DEBORAH IN KOREA

Category: Palaces and Temples

  • How to Visit the Blue House in Seoul (Complete Visitor’s Guide)

    The Blue House in South Korea is similar to the White House in the United States – it’s where meetings are held, a place you can find beautifully manicured landscapes, and even where the President lives. At least, the Presidents of South Korea used to until the current President Yoon decided to move to Yongsan in 2022 – since then the Blue House has opened to the public for the first time in 74 years.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Preparing to Visit the Blue House

    Location : The Blue House is located right behind Gyeongbokgung Palace, and you can actually exit Gyeongbokgung at their back gate, cross the street, and head straight into the Blue House Grounds. The closest subway station is Gyeongbokgung Station on the orange Line 3, and from here you’ll have to walk the remainder of the way to the Blue House.

    What to Wear : The main thing to consider is the sheer size of the grounds. I clocked just over 15,000 steps from my visit – so my best recommendation is to wear comfortable walking shoes. Because this is where all important national and international meetings take place, in addition to where the president lived, I would also recommend wearing something a bit more modest and changing out of your hanboks if you chose to rent them during your visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

    What to Bring : When you enter the Blue House grounds, you’ll first go through a quick security scan where they’ll check you and your bags for any weapons or food, which aren’t allowed. Currently, cameras are allowed, however I think it’s important to note that the staff onsite were a bit unsure about my vlogging set up.

    Get a Guide : Personally, I highly recommend booking a tour of the Blue House. In order to visit on your own, you’ll need to make a reservation on their website, otherwise you can risk it to try and get one of the 500 daily admission tickets available onsite each day. If you do end up going on your own, there are signs available inside the main Blue House building that explains each room, but other that that you won’t find many signs around the rest of the grounds. This is exactly why I recommend the tour I booked with Jung – who was an excellent guide and told us all about past presidents, cultural differences in Korea, and current political events – stories you wouldn’t know if you visited on your own.

    My Favorite Tours in Seoul :

    -> DMZ & Suspension Bridge Full Day Trip

    -> Nami Island and Alpaca World Day Tour

    -> Minsokchon & Suwon Fortress

    Points of Interest at the Blue House

    1. Grand Garden : When you enter through the Main Gate, the first area you’ll want to stop at is the Grand Garden. Here, you can see the Main Building’s Blue Roof against the Bugaksan Mountain. Apparently, the location was initially chosen to align with Fengshue beliefs – and in front of the Blue House you can find a river flowing through some of the side gardens. Although you can’t walk through the Grand Garden, there are a few photo spots to get the best views of the Blue House.

    2. Main Building : The Main Building of the Blue House is the only building you can go inside to tour. Here you’ll find multiple rooms with a short description of each on a board outside the room. Although there were a few closed during my visit, my favorites were the Mugunghwa Room (Mugunghwa is the National Flower of Korea) where you can see photos of all the first ladies and a beautiful butterfly chandelier, and the Presidential Office where you can see the desk where the President conducted his/her official duties.

    3. Presidential Residence : From the Main Building, you can walk through the Small Garden and up to the Presidential Residence. Even though you can’t actually enter, I personally thought this was the most beautiful building on the Blue House grounds. Here you can walk the boardwalk surrounding the Presidential Residence and see a few sneak peaks into the house – places like the dining room and onsite salon.

    4. Chimryugak Pavilion : As you make your way back down the hill to Sangchunjae Hall and Nokjiwon Garden make sure to stop at the Chimryugak Pavilion. This building was initially closer to the Presidential Residence, but because they wanted to better preserve it the building was moved here (at least according to my guide). This is a quiet spot away from the crowds to enjoy a few minutes walking around in nature.

    5. Sangchunjae Hall : The next building on your tour around the Blue House is Sangchunjae Hall – a building that I thought was very similar to the Chimryugak Pavilion. However, rather than being used as an area to relax and recharge, the Sangchunjae Hall is actually used for the opposite – and is an area where visitors like Barack Obama and other special guests are shown around.

