Bongeunsa Temple

Once known as Gyeonseongsa Temple, Bongeunsa temple is located to the north of COEX building, and was constructed in the 10th year of Shilla King Weongseong’s reign (794). In 1498, Queen Jeonghyeon refurbished Gyeonseongsa Temple at the east of King Seongjong’s royal mausoleum and renamed the temple as Bongeunsa. Originally located near the royal maulsoleum (1km southwest), the temple was transferred to its current location during Joseon King Myeongjong’s reign. 3,479 Buddhist scriptures of 13 types, including the works of Kim Jeong-hee, are stored here. The Buddhist ceremony called Jeongdaebulsa, is held every September 9th of the lunar calendar, where monks march carrying the scriptures on their heads and recite the Beopseongge (Buddhist rites).[Source: Korea tourism website]

COEX mall is right opposite to the Bongeunsa temple and with little time management both of them should be manageable in one day. The temple is splendid in beauty and mystic. Among Waujeongsa, Yongjusa and Bongeunsa, I would rate Bongeunsa the highest in-terms of beauty and the peace it gives. There is a majestic statue of Buddha right at the center of the temple. The temple is also rated one among top 7 temples in South Korea by Lonely planet. The temple offers two day temple stay for 70K won.

For more information read : Bongeunsa Temple

Verdict

• Ease of transportation: 4/5
• Value for money: 4/5
• Recommended group size: 4 or more

Here are some pictures