Korea is a land where tradition and modernity coexist beautifully, and nowhere is this harmony more evident than in its ancient temples. These sacred spaces, often nestled in serene mountain landscapes or quiet valleys, offer a glimpse into Korea’s rich spiritual heritage and artistic mastery. For travelers seeking peace, culture, or simply breathtaking views, Korean temples provide a perfect escape from the bustling cities.
If you plan to visit Korea in 2025, exploring these ten stunning temples will immerse you in history, architecture, and the tranquil spirit that has defined Korean Buddhism for centuries. Each temple has its own unique charm and story, inviting visitors to slow down, reflect, and experience a slice of Korean soul.
1. Bulguksa Temple
Bulguksa Temple is often regarded as the masterpiece of Korean Buddhist architecture. Located in Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, this temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must-visit. Founded in 528 AD, Bulguksa is renowned for its intricate wooden structures, graceful pagodas, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
Walking through Bulguksa feels like stepping back in time. The temple’s architecture is carefully balanced between grandeur and harmony with nature. Two stone pagodas, Dabotap and Seokgatap, stand prominently in the courtyard, representing the artistry of the Silla era. The temple’s corridors and halls are adorned with delicate paintings and carvings that tell stories of Buddhist teachings and legends.
In spring, the temple is framed by cherry blossoms, while autumn dresses it in fiery red and gold leaves, making it a breathtaking scene for photographers and travelers alike. Beyond its beauty, Bulguksa also hosts various cultural experiences such as temple stays where visitors can learn about meditation and Buddhist rituals.
2. Haeinsa Temple
Nestled deep in the mountains of South Gyeongsang Province, Haeinsa Temple holds a sacred treasure that makes it unique among Korean temples: the Tripitaka Koreana. This is a vast collection of Buddhist scriptures carved meticulously onto over 80,000 wooden printing blocks dating back to the 13th century. These blocks are so perfectly preserved that they remain a crucial source for Buddhist studies worldwide.
The temple itself is a serene retreat surrounded by lush forests. Its name, “Temple of Reflection on a Smooth Sea,” evokes a sense of peace and contemplation. Visitors can walk among quiet pavilions and meditation halls, absorbing the calm atmosphere.
Haeinsa is also famous for its architecture, which ingeniously adapts to its mountainous environment. Its wooden buildings are constructed without nails, showcasing the sophisticated craftsmanship of ancient Korean builders. The temple offers temple stay programs as well, where guests can experience traditional Buddhist monastic life.
3. Jogyesa Temple
For those who don’t want to venture far from the city, Jogyesa Temple in Seoul offers a vibrant and colorful introduction to Korean Buddhism. It is the chief temple of the Jogye Order, the main sect of Korean Buddhism, and is especially lively during important festivals like Buddha’s Birthday.
Jogyesa stands out with its giant ancient trees and colorful lanterns that brighten the temple grounds. The main hall houses a large statue of the Buddha, surrounded by exquisite murals and ornate decorations that draw visitors into a world of spiritual artistry.
Because of its central location, Jogyesa is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to find a moment of calm amid the city’s hectic pace. Visitors can participate in meditation sessions, tea ceremonies, and cultural programs that showcase the living traditions of Korean Buddhism.
4. Seokguram Grotto
Close to Bulguksa Temple lies another UNESCO World Heritage site that is a must-see: Seokguram Grotto. This temple is unique because it is not a traditional wooden temple but a stone sanctuary built inside a cave on Mount Toham.
Inside the grotto sits a magnificent statue of the Buddha looking serenely out over the East Sea. This statue is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist sculpture and is surrounded by intricate reliefs of bodhisattvas, disciples, and guardian figures carved into the granite walls.
The approach to Seokguram offers a peaceful hike through pine forests, and the cool mountain air adds to the spiritual atmosphere. Although the grotto is relatively small, its artistic and historical significance make it one of Korea’s most stunning and important temples.
5. Beopjusa Temple
Beopjusa Temple, located in the Sobaeksan Mountains, offers visitors a combination of natural beauty and impressive architecture. Founded in the 7th century, this temple is one of the largest in Korea and serves as a major spiritual center.
One of the highlights at Beopjusa is the towering bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha, known as the Mireuk Daebul. Standing at over 33 meters tall, this statue is the largest sitting Buddha statue in Korea and draws awe from every visitor. Surrounding the statue, the temple grounds feature traditional wooden halls with intricate tiled roofs and brightly painted beams.
