Exploring the Temple Stay Experience
I love hiking and often seek out mountains.
Every time I pass by a temple in the mountains,
I appreciate the serene atmosphere of the temple, but I often turn back because I don't know the etiquette or how to visit.
I had a vague desire to learn about temples through a temple stay, and then I stumbled upon a new connection while walking.
It was the 'Temple Stay Integrated Information Center.'
The Temple Stay Integrated Information Center is located near Insa-dong in Jongno, Seoul, in a quiet, traditional atmosphere.
This center provides comprehensive guidance and reservations for anyone interested in participating in a temple stay across the country.
As soon as I opened the glass door, the warm lighting and fragrant aroma welcomed me into a calm environment.
Brochures and promotional materials introducing temple stay programs from major temples nationwide were neatly displayed.
I was just going to grab a brochure when a staff member approached me with a friendly greeting.
Are you interested in temple stays?
You can even try a simple experience.
I found out that I could create my own calligraphy postcard by following the text on a postcard with a brush,
or choose to bind Buddhist scriptures on traditional Hanji paper.
I chose the experience of binding the Heart Sutra onto traditional Hanji paper.
Since the program is conducted one-on-one, even beginners can participate without feeling pressured.
This is the Heart Sutra I created.
The first attempt was a failure because I couldn't control the amount of ink,
but the second binding turned out well.
It was a meaningful experience that I truly enjoyed.
There was also an opportunity to have tea with a monk,
but the tea session had a set time.
Experiences may change, and reservations are required, so if you're curious, it's best to inquire before visiting.
Of course, like me, you can have a great experience just by walking in.
After completing the experience, the staff kindly explained the types of temple stays and how to make reservations.
Temple stays are generally divided into relaxation and experiential types,
but each temple offers slightly different thematic programs.
Relaxation temple stay: meditation, walking, free time, etc.
Experiential temple stay: tea with monks, prayer, bell ringing, lantern or rosary making, and participatory activities.
Reservations can be made through the official temple stay website.
The Integrated Information Center helps you compare the locations and programs of major temples nationwide, making it easy for beginners to choose.
The staff recommended Naksansa Temple in Gangwon-do, which I had visited during a trip to Gangwon-do.
Visiting for a temple stay would surely be a different experience.
For example, temples like Jogyesa, Bongeunsa, and Gwanmunsa near Seoul are easily accessible urban temple stays,
while regional temples like Woljeongsa in Odaesan or Haeinsa in Gyeongnam offer the chance to enjoy both the forest and natural scenery.
Reservations usually open a month in advance and are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Many places for March temple stays were already fully booked.
Make sure to check the schedule and enjoy your preferred experience on your desired date.
At one corner of the center, there is a goods corner related to traditional and Buddhist culture.
Various items such as simple design rosaries, pilgrimage books, DIY products, and incense series were displayed, making great travel souvenirs or gifts for when you need a little something.
I realized that it's becoming a friendly culture, rather than just a serene temple within the Buddhist mountain.
Through my visit to the Temple Stay Integrated Information Center, which felt like a gift,
the previously vague concept of temple stays felt lighter, and I planned to visit in May.
Will this be an opportunity to learn about Buddhism? :)
Source :https://blog.naver.com/yunmiroad/224200237168
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