A Temple Stay Experience at Yongjoosa: Finding Peace in the Snow
136 Yongju-ro, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do
용주사
In the quiet of early winter, when the weight of a busy life felt too heavy, I found sanctuary at Yongjoosa Temple (용주사). Known as the 'Dragon Pearl Temple,' this historic site was established by King Jeongjo to honor his father, Crown Prince Sado. It is a place where royal devotion meets spiritual peace, offering a "rest for the tired mind" amidst beautiful traditional architecture and snowy landscapes.
My temple stay was a journey of simple pleasures—from the warmth of an ondol (heated floor) room to the meditative practice of 108 bows. Whether it was chatting with a young "MZ" monk during a tea ceremony or threading beads in the quiet of the dawn, Yongjoosa provided a space to breathe and reflect. If you are seeking a moment of healing, let my experience guide you through the gates of this dragon-named sanctuary.
Preparation and Arrival: Stepping into King Jeongjo's Legacy
The name 'Yongjoosa' carries a mystical legend: King Jeongjo dreamed of a dragon ascending to heaven with a mythical orb just before the temple was completed. This sense of wonder is felt the moment you arrive. After booking through the official website, I received a checklist of essentials: a tumbler, toiletries, towels, and comfortable sneakers. The temple is easily accessible by bus, with the 'Yongjoosa' stop dropping you right at the entrance decorated with charming maps.
Arriving by 2:30 PM, I was assigned a private ondol room. The spacious room featured individual temperature controls, Buddhist literature, and clean bedding. There is something profoundly healing about lying on a warm floor while watching the snow fall outside. Along with the room, I received the signature temple stay uniform—a comfortable vest and loose-fitting pants that immediately made me feel like a part of the temple community.
Tea Ceremony and the "MZ" Monk Experience
One of the highlights of the stay is the tea ceremony. While I expected an elderly sage, I was greeted by a young monk in his 30s. This "MZ" generation monk brought a fresh perspective to our conversations. While it was a challenge to voice my deepest corporate-weary concerns, the exchange provided a unique look into modern Buddhist life. The quiet time spent reading Buddhist books while waiting for the tea to brew was a meditative experience in itself.
Spiritual Practice: Dawn Service and 108 Bows
The dawn Buddhist service is optional but highly recommended for those seeking a true reset. Following the service, we participated in 108 bows. This act involves bowing to the Buddha 108 times to "cut off the 108 defilements." To keep track, we threaded a bead onto a string after each bow, eventually creating a personal prayer bracelet. Guided by a video of the 108 Great Repentance Prayers, the rhythmic movement became a powerful way to release stress and grow inward.
The meals at Yongjoosa are simple, clean, and nutritious. The rule of "not leaving any food" encouraged me to be mindful of my portions and appreciate every bite. The day ended with a creative Shrinkles paper craft activity, allowing me to take home a small, colorful souvenir of my time spent in reflection.
Photo Gallery: The Soul of Yongjoosa
Yongjoosa Temple is more than just a historical site; it is a warm embrace for a weary soul. Have you ever felt the urge to leave the city noise behind and find peace on a heated stone floor? Whether you're interested in the royal history of King Jeongjo or just need a place to practice "MZ" mindfulness, would you like me to find the specific reservation link or recommend the best time of year to catch the snow at Yongjoosa?
No comments yet.