    6. Nokjiwon Garden : Right in front of Sangchunjae Hall is the Nokjiwon Garden (photo on left), a beautiful area where many presidents have planted various trees and other plants. There’s also a beautiful small creek flowing through this garden, which also houses a gigantic 175 year old Umbrella Pine Tree at it’s center.

    7. Heliport & Secret Bunker : As you continue your way down the main walking path, you’ll find a large stretch of green grass to your right. In addition to being the Blue House’s Heliport, this area is also where the current South Korean President, Yoon Suk Yeol, admitted to there being a secret bunker. Although the entrance is unknown, you’ll also see two stone turtles – which is rumored to be hiding a possible entrance to the bunker.

    8. Chunchumun Hall : The very last stop before you leave the Blue House grounds is the Chunchunmun Hall, an area where to be honest I didn’t see too much other than this fun little photo opportunity. Afterwards, you can head right out the Chunchunmun Gate and back out into the everyday streets of South Korea.

    Watch My Seoul Adventures Here!

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  • Korean Folk Village (Minsokchon): Complete Visitor’s Guide

    Minsokchon is the most popular Folk Village in Korea, mainly due to its’ proximity to Seoul – an area most tourists frequent. Although Minsokchon is located a little ways to the South of Seoul near Suwon, it’s easy to get to and it’s the perfect full day experience. Here, you can see what life was like for locals, both rich and poor, during the Joseon Dynasty. They even have live performances and plenty of activities you can participate in!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting to the Folk Village & What to Expect

    Minsokchon is located to the South of Seoul, and takes about one hour (depending on traffic) to get there from downtown Seoul. Personally, I think the easiest way to get there is by bus – which drops you off right across the street from the Folk Village’s Parking Lot. This bus station is called the “Korean Folk Village/Bora Hyosung/Samjung Apartment” stop, and the following buses stop here : 10-5, 88, 88-1, 4101, 5001-1, 30, 32, 551-2B, 54. For up to date information on how to get to Minsokchon, check their website here.

    Tickets cost 32,000 Won per adult, 26,000 Won per child, and 22,000 Won for Senior Citizens. Hours for Minsokchon depend on the season – they always open at 10:00am and close either at 6:00pm, 6:30pm, or 7:00pm – and also on any special events or holidays. If you have some things you’d like to put away while you explore, Minsokchon also has lockers available for guests (located directly to the right after you enter). Below, I’ve listed my 11 favorite things to do at Minsokchon to make the most of your trip! 

    My Favorite Tours Near Minsokchon :

    -> Full Day Folk Village & Suwon Fortress Tour

    -> Folk Village & Suwon Night Tour

    Best Things to Do at Minsokchon

    1. Night Experiences
    There are a handful of attractions that can only be experienced at Minsokchon after nightfall (they’re typically open until 6:00pm – 7:00pm depending on the season). One of course, is the Jigokcheon River, which has a giant moon in the center that lights up and the Wooden Bridge that is lined with traditional lanterns – very cutesy. In addition to the beautiful photo zones, they also have special traditional performances, LED performances, and shadow art performances at night!

    2. Minsokchon Horror Experience
    ​This terrifying experience shares the story of the shaman Lee Hwa – including village ghosts! To be honest I wasn’t quite up for it, but I’ve heard it’s one of the scariest and best ghost experiences found in Seoul. Located in the Amusement Village, all children must be accompanied by an adult.

    3. Traditional Holiday Experiences
    During national Korean Holidays, Minsokchon has special activities and experiences for guests to partake in! If you visit during these holidays, you’ll find unique experiences and foods that aren’t typically available to guests during “normal” visits. Dates can change annually depending on holidays based on the lunar calendar, but these include :

    Dongji – also considered the Winter Solstice festival, locals typically eat red bean soup with friends and family, a food also served at Minsokchon on this day (Dec. 21, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026)

    Korean New Year’s Day – a special day to bring in the Korean New Year where locals share rice cakes & rice cake soup (Jan. 29, 2025)

    Jeongwol Daeboreum – a Full Moon Festival celebrating the first full moon of the year, Minsokchon celebrates by building a triangular bonfire – also called the “Moon House” – for burning (Feb. 25, 2025)

