Zen Journey: A Spiritual Trip to Jogyesa Temple

Day 1, I arrived at Jogyesa Temple, a peaceful sanctuary in the bustling city of Seoul. The colorful lanterns at the temple entrance swayed in the wind, as if welcoming every visitor. Passing through the mountain gate, I felt a sense of peace that was completely different from the outside world. The solemn and compassionate Buddha statue in the Daeungjeon Hall inspired me to worship quietly. I participated in the 'Zen Meditation Experience' at the temple, where under the guidance of a monk, I closed my eyes, meditated, and felt the rhythm of my breath and the tranquility of my mind. In the afternoon, I strolled through the alleys around the temple, where the teahouses and bookstores exuded a unique Zen atmosphere. Sitting in a traditional teahouse, sipping tea and listening to the temple's wind chimes, it felt as if time had slowed down. Day 2 began with a visit to nearby Insadong. The streets here are filled with traditional Korean cultural vibes, with handicraft shops and modern art galleries creating a unique atmosphere. I picked up some wood carvings and pottery as souvenirs. In the afternoon, I returned to Jogyesa Temple and attended a Buddhist ceremony. As the chanting echoed, my inner restlessness gradually subsided. When I left the temple, the sunset painted the sky red, and the sunlight on the temple roof added a touch of serene beauty.