Haedong Yonggung Temple (Haedong Yonggungsa)
86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan, KOR
Perched dramatically on Busan’s rugged East Sea coast, Haedong Yonggung Temple (Haedong Yonggungsa) is one of South Korea’s most impressive Buddhist temples. The original 14th-century structure was destroyed in the Imjin War. The rebuilt seaside temple is a rare example of a Korean temple not built in the mountains.
On a visit to the temple, you can descend 108 stairs to the ocean and admire a 3-story pagoda and statues depicting lions, a Buddhist sea goddess, and golden pigs. Thanks to its status as one of the city’s top attractions, Haedong Yonggung Temple is a staple of Busan sightseeing tours, which offer a stress-free way to travel among far-flung attractions such as Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Songdo Skywalk.
There’s no admission fee for the temple.
Though a popular attraction, the temple is a sacred Buddhist site, so dress respectfully and keep noise down.
Uneven ground, a narrow walkway, and stairs make the temple grounds difficult for travelers with mobility issues to access.
The easiest way to reach the temple is by car or taxi (it takes around 20 minutes from Haeundae Beach). You can take bus Nos. 1001, 100, 181, or 9 from Haeundae Beach station. The Nos. 1001 and 139 buses also depart from OSIRIA station.
The temple is open daily from dawn until sunset. The best time to visit is in March and April when cherry blossoms brighten up the grounds in spring. Or come for the Birth of Buddha celebrations in May when locals light lanterns and meditate.
Visit Ananti Cove—down the coast from Haedong Yonggung Temple—to find a resort town with plenty of amenities. Its draws include a luxury, 5-star hotel; a lifestyle village called Ananti Town with plenty of shops and restaurants; Water House, one of the best hot springs in Korea; and the scenic Osiria Coastal Walk, a great way to experience the scenery of Gijang.
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