5 Famous & Ancient Korean Temples Architectures
1. Bulguksa Temple
Location: Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province
Built: 774 AD during the Silla Dynasty
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations)
Bulguksa Temple is one of Korea’s most famous and significant temples, built during the Silla Dynasty. It was designed to embody the Buddhist concept of the universe, with each structure representing elements of the cosmos. Bulguksa is renowned for its historical and architectural value, especially the stone structures that have been preserved over centuries.
2. Jogyesa Temple
Location: Seoul, South Korea
Built: 1395 AD
Visiting Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Located in the heart of Seoul, Jogyesa Temple is the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Although the current buildings were constructed in the 14th century, the temple has undergone several renovations. Jogyesa is known for its stunning ancient trees, including a centuries-old giant tree near the entrance.
3. Haeinsa Temple
Location: Hapcheon, South Gyeongsang Province
Built: 802 AD during the Silla Dynasty
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Haeinsa Temple is best known for housing the Tripitaka Koreana, one of the oldest and most complete collections of Buddhist scriptures carved onto woodblocks. The temple’s architectural layout is designed to reflect the traditional layout of Buddhist temples in Korea, with the main hall, Daeungjeon, as its centerpiece.
4. Sudeoksa Temple
Location: Yesan, South Chungcheong Province
Built: 577 AD during the Baekje Dynasty
Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sudeoksa Temple, established during the Baekje Dynasty, is one of the oldest temples in Korea. It is known for its historical significance, especially the Daeungjeon Hall, which has been designated as a National Treasure. The temple is situated in a peaceful mountain valley and is famous for its beautiful surroundings, which include dense forests and flowing streams.
5. Beomeosa Temple
Location: Busan, South Korea
Built: 678 AD during the Silla Dynasty
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Beomeosa Temple is one of the most prominent temples in Busan, built during the Silla Dynasty. The temple’s name, meaning “Temple of the Fish from the Sky,” comes from a legendary tale of a golden fish descending from the heavens. Beomeosa is famous for its beautiful architecture, which includes wooden structures with intricate carvings and a stunning array of Buddhist statues.