Exploring Bongeunsa Temple in the Heart of Gangnam
I visited Bongeunsa Temple located in the heart of Gangnam.
I usually just pass by Bongeunsa Station, but I decided to stop by while visiting COEX.
Visitor Information
Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 05:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Open year-round)
Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Parking: First 30 minutes: 3,000 KRW / Additional 1,000 KRW for every 10 minutes
Dining: Hyangjeokwon (Temple Food): 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Seoraewon (Regular Restaurant): 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Break from 2:00 PM - 4:40 PM)
Getting There
Exit through the North Gate of COEX, cross the traffic light, and you will arrive!
Alternatively, you can exit at Bongeunsa Station, Line 9, Exit 1!
You will first encounter the Jinyeomun Gate.
'Jinyeo' represents the true nature of things and absolute truth.
Passing through this gate signifies leaving the secular world and entering the realm of Buddha's truth.
Entrance
Upon entering Jinyeomun, you will find a dining hall and a Buddhist goods store to your right.
The store offers various items including prayer beads, bracelets, and other accessories.
Many people were gathered here.
There is also a bakery café at the far right with many snacks!
To the left, there is a separate information center for temple stays.
Inside
Now, let’s explore further.
This is the Beopwangru, used for large ceremonies and prayers.
Inside the corridor on the first floor of Beopwangru is the statue of the Buddha of Fortune.
It symbolizes wealth and wish fulfillment, and it is said that touching its belly brings good fortune.
Everyone, go touch the belly of the Buddha!
This is the front yard of the Daeungjeon.
The candles are brightly lit, creating a cozy atmosphere.
As the sun set, I enjoyed the romantic night view.
The sound of the wind and scenery was delightful.
The painting of the guardian deity blocking evil spirits was also impressive.
This is the back wall of the Daeungjeon.
I walked around the temple.
This is the bell tower, where the temple's instruments are kept.
It houses four sacred instruments: the bronze bell, the law drum, the wooden fish, and the cloud plate.
The night view with the pine trees was enchanting.
I think this is where the temple stay happens.
I'd love to try it!
The Mireuksan Great Buddha
Ta-da! The highlight of Bongeunsa.
The Mireuksan Great Buddha stands 23 meters tall, making it the largest in Seoul.
It is illuminated by LED lotus lights, creating a beautiful ambiance even at night.
Who is this flower for?
I apologize; let me walk respectfully again.
The small statues surrounding the Great Buddha complete its grandeur!
I guessed there are about 1,000 of them, but it turns out there are thousands, close to 10,000!
Tea House
This is a traditional tea house within Bongeunsa.
It operates from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Since it's cold, I decided to enjoy a warm cup of tea.
There are floor seating with traditional tables and terrace seating available.
You can purchase a tea set and tea separately.
I ordered chrysanthemum tea!
I sipped while enjoying the view of the tall buildings outside.
Final Thoughts
Despite just a casual stroll, I felt a lot of romance and charm at Bongeunsa!
It’s interesting to find such a place in the middle of Seoul.
In spring, there’s a plum blossom festival, and in summer, a lotus festival, making it a great spot to enjoy seasonal beauty.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/wddd13/224159611914
No comments yet.
