10 Must-See Temples in Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is famous for its distinct setting. Unlike most Korean temples located in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated along the shoreline. The temple has attracted tourists from all over the country with its spectacular views. Another reason that the temple is so famous is a popular belief that prayers offered at this temple are answered, so even celebrities and politicians often visit the temple. In every corner of the temple, you can find different kinds of interesting statues, such as statues of 12 zodiac animal gods, golden Maitreya Buddha, and Buddhas believed to grant wishes like giving birth to a son or attending a good university. It would be meaningful to learn about the symbolism and origin of each statue.

A tour of the temple while appreciating the sound of waves and the scent of the sea will rejuvenate your body and mind. Songjeong Beach and many cafes and restaurants with nice vibes can be found near the temple. Have fun with your loved ones―family, friends, or lovers―surrounded by wonderful scenery.

Beomeosa Temple, located on the eastern ridge of Geumjeongsan Mountain, is famous as one of the three major temples in the Gyeongsang-do region, along with Haeinsa and Tongdosa. The reputation of this temple is also attributed to its spectacular, mysterious scenery. Though it is easy to reach the temple by public transportation, the best option is to walk, except in winter. You will lose track of time taking a leisurely stroll along the leafy forest trail. Beomeosa is home to many stone relics. Take some time to appreciate the traditional architectural styles, viewing the lotus patterns featured on the pedestals, for instance.

The temple provides temple stay programs to experience the lives of those practicing the path of enlightenment as well as this way of life for yourself. Temple stay in Beomeosa will be a valuable experience allowing you to discover and reflect on your true self. Have a quiet time for meditation and relaxation at Beomeosa, a serene and elegant refuge from the busy city.

Taejongsa Temple is a small temple located inside Taejongdae Park. Established in the 1980s, it is not a temple with a storied history of hundreds of years but a temple with a unique serene atmosphere. It is famous for enshrining the statue of Buddha and the Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya where Buddha attained enlightenment and liberation donated by the Sri Lankan government in 1983. It is recommended to visit the temple and Taejongdae Park on the same day, as they are connected. Taejongsa, located on the seashore, boasts beautiful scenery. As it is less crowded compared to other temples in Busan, if you visit at the right time, you can fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this small temple.

There are many other tourist attractions around Taejongdae Park, such as hot springs, Yeongdo Lighthouse, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Dongbaekseom Island, and Gamcheon Culture Village, so take some time to visit each attraction at a leisurely pace. Immerse yourself in a unique experience at Taejongsa Temple, which has a different charm from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Jangansa Temple in Gijang-gun, Busan, is a temple loved by many for its unique serene atmosphere. The temple has access to a nice walking course through the forest. Its three-story stone pagoda, enshrining the relics of Buddha, is one of the most important attractions of the temple. In front of the main hall is a beautiful maple tree that looks straight out of a movie scene, providing a perfect photo spot. Jangansa is a place where you can feel the beauty of nature in all seasons. The temple creates harmonious landscapes with verdant trees and plants in spring and summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snowy mountains in winter.

Walking along the forest path leading to the temple, you can see a valley that will remind you of a traditional fairy tale. The valley boasts crystal clear water inhabited by various aquatic creatures. Enjoy a tour of this historic temple while taking time for refreshment and rest.

Hongbeopsa Temple, situated at the northeast end of Geumjeong-gu, is famous for Korea's largest seated Buddha statue. Unlike other temples located on the mountainside, Hongbeopsa Temple stands on flat ground, which makes it easily accessible. Geographically close to the Geumjeong-gu area, and surrounded by dense forests, the temple serves as a space where city dwellers can heal their weary mind and body and experience Buddhist teachings not far from their homes. As there is a trail connecting Hongbeopsa and the downstream area of the Suyeonggang River, you can reach the temple by foot along this trail. Within the precincts of the temple, you can find a vast lawn and little promenades that create the mood for a picnic.

It is a temple where you can have a pleasant time with your loved ones. Hongbeopsa also runs programs such as a temple stay, pilgrimage tour of 108 mountainous temples, and various cultural lectures. Relax in nature and purify your mind and body by taking a tour of this temple full of auspicious atmosphere.

Anjeoksa Temple, located at the foot of Aengnimsan Mountain, Nae-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, is a historic temple built during the reign of King Munmu of Silla (AD 661). Visiting a popular temple with lots of tourists is nice, but sometimes you are inclined to spend some time in a secluded place deep in the mountains. Anjeoksa Temple is just the place. It is an inspirational place with a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. Featuring a plain yet elegant style, it is a perfect spot for spending some time for healing. The sacred atmosphere of this ancient temple with a history of over thousand years also creates a sense of wonder.

The temple lacks access to good transportation, but that is the reason why it is a perfect place for meditation, free from any noises and distractions. You can also enjoy hiking along the nearby trails. Take some quiet time to look into yourself at Anjeoksa Temple, where you can feel as if you have left the mundane world.

There are many prestigious Buddhist temples in Busan, but Seokbulsa features one of the best scenery that gives off a unique vibe. This is because most of the temple is made of stone, as its name "Seokbul" (stone Buddha) suggests. The temple's mystical atmosphere that can be rarely found elsewhere is attributed to these distinctive Buddha relievos directly carved out of natural rocks, along with the entrance connecting the basement and ground floors and the main hall nestled between rocks. Located atop Byeongpungam Rock of Geumjeongsan Mountain, the temple also commands a panoramic view of the open sea to the south. The statues of Buddha carved into the rocks boast elaborate expressions and the view from the temple is captivating.

With the temple located halfway up the mountain, how about visiting Seokbulsa and enjoy hiking at the same time? The view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge and the coastal waters will be another highlight of your tour.

Seonamsa Temple on Baekyangsan Mountain, known as a training place for Hwarangdo (an elite group of noble warriors) during the Silla period, is a very quiet and elegant temple with a history of over a thousand years. As a branch monastery of Beomeosa Temple of the Jogye Order, this temple holds a solemn and sacred atmosphere. With a walking trail formed right next to the temple, the temple is easy to access and visited by many hikers. Although Seonamsa is not very large, it bears comparison with other famous temples, presenting extraordinary scenery and ambience. Visitors to this temple all mention the quiet and serene atmosphere as its distinctive feature.

To experience deeper Buddhist culture, participate in a temple stay program operating at the temple. There is also a one-day program, so you can give it a try without any hesitation. Enjoy the beauty of this secluded temple, recharge yourself with positive energy while clearing away all your worries, and take time to purify your mind.

Samgwangsa Temple, the second temple of the Cheontae order in Korea, has different features from the Jogye sect's temples. For example, the typical elephant motif that is often seen in Thai temples is also found at Samgwangsa. Long staircases and stone pagodas create a tranquil atmosphere unique to the temple. Samgwangsa is also well-known as a filming location for the popular Korean movie "New World." This temple, boasting a large congregation, is also famous for ornate decorations including numerous lanterns. As a major temple in Busan, it also carries out various community service activities.

Gwangmyeong Kindergarten attached to the temple has guided children to grow up to be virtuous and benevolent people who practice good words and deeds and attain enlightenment based on Buddha's teachings on compassion. Samgwangsa is also the venue of various cultural events. Check out the event schedule before visiting and engage in various cultural experiences plus a tour of the temple.