Bongwonsa Temple Seoul
A historic Buddhist temple in Seoul's Gangnam district, offering serene beauty and enchanting lantern displays, especially at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lanterns create magic
Bongwonsa Temple Seoul
Best Time
Lanterns create magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buddhist temple in Seoul's Gangnam district, offering serene beauty and enchanting lantern displays, especially at night.
"Bongwonsa Temple is a peaceful oasis in Gangnam, especially magical when illuminated by lanterns at night."
🎯 Visit at Night
The temple is stunning after dark with illuminated lanterns. A must-see!
🤝 Combine with COEX
Easily accessible from COEX Mall for a full day of exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lanterns Aglow
Main temple grounds
Experience the ethereal beauty of colorful lanterns illuminating the temple grounds, especially enchanting at night.
Lotus Flower Blooms
Temple ponds
During spring, witness the vibrant spectacle of lotus flowers in full bloom, adding a serene and picturesque touch.
Bell Ceremony
Main pavilion
Catch the deeply spiritual 5 PM bell ceremony for a moment of reflection and cultural immersion.
Planning Your Visit
Nighttime Magic
Combine with COEX
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit at Night
The temple is stunning after dark with illuminated lanterns. A must-see!
🤝 Combine with COEX
Easily accessible from COEX Mall for a full day of exploration.
Bongeunsa - A temple in Gangnam Area
🌸 See Lotus Blooms
Visit in spring for the beautiful lotus flowers.
🔔 Don't Miss Bell Ceremony
The 5 PM bell ceremony is a profound experience.
Which buddhist temple do you recommend?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit at Night
The temple is stunning after dark with illuminated lanterns. A must-see!
🤝 Combine with COEX
Easily accessible from COEX Mall for a full day of exploration.
🌸 See Lotus Blooms
Visit in spring for the beautiful lotus flowers.
🔔 Don't Miss Bell Ceremony
The 5 PM bell ceremony is a profound experience.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Located right by Bongeunsa Station, very convenient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bongwonsa Temple for its serene beauty, especially the enchanting lantern displays at night. Its convenient location next to COEX Mall is a significant plus, allowing for easy integration into a day of sightseeing and shopping. While generally well-loved, some find it can get crowded during peak times or festivals.
"Incredible and beautiful place. It has several temples and the big one has 3000 golden Buddhas. Monks live there and are well preserved. Behind the temple is the trail for the mountain. Nice place to visit."
Aaron Chaverri
"In a country proudly steeped in culture, with so many temples around, Bongwonsa must truly be one of the few unspoilt ones. This is because it is located on a hill top.
I’ve seen pictures of Bongwonsa at spring time and notices the pride of the caretakers to keep it neat and spruced at all times for all visitors.
As with any visit to a place of worship, do treat the place with utmost respect."
Sean Y
"A small temple in a serene forested setting. The 7024 bus has a stop near the temple. Inclined easy walk on the neighborhood street from the bus stop to the temple entrance. After viewing the Buddhist temple, walking through the forested trail to Yonsei University is an easy walk where there’s a small temple within the University Medical Complex. Free admission for both temples"
D K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bongwonsa Temple is incredibly easy to reach. Take the Seoul Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station or the Seoul Subway Line 9 to Bongeunsa Station. Both stations offer direct underground access or are just a short walk away, making it a convenient stop, especially when combined with a visit to COEX Mall.
Yes, Bongwonsa Temple is located right next to COEX Mall in the Gangnam district. This makes it very convenient to visit both attractions in the same day.
You can use either Seoul Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station or Line 9 to Bongeunsa Station. Both provide excellent access to the temple.
While the subway is the most recommended and direct method, several bus routes also serve the area around Samseong Station and COEX Mall, from where you can easily walk to the temple.
Limited parking may be available, but it's highly recommended to use public transportation due to the temple's central location and proximity to major transit hubs like COEX Mall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bongwonsa Temple generally offers free admission to its grounds, allowing visitors to explore its serene atmosphere without a ticket.
Bongwonsa Temple is typically open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to experience its beauty throughout the day. However, specific hours for certain buildings or events may vary.
