, such as morning chants and meals, and spend the rest of your time unwinding in nature, reading, meditating, or just doing nothing.
A Brief Look at Buddhism in Korea
Buddhism arrived in Korea from China during the 4th century, deeply influencing the country's art, architecture, philosophy, and way of life. Though it coexists today with other faiths, Korean Buddhism remains a pillar of cultural heritage, particularly through its monastic traditions and temple architecture. Over centuries, it evolved into the Seon (Zen) school, which emphasizes meditation and personal enlightenment.
Picture by dr.maamemensimahorne
At its core, Buddhism teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path—a philosophy centered on overcoming suffering, letting go of attachment, and cultivating wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline. This focus on mindfulness, simplicity, and compassion makes the temple stay experience especially profound.
Many well-known figures, from artists to philosophers, have drawn inspiration from Buddhist thought. Even today, public figures like actor Steven Seagal, singer Tina Turner, and the late Steve Jobs have openly practiced or admired Buddhism. In Korea, renowned monk and author Ven. Haemin Sunim has brought Korean Seon Buddhism to the global stage with his accessible teachings on mindfulness and emotional healing.
What to Bring
Most temples provide basic items like uniforms and bedding, but you’ll want to pack:
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, towel, etc.)
- Comfortable clothes and extra layers—especially if you’re headed into the mountains
- Sneakers or hiking shoes (you might end up on a forest trail)
- Reusable water bottle
Each temple may have slightly different guidelines, so check in advance.
Signature Experiences
예불 (Yebul - Buddhist Chanting Ceremony)
This beautiful early morning or evening ritual begins with the deep resonance of a temple bell and is followed by bowing and chanting. It’s not just a performance—it’s a collective wish for peace and clarity.
108배 (108 Bows))
You’ll bow 108 times, symbolically releasing 108 worldly desires and regrets. It’s physically challenging, emotionally cleansing, and deeply humbling. If you can’t do all of them, no pressure. Participation is optional.
차담 (Tea Time with a Monk)
This is one of the most heartfelt parts of temple stay. You sit face-to-face with a monk over warm tea and talk about life, Buddhism, or simply sit in comfortable silence. Expect wisdom, warmth, and possibly a new perspective.
명상 (Meditation)
Breathe in. Breathe out. Korean temples are designed to help you turn inward. The guided meditation sessions, often held in peaceful halls surrounded by nature, are about letting go of stress and reconnecting with yourself.
사물체험 (Temple Instruments Ritual)
Try your hand at striking the beomjong (Buddhist bell), moktak (wooden fish drum), and unpan (cloud-shaped gong). These instruments are meant to awaken sentient beings across all realms—earth, sky, and water.
포행 (Walking Meditation)
A slow walk through pine forests or along bubbling mountain streams. This meditative stroll helps you reconnect with nature and gives your mind room to wander—or be still.
FAQs About Temple Stay
- Can I stay at any temple?
Not every temple offers a temple stay. About 140 official temples across Korea run these programs, all vetted by the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism. You can find the full list on templestay.com.
- Can couples stay together?
Temples are sacred spaces for practice and reflection. Men and women usually sleep separately unless you’re traveling with family. Public displays of affection are discouraged.
- Can I use my phone?
Most temples won’t force you to turn it off—but you’ll probably want to. It’s a chance to log out and tune in.
- Do I have to wake up at dawn or bow 108 times?
Not at all. While participating in morning chanting and 108 bows adds meaning to the experience, it’s not mandatory. If you can’t or prefer not to participate for physical or personal reasons, just let the temple staff know.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're seeking peace of mind, a cultural deep-dive, or simply a digital detox in the mountains, a temple stay in Korea offers something rare: stillness with purpose. It’s more than an escape—it's a return to yourself, guided by centuries of wisdom and a landscape shaped by serenity. If you're ready to slow down and breathe a little deeper, the temple gates are open.
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