    Double Third Festival – a festival originally from China, that is celebrated to ward off evil spirits, at Minsokchon they have special flower pancakes (Mar. 31, 2025)

    Buddha’s Birthday – throughout Korea, the coming of Buddha is celebrated in a large way – primarily through lantern parades and lantern making crafts – at Minsokchon they encourage guests to make special lanterns as well (May 5, 2025)

    Dano – during this festival, locals celebrate the coming of warm weather, planting of the yearly crop, and the coming summer season, during this festival locals wash their hair in boiled water with iris to ward off evil spirits (May 31, 2025)

    Chuseok – also dubbed the Korean Thanksgiving, Chuseok is celebrating the year’s harvest – and locals tend to gather with large meals which also includes gathering to make Songpyeon (you can even experience this right at Minsokchon!) (Oct. 5-7, 2025)

    4. Yippee! Yippee! Parade
    This parade route follows the path circling the Market Village, and showcases traditional clothing, dance, and music! Depending on when you’re visiting it can get quite crowded, so I recommend finding a seat about 10-15 minutes beforehand so you can get a good view. This is one of the best ways to see the traditional dance and “folk people” up close!

    5. Traditional Yeot Candy
    ​If you’re lucky, you’ll run into the traditional Candyman! He’ll be selling Yeot (pronounced “YUT”) – a very sticky rice taffy that is sweet and made from steamed rice, corn and sweet potatoes. Surprisingly it’s quite delicious, and when we met him he was super friendly too! Just be warned, they’re quite messy and VERY sticky – so if he asks if you want it cut make sure to say yes!

    6. Archery, Horseback Riding, Etc.
    ​In addition to special events during Korean holidays, Minsokchon also has traditional activities for visitors to try. During my visit I tried archery (a little more crooked than I was used to haha) but they also have horseback riding, traditional dyeing, and a few others! These types of activities are an extra cost, but usually fairly cheap.

    7. Traditional Tea House
    ​Tucked away on the other side of the river, you’ll find Minsokchon’s Traditional Tea House – which was adorable. They have floor seating – common in hanok buildings – and delicious tea sets. You can choose which type of tea you’d like and also what kind of dessert! When I visited there was no one else there and a very peaceful stop compared to the rest of Minsokchon!

    8. Korean Folk Museum
    ​Nearby the Tea House, you’ll also find the Korean Folk Museum. Here, you can walk through at your own pace to see life for local Korean’s during the late Joseon Dynasty. The museum showcases daily activities, chores, and customs for Korean’s during all 4 seasons.

    9. Eat Your Way Through the Market Place
    ​The Market Place at Minsokchon is the perfect place to grab lunch, especially if you’re at the village exploring all day. Here you can find traditional dishes like seafood and veggie pancakes, bibimbap, jajangmyeon, and nangmyeon! There’s large tables and lots of shade, making it the perfect spot to rest your feet.

    10. Enjoy the Amusement Village
    ​The Amusement Village is on the other side of the river inside Minsokchon, however if you want to start your day with some thrill you can head straight over the bridge to the right after entering Minsokchon. In the Amusement Village you can find all sorts of rides for the whole family – the Viking, bumper cars, and even some roller coasters! This is also where the scary Minsokchon Horror Experience is located.

    11. Enjoy the Folk Village!
    ​Even though there’s a ton to do at Minsokchon, one of the best things to do of course is exploring the Folk Village! Taking up a majority of the Minsokchon grounds, you can self-guide yourself through different buildings during the Joseon Dynasty – like the pottery shop, landowner’s houses, government offices, and even see what a nobleman’s mansion would have looked like in the day. Hidden throughout these grounds you’ll find all the live experiences and hands on activities I mentioned above!

    Watch My Minsokchon Adventures Here!

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  • 108 Vows of Korean Buddhism: My Temple Stay Experience

    During my recent Templestay Experience at Bonguensa Temple in Seoul, I had the opportunity to learn and try the daily rituals of 108 Vows that are typically performed by Korean Buddhists every day. For each Vow, monks or practicing Buddhists will complete a full bow to show their dedication to Buddha. You can read through all 108 Vows here, and watch my complete Templestay experience below.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    What are the 108 Vows?