Yes, visiting Bongwonsa Temple at night is highly recommended as the lanterns are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.
Advance booking is not required for general entry to Bongwonsa Temple as admission is free. You can visit spontaneously.
Bongwonsa Temple hosts various events, including the Lotus Lantern Festival for Buddha's Birthday, which is a spectacular time to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the main temple buildings, admire the intricate architecture, enjoy the peaceful gardens, and witness the daily bell ceremony. The illuminated lanterns at night are a major highlight.
Yes, Bongwonsa Temple offers a peaceful and educational experience for families. Children can learn about Buddhist culture in a serene environment.
Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies.
The 5 PM bell ceremony is a daily ritual where a large bell is struck, creating a resonant sound believed to bring peace and blessings. It's a significant cultural experience.
Dress respectfully when visiting Bongwonsa Temple. Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended, as it is a place of worship.
📸 📸 Photography
The main temple buildings with their ornate roofs, the serene courtyards, and especially the illuminated lanterns at night offer fantastic photo opportunities. The lotus ponds in spring are also picturesque.
Photography is usually allowed in the outdoor areas and courtyards. However, it's best to check for any signage or ask temple staff regarding photography inside the main prayer halls, as it may be restricted.
For a unique perspective, visit at dusk to capture the transition from daylight to the illuminated lanterns. Nighttime photography is highly recommended for its magical glow.
Be mindful of worshippers and avoid using flash photography directly at people or sacred objects. Respectful photography is appreciated.
Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or for specific events to ensure smooth visitor flow and safety. It's advisable to check with temple staff if you plan to use one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to explain the temple's purpose and history, or opt for an early evening visit to see the lanterns light up. The proximity to COEX Mall also means you can easily transition to more active entertainment or dining options if the kids need a change of pace.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Its convenient location near public transport and COEX Mall makes it an easy and safe destination to navigate independently. You can easily spend an hour or two soaking in the ambiance or combine it with other nearby attractions without feeling rushed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
During the day, the temple's traditional Korean design, serene courtyards, and seasonal lotus blooms provide ample subjects. Be mindful of respectful photography, especially during ceremonies, and consider visiting during the golden hour or twilight for dramatic lighting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Serenity of Bongwonsa Temple
Visitors often remark on the temple's beautiful architecture, characterized by traditional Korean design elements. The main sanctuary, adorned with vibrant murals and intricate carvings, is a focal point. The surrounding gardens provide a peaceful space for contemplation, and the presence of lotus ponds adds to the scenic beauty, especially during the blooming season.
The temple's accessibility is a major draw. Located just steps from Bongeunsa Subway Station and adjacent to the massive COEX Mall, it's an easy addition to any Seoul itinerary. This juxtaposition of ancient spirituality and modern urban life is a unique aspect of Bongwonsa, offering a multifaceted experience for visitors.
Experiencing Bongwonsa at Night
Many travelers recommend visiting in the evening specifically to witness this lantern display. The soft light reflects beautifully on the temple structures and pathways, making for a truly memorable and photogenic experience. It's a peaceful way to end a day of exploring Seoul, providing a moment of quiet reflection amidst the city's vibrant energy.
While the lanterns are a permanent feature, they are particularly vibrant during festivals like the Lotus Lantern Festival, celebrating Buddha's birthday. Even outside of festival times, the nightly illumination provides a captivating and spiritual ambiance that draws visitors seeking a unique cultural encounter.
Cultural Immersion: Bell Ceremonies and Festivals
Beyond the daily rituals, Bongwonsa is renowned for its participation in major Buddhist festivals. The Lotus Lantern Festival, held in celebration of Buddha's birthday, is a particularly spectacular time to visit. The temple and surrounding streets are adorned with thousands of intricate lanterns, creating a breathtaking visual display and a vibrant atmosphere of celebration.
These events provide a unique glimpse into Korean Buddhist traditions and offer visitors a chance to connect with the local culture on a deeper level. Participating in or observing these ceremonies and festivals can be a highlight of any trip to Bongwonsa Temple.
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