"Spiritual Home: A Zen Journey to Jogyesa Temple in Seoul"
#Seoul Attractions
Jogyesa Temple (조계사), located in the center of Seoul, South Korea, is a historic Buddhist temple and the spiritual center of Korean Buddhism. This is not only a holy place for believers to worship Buddha and pray, but also an ideal place for urban people to find tranquility and spiritual comfort. Walking through it, I felt a strong sense of Zen and peaceful atmosphere, as if the hustle and bustle of the city was instantly left behind.
1. First encounter with Jogyesa Temple - a tranquil oasis in the city
Turning from the bustling Insadong neighborhood into the temple entrance, the scene in front of you instantly becomes quiet and peaceful. The majestic gate pillar at the entrance of the temple symbolizes that once one enters Buddhism, one will put aside worldly worries and embark on a journey of spiritual purification.
As you enter the temple, quaint buildings and colorful lotus lanterns come into view, bringing both visual and spiritual shock. Every step makes people feel the profound heritage of traditional Korean Buddhist culture.
2. Historical background of Jogyesa Temple
Built in 1910, Jogyesa Temple is the headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the largest Buddhist sect in Korea, and remains the core location of Korean Buddhist activities.
The temple's mission is to pass on the teachings of Zen Buddhism and is dedicated to promoting Buddhism and cultural exchanges. Especially the annual Buddha's Birthday celebration makes this temple an important attraction for domestic and foreign tourists to visit and worship Buddha.
3. Architectural features and must-visit attractions
Daewongjeon
When you enter Jogyesa Temple, the most eye-catching thing is the main hall - Daewongjeon. The Buddha Sakyamuni is enshrined in the hall. The shining golden statue of Buddha inspires awe and peace in people's hearts.
The eaves of the Great Hall are intricately carved, and the brackets are stacked one upon another, showing the beauty of the craftsmanship of traditional Korean wooden architecture. The murals in the hall tell the life story of the Buddha, leading people to contemplate the meaning and wisdom of life.
Stupa
In the center of the courtyard stands a five-story stupa, which is meticulously carved and symbolizes the wisdom and eternity of Buddhism. Believers often worship devoutly under the tower, praying for peace and happiness.
Lotus lantern decoration
The most eye-catching thing in the temple is the colorful lotus lanterns hanging all over the courtyard. Especially during the Buddha's Birthday, the sea of lanterns interweaves into a dreamlike scene, implying the Buddha's light shining everywhere and praying for peace.
4. Activities and cultural experiences
Buddha's Birthday Celebration
Every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, Jogyesa Temple holds a grand **Dandenang Festival (연등회)** and Buddha's Birthday Celebration. At that time, thousands of colorful lotus lanterns will be hung inside and outside the temple, symbolizing the wisdom and compassion that illuminate the darkness of the world.
Parades are also held here, where visitors can make lanterns by themselves and experience the charm of traditional Korean culture and Buddhist rituals.
Meditation Experience
The temple offers the **Temple Stay Experience** activity, which allows participants to deeply experience Buddhist culture, learn to sit in meditation and chant sutras, and temporarily escape from the busy life in the city to regain inner peace and strength.
Blessing ceremony and worship of Buddha
Both local believers and tourists will light incense and candles in the temple, worship Buddha, and pray for the health of their family and success in their career. This place also attracts many students and candidates to come and pray for academic progress and good exam results.
5. Visiting tips and information
• Address: 45, Gyeongji-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Transportation: Take Subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station or Line 3 to Anguk Station, then walk for about 5 minutes to arrive.
• Opening hours: Open all year round, 06:00–21:00
• Ticket information: Free admission, suitable for visitors of all ages.
• Best time to visit: During the Buddha's Birthday Festival in spring, the lantern decorations are at their most spectacular; in autumn, the temples are covered in red maple leaves, creating a charming sight.
6. Baptism and enlightenment of the soul
Walking in Caoxi Temple, I felt a kind of tranquility and peace from the heart. This is not only a religious holy place, but also a quiet corner for urban people to calm their souls and find comfort.
The lights flicker under the pagoda and the sounds of chanting in the courtyard echo, as if reminding us that in our busy lives, we must also leave a space for our souls to rest.
If you come to Seoul, don’t forget to take some time to walk into this ancient temple and feel the quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle and talk to yourself. Perhaps you will find your own inner balance and strength here.