The temple is in the middle of residential area. It is small but quiet and peaceful. I can't say... read more
The temple is in the middle of residential area. It is small but quiet and peaceful. I can't say... read more
We organised this from Australia. Communication was quick and informative, however a I was a... read more
We spent an afternoon, a temple visit, participating in their program. We performed the ceremonies, had tea and a very enlightening discussion with the Zen Master and finished the program with a temple (vegetarian) dinner.
A good way to learn about one of Korea's major religions.
In the heart of Seoul, Myogaksa is Korean Buddhist temple offering a short stay (two days and one night), with a special program for visitors, mostly foreigners, wanting to discover Korean buddhist rituals, which fill a day in the life of a monk. It was a very inspiring exprience, animated by the female monk, Yeo Yeo.
Prayer with 108 beads on string, meditation, morning bell ritual, and finaly, tea ceremony, were the most impressive moments of our stay.
For travellers interested in Korean religious culture, it is the best way to get in touch with this rich spiritual heritage.
I wanted to try a templestay program to learn more about the Buddhist culture and history in Korea. I chose this place because it was in Seoul and close to a subway station so it would be easy to get to without a car. I stayed for the "2 day 1 night" program which really means 1 afternoon, 1 night, and 1 morning, all up about 24 hours.
Some of the activities we did include prostrations (standing, bending, kneeling, repeat), making a prayer bead string, meditation, ringing a big bell, walking in a park, and a tea ceremony. We ate traditional korean Buddhist food which is all vegetarian and not spicy, which was great because that is exactly the kind of food I like! We slept on what I assume are traditional mat/bed things. The facilities were very nice. I shared a room with another female participant. The room had aircon which was great because it was quite warm out.
The staff was very friendly and nice. We had the opportunity to have tea with the head monk. The other participants of the temple stay were mostly foreigners also interested in learning about Buddhist culture.
Overall I really enjoyed my experience and I'm glad I did it though I don't feel like I need to do it multiple times.