The temple is especially beautiful in autumn when the surrounding forests burst into color, providing a perfect backdrop for peaceful contemplation. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails nearby, linking temple visits with nature exploration.
6. Tongdosa Temple
Tongdosa Temple has a unique claim to fame in the world of Korean temples: it is known as the “Temple Without a Buddha Statue.” Unlike most temples, the main worship is centered not on statues but on relics said to be from the historical Buddha himself, including bone and hair relics.
Situated on the slopes of Jirisan Mountain, Tongdosa is one of the Three Jewel Temples representing the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Visitors can admire the temple’s spacious grounds and elegant halls, all designed to foster quiet reflection.
The temple’s serene mountain setting, coupled with the deeply spiritual atmosphere, makes it a profound place for those interested in the heart of Buddhist faith and history. It also offers temple stay programs where visitors can engage in meditation, chanting, and monastic routines.
7. Woljeongsa Temple
Woljeongsa Temple, located in the Odaesan National Park, is a gem often overlooked by international tourists but deeply cherished by Koreans. Founded in the 7th century, the temple sits amid dense forests of fir and pine trees, creating a tranquil environment perfect for rest and reflection.
The temple’s architecture is striking, featuring the iconic “Octagonal Nine-Story Pagoda,” a rare structure symbolizing the Buddhist cosmos. The temple grounds have several halls painted in vibrant traditional colors, and many statues of Buddhist deities fill the area.
One of the highlights of Woljeongsa is the long walking path lined with stone lanterns and large ancient trees, creating a fairy-tale like atmosphere. Visitors often come here for meditation retreats and to escape from urban life.
8. Hwagyesa Temple
Although Seoul is a sprawling modern city, it hides a Zen Buddhist sanctuary called Hwagyesa Temple. Known for its focus on Seon (Zen) Buddhism, Hwagyesa offers a quiet refuge where visitors can learn about meditation and mindfulness in the heart of the capital.
The temple’s simple yet elegant buildings are surrounded by quiet gardens and small streams, making it easy to disconnect from city noise. Hwagyesa offers specialized temple stay programs emphasizing Zen meditation techniques that attract those seeking mental clarity and spiritual growth.
While it’s not as grand or touristy as some other temples, Hwagyesa’s intimate atmosphere and active monastic community provide a uniquely authentic experience of Korean Buddhism today.
9. Baekyangsa Temple
Baekyangsa Temple, located in the picturesque mountains of Jirisan National Park, is a peaceful sanctuary often visited by hikers and nature lovers. Established during the Silla dynasty, Baekyangsa has been a place of worship and meditation for centuries.
The temple is known for its beautiful setting amid steep cliffs and verdant forests. It features traditional wooden architecture with colorful Dancheong paintings decorating its eaves and pillars. The temple grounds include multiple halls, a bell pavilion, and a tranquil pond reflecting the surrounding nature.
Visitors to Baekyangsa often appreciate the calm atmosphere and the opportunity to combine spiritual visits with hiking adventures on Jirisan’s famous trails.
10. Seonunsa Temple
Seonunsa Temple is a wonderful example of how Korean temples integrate art, nature, and spirituality. Located in Jeollabuk-do Province, the temple is surrounded by dense forests and is famous for its beautiful stone pagoda and colorful lantern festivals.
Founded in the 6th century, Seonunsa has been restored multiple times, blending ancient tradition with modern cultural activities. It is well known for its lotus flower festival in summer, where the temple is decorated with countless lotus lanterns creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Inside the temple, visitors can find vibrant murals and statues that depict Buddhist stories and teachings in exquisite detail. The temple offers programs where visitors can participate in lantern making, meditation, and tea ceremonies, making it a highly interactive cultural experience.
Bottom line
Visiting these ten stunning Korean temples in 2025 offers more than just sightseeing. It is an opportunity to connect with a spiritual tradition that has shaped Korea’s culture, art, and values for over a thousand years. Each temple presents a unique story — from the architectural genius of Bulguksa and the sacred relics of Tongdosa to the quiet meditation halls of Hwagyesa in Seoul.
Beyond their historical and religious importance, these temples are nestled in some of Korea’s most beautiful natural settings. Whether it’s the towering mountains, dense forests, or tranquil valleys, the environment around these temples invites visitors to experience true peace and mindfulness.
So, if your 2025 itinerary includes Korea, make sure to carve out time for these serene sanctuaries. They will enrich your journey with timeless beauty, profound spirituality, and a deeper understanding of Korean culture.
