Haedong Yonggungsa Temple | Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (해동 용궁사) is one of the most spectacular temples in South Korea, located on the northeastern coast of Busan, facing the Sea of Japan (East Sea). Known for its breathtaking seaside views and its unique location, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a popular spiritual site and one of the most visited Buddhist temples in Korea. The temple's picturesque setting, perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, makes it a must-see for both tourists and locals.

History and Significance:

Founding:

• Haedong Yonggungsa was founded in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty by Shimamun, a priest from the Cheongryangsa Temple in Gyeongju. The temple’s name, Yonggungsa, translates to “Dragon Palace Temple” in English, and the name refers to a legendary dragon said to inhabit the temple's waters and cliffs.
• Originally, the temple was built as a small meditation retreat, but over the centuries, it grew in size and importance. It has been a place of spiritual practice, particularly for those seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance:

• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is unique in its location. Unlike most temples in Korea, which are usually nestled in mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa is located right by the sea, giving it an incredibly distinctive atmosphere. The temple is particularly known for its seawater shrine where devotees pray for peace and prosperity.
• It is considered a spiritual destination, particularly for those seeking healing and fortune, and the temple’s beauty and serene atmosphere make it a great place for meditation and reflection.

Key Features and Attractions:

Main Temple Hall (Daeungjeon):

• The Daeungjeon, or the Main Hall, is the focal point of the temple. It is the place where visitors can pay respects to the Buddha. Inside, the hall features a large golden statue of Buddha, surrounded by various Buddhist paintings and icons.
• The Main Hall is a symbol of peace and serenity, and visitors can sit and meditate in its tranquil environment. The sound of the waves crashing on the rocks below adds to the calming atmosphere.

Buddha’s Hand:

• As you approach the main temple, you’ll pass through an impressive pathway lined with stone lanterns, and one of the unique features of the temple is the Buddha’s hand, where visitors can make wishes and pray for protection and good fortune. The hand-shaped sculptures are symbolic of Buddha’s blessing and the power of prayer.

Seawater Shrine:

• One of the most distinct aspects of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is its seawater shrine, located near the cliffside. This shrine houses a Buddha statue, and it’s believed that the ocean’s waves bring spiritual healing to those who pray here.
• The shrine is particularly special because it is one of the very few places in Korea where visitors can worship and pray directly by the sea, offering a rare connection between spirituality and nature. Many visitors come here to offer prayers for prosperity and success.

Statues and Monuments:

• The temple is adorned with several statues, including a large statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Guan Yin), which is said to offer protection and guidance to those in need. The temple also features stone carvings and Buddhist motifs, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
• One of the most iconic statues is a three-story pagoda, which provides a majestic view of the surrounding sea and landscape.

Bridge to the Sea:

• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is connected to the sea by a stone bridge that leads visitors to an area with a large statue of the Dragon King and other smaller Buddhist statues. This bridge offers a spiritual experience as it links the land and the sea, symbolizing the connection between the earthly and divine realms.
• The bridge also provides amazing views of the coastline, making it an excellent spot for photos.

The Stone Lanterns:

• As you walk around the temple grounds, you will see many traditional stone lanterns, a common feature in Korean temples. These lanterns are meant to guide visitors along their spiritual journey and are often lit during ceremonies and festivals.

Dancing Dragon Statue:

• The temple’s dragon statues are a popular sight. The Dragon Dance statue, in particular, symbolizes the mythical and spiritual aspect of the temple and its connection to the legendary dragon that is believed to reside in the temple’s waters.

Temple Grounds and Surroundings:

• The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, including rocky cliffs, lush greenery, and the endless ocean in the distance. The area is particularly popular in the spring when wildflowers bloom, and visitors can take a leisurely walk around the grounds.
• The cliffside views from the temple are stunning, and visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the temple while listening to the sound of the ocean waves crashing against the rocks below.

Activities and Things to Do:

Praying and Meditation:

• Many visitors come to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to pray for good health, success, and protection. It’s a serene place to meditate and reflect, and visitors can participate in the temple's Buddhist rituals if they wish.

Photography:

• The temple's scenic location offers plenty of opportunities for photography, especially with the temple’s iconic views of the ocean and cliffs. The sunrise and sunset views are particularly stunning, and it’s a great spot for capturing the beauty of Busan's coastline.

Exploring the Temple Grounds:

• Take time to explore the temple's surroundings, including its garden paths, statues, and scenic viewpoints. Walking around the temple and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere is a great way to spend time.

Cultural Learning:

• Visitors can learn about Korean Buddhism and the significance of the temple's architecture and symbols. The temple often has signs explaining the history of its structures and the role of Buddhism in the region’s spiritual practices.

Attending Buddhist Ceremonies:

• If you time your visit right, you may have the opportunity to attend one of the Buddhist ceremonies or festivals held at the temple, such as the Buddha’s Birthday or other important religious holidays in the Buddhist calendar.

Visitor Information:

Getting There:

• By Bus: You can take Busan’s public bus system, and there are buses that go directly to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. The closest bus stop is typically marked as "Haedong Yonggungsa Temple" or "Yonggungsa Temple."
• By Subway: From Haeundae Station, take a local bus or taxi to the temple.
• By Taxi: Taking a taxi is another easy way to reach the temple from downtown Busan or Haeundae.

Opening Hours:

• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is open year-round. The temple itself is open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the Busan Tower and some other attractions within the temple may have different hours of operation.

Admission Fees:

• Admission to the temple is free. However, there might be a small fee if you wish to use the private parking or participate in specific activities.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding natural beauty (flowers in spring and fall foliage) is at its peak. The temple is also quieter in the early mornings, making it ideal for a peaceful visit.

Conclusion:

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a stunning blend of spirituality, nature, and culture. With its unique location on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, the temple offers visitors a peaceful and reflective environment to connect with nature and experience Korea’s Buddhist heritage. Whether you’re visiting for its scenic views, spiritual significance, or to simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings, Haedong Yonggungsa is a must-see attraction in Busan.