    The 108 Vows are practiced daily by Buddhists, and are accompanied by a full bow for each vow. A full bow consists of beginning in a standing position, bending down to your knees in a crouch like position, continuing to bend and touching your forehead on the mat while raising your hands upwards, and then coming back up. Although completing 108 bows may sound like a lot, in reality the daily ritual goes fairly quickly.

    My Favorite Tours in Seoul :

    -> Nami Island & Alpaca World Day Trip

    -> DMZ & Suspension Bridge Day Tour

    -> Lotte World One Day Admission

    The 108 Vows of Buddhism

    1. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Buddha.

    2. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Dharma.

    3. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Sangha.

    4. I will bear in mind the truth that all beings will eventually cease to exist.

    5. I will bear in mind that only the spirit of togetherness can help beings survive.

    6. Understanding impermanence, I will escape the life of suffering.

    7. Understanding non-self, I will seek true happiness.

    8. I will realize that a deluded mind causes distress.

    9. I will gradually come to know that suffering comes from attachments.

    10. I will pacify my mind not to become greedy or feel rage.

    11. Finding the right path to enlightenment, I will practice diligently.

    12. I will overcome self-centeredness in regard to life and death.

    13. I will come to know that my happiness lies in the happiness of the world.

    14. I will be generous and help others unconditionally and without bias.

    15. Observing the precepts thoroughly, I will always act with compassion.

    16. With steadfast patience and endurance, I will accept hardship as a stepping stone to happiness.

    17. With diligence and sincerity, I will Buddhism into action in daily life.

    18. Based on the power of patience and diligence, I will attain enlightenment.

    19. Putting all effort toward finding truth, I will lead the world to peace.

    20. I will live wisely and compassionately as the Buddha did.

    21. Dispelling my delusions, I will retain the light of wisdom.

    22. With right view, I will regard the world impartially.

    23. With right thought, I will think in accordance with propriety.

    24. With right speech, I will speak only true and helpful words to all.

    25. With right action, I will engage in acts helpful to the world.

    26. With right livelihood, I won’t cause harm to others or myself.

    27. With right effort, I will keep moving forward toward truth.

    28. With right awareness, I will always live a mindful life.

    29. With right practice, I won’t lose peace of mind.

    ​30. Wherever I am, I will follow the Buddha’s perfect truth.

    31. With the beauty of perfect dharma, I will brightly illuminate the world.

    32. With harmony in speech and action, I will peacefully coexist with others.

    33. With harmony in intention and precepts, I will work and practice with others.

    34. With harmony in thought and gain, I will share with others peacefully.

    35. I will respect and make harmony with all beings.

    36. I will not wound or harm any living being.

    37. I will not use anyone with immoral intent or influence.

    38. Deceiving no one, I will build wholesome connections.

    39. I will not hurt anyone with harsh words.

    40. Pacifying my mind, I will not behave greedily.

    41. Thinking twice, I won’t act in anger.

    42. With honest and sincere words and deeds, I will care for all beings. 

    43. I will practice respect and forgiveness instead of arrogance and anger.

    44. I will readily share my possessions and joyfully disseminate truth.

    45. I will greet others with a smile and soft words.

    46. Dedicating my whole body and mind, I will do good and offer joy to others.

    47. I will always put myself in other’s shoes, and conduct myself properly.

    48. With a humble mindset, I will uphold and serve all beings.

    49. Being grateful for each small happiness, I will live a stisfied life.

    50. Leading by example, I will not defer the responsibility to act to others.

    51. When things must be done, I will be the first to do them.

    52. For things desired by many, I will be the first to concede.

    53. Together with the Buddhist fourfold community, I will propagate truth to the world.

    54. Following the Buddha’s example, I will steadfastly propagate the dharma.

    55. I will help everyone attain the Buddha’s freedom and peace.

    56. Uprightly and gently I will impart Buddhism to others and society.

    57. In a way to promote easier understanding for all, I will teach Buddhism.

    58. Using words understandable to all, I will teach Buddhism.

    59. I will earnestly introduce Buddhism first to my family and people close to me.

    60. I will teach Buddhism to others regardless of class or social status.

    61. I will teach Buddhism not with words only, but by example.

    62. I will disseminate Buddhism for the happiness and benefit of all.

    63. I wil bear in mind that all beings are inherently buddhas.

    64. I will live by treating all others as inherent buddhas.

    65. I will face all matters with a compassionate and good heart.

    66. I will be equally kind to everyone.

    67. I will praise and encourage everyone without bias.

    68. I will not look down on others with arrogance.

    69. I will not marginalize animals or small, trivial creatures.

    70. In any dispute, I will come forward and promote reconsiliation.

    71. I will not blame others for not taking my side.

    72. I will not pass by someone carrying a heavy load without helping.

    73. I will never turn a blind eye to people who are struggling.

    74. I will contribute to social communities based on the Buddhist spirit.

    75. I will walk the Buddhist path, becoming more harmonious and mature.

    76. We Buddhists will work together to resolve social issues.

    77. I will strive to help Buddhists take leading roles in society.

    78. I will help my children grow up properly in the bosom of Buddha.

    79. I will help teenagers grow into good Buddhists.

    80. I will help young college students live with more energy and freedom.

    81. I will work together with the middle-aged to encourage their enthusiasm.

    82. I will help the elderly to confront death with dignity.

    83. With my dedication as a Buddhist, I will set an example for society.

    84. To all people in society, I will be a Buddhist who practices what he preaches.

    85. I will always keep, recite, and remember the Buddha’s teachings.

    86. I will dedicate widely the merits of my steadfast practice and generosity.

    87. I will remember that the mind of non-discrimination is the buddha mind.

    88. I will not judge anyone for having different thoughts from me.

    89. I will not judge anyone based on their religion, culture, or identity.

    90. I will neither look down on the poor nor envy the rich.

    91. I will not judge people by their appearance or position.

    92. I will judge based on truth, not on what benefits me.

    93. I will put harmony at the top of my value system in life.

    94. Embracing all impartially, I will be a true friend to all.

    95. By practicing Buddhism in the secular world, I wil spread hope and courage.

    96. The sincere practice of each individual will lead to the rebirth of Korean Buddhism.

    97. By freeing my mind, I will work for peace in the world.

    98. Sharing the pains of society, I will readily dedicate myself to it.

    99. Based on the benefits of faith and practice, I will keep making new connections.

    100. Sharing the merits of my practice, I will make Buddhism more dynamic.

    101. I will regard the sick and lonely as inherent buddhas.

    102. I will put the obvious duty of Buddhists into action here and now.

    103. We, the fourfold community, will share the joy and sorrow of all citizens.

    104. We, the fourfold community, will share the pains of birth, aging, sickness, and death will all people.

    105. With steadfast faith and vows, I will reinvigorate Buddhism.

    106. The diligent, combined efforts of the fourfold community will reinvigorate Buddhism.

    107. Blessing all beings, I will repay my debt of gratitude for encountering the Buddha’s teachings.

    108. I will devote my whole life to propagating the Buddha’s teachings.

    Watch My Templestay Experience Here!

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  • Bongeunsa Temple Stay Review: Everything You Need to Know

    A Templestay Experience in Seoul is one of the most unique cultural experiences you can partake in when visiting Seoul. If you’re lucky enough to include this in your South Korea itinerary, I highly encourage you to read through this post to make the best of your time there and know exactly what to expect and what to pack with you. Bongeunsa Temple is located right in the heart of Seoul, and this is hands down one of my favorite experiences in all of Korea.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    How to Book Your Templestay Experience & What to Expect

    Booking your Bongeunsa Templestay experience is quite easy. You can simply head to the Templestay Reservation Website and choose the dates you’d like. The English Templestay Program is held over the first weekend of each month, from 2pm on Saturday until 11am on Sunday. The cost is 120,000 Won per person, and although they encourage you to pay online you can also pay with cash at check in.

    Overall, there’s a lot to expect from the Templestay program. All of your meals are included, and although it’s frowned upon to leave leftovers, you can always grab a smaller plate and then go back up for more. During your Templestay experience you’ll be asked to wear the orange uniforms and slippers while inside the buildings, so I recommend easy shoes to slip on and off each time you enter/exit a building. You’re “bed time” is quite early, but you’ll appreciate it when you get up at 4 am the next morning. I’ve listed a complete schedule breakdown below so you can know what to expect, but overall I would say this is an incredible and unique experience you won’t want to miss out on during your visit to Seoul.

    There are a few things you’ll need to bring with you for your Templestay experience, including comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and off, a refillable water bottle, any toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, and towels for your use.

    During your Templestay, there are a few “rules” or “expectations” you’ll be asked to follow during your stay. These are as follows :

    When checking out, please clean your room and return any clothes and bedding to the program leader. Put trash in a bag and put it outside the front door.

    When you see a Sunim (monk), half bow by putting your palms together.

    Drinking and smoking are not allowed.

    Silence is recommended inside the temple.

    Please be punctual.

    When moving around, follow your program leader and stay in a line.

    During meal times, please try not to leave food – only put enough on your plate to eat.

    Do not disturb other participants during your break time.

    If sharing a room with other participants, please be aware of cell phone calls or watching videos.

    My Must-Do Tours in Seoul :

    -> DMZ and Suspension Bridge Full Day Tour

    -> Minsokchon Folk Village Day Trip

    -> Nami Island and Alpaca World Day Trip

    An Overview of the Templestay Schedule

    Day 1 Program :
    At 2:00 pm you’ll begin the check in process. If you haven’t paid yet, you’ll be asked to pay in cash as you check in. Then you’ll be brought inside, where you’ll wait for all participants to arrive while the program leader passes out uniforms for your stay and welcomes you with a cup of Sikhye (식혜), a Korean rice punch drink.

    Around 3:00 pm, after everyone checks into their rooms and has a chance to change, you’ll be led around the temple grounds on a guided tour. You’ll learn the history of the temple, like how it was moved from Busan, and basic temple etiquette.

    From 4:00 pm onwards you’ll be led through a variety of temple activities. From the Traditional Tea Ceremony where you’ll learn traditional Korean tea etiquette, to the Sutra Gold Ink experience where you’ll trace traditional Korean Buddhist sayings in gold ink – you’ll eventually be brought to your first meal at the temple. Like I mentioned above, you’ll be asked to only grab what you’ll eat so that you don’t leave leftovers, and before you eat you’ll say a short Buddhist prayer. Our meals were very traditional, and consisted of rice, tofu, different vegetables (banchan) like kimchi and seaweed soup.

    After dinner, you’ll experience your first Yebul ceremony inside the main temple, and then have a long discussion/guided meditation with a monk. During this time, you’ll be able to ask questions you have about Buddhism, and be taught how to meditate. At 9:00 pm it’ll be lights out for your early morning tomorrow!

    Day 2 Program :
    At 4:20 am, bright and early, your Templestay Experience will continue with a Yebul ceremony at the main temple. Afterwards you’ll experience the 108 Vows, a daily ritual for practicing Buddhists and monks. For each vow, you’ll also perform a full bow – but if you feel like you can’t complete all 108 bows you can sit or stand in the back of the room.

    After the bows you’ll have a short break time, then be brought to breakfast – which had the same dishes and expectations as dinner. Afterwards, you’ll have a bit more free time to explore the temple grounds with hardly any other visitors around – a rarity in Seoul. This is a great time to enjoy the peace and quiet of the temple grounds, and if you’re in a rush to head somewhere afterwards, to clean up your room and pack your things.

    Around 9:00 am you’ll have your last Templestay Experience activity, a final tea time with the monk you met last night. He’ll lead you through a quick, personal tea experience, where you can chat with him and ask him any more questions you have about him, Buddha, or Buddhism. From 10:00 am to 11:00 am you’ll be able to clean up, check out, and finish up the survey you were asked to take. Don’t forget to take any of your gifts and souvenirs you’ve been given during your experience!

    Watch My Templestay Experience Here!

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