Explore the Beautiful Haedong Yonggungsa Temple 해동 용궁사

📍86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan | 부산광역시 기장군 기장읍 용궁길 86
🚆Haeundae Station (Line 2, Exit 7) | OSIRIA Station (Donghae Line, Exit 1)
🕒 5:00 – 19:30 daily
₩  Free (except parking fees)
🌐 www.yongkungsa.or.kr
☎️ +82-51-722-7744

Have you ever listened to the soothing rhythm of waves while standing in a temple in Korea? If not, a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan should be included in your itinerary. Renowned as one of the most beautiful temples in Korea, it’s perched on the edge of the land, where the sea meets the mountains, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a painting. Beyond its stunning location, there’s plenty more to discover. This article will provide all the information you need to plan your visit.

How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

To visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan, you can start from OSIRIA Station or Haeundae Station.

• From OSIRIA Station (Donghae Line, Exit 1): Exit the station and turn left, then walk to the main road and turn right to find the bus stop (a 1-minute walk). Take Bus #1001 or #139 for about 4 minutes and leave at the Yonggungsa Temple stop. Walk 40 meters in the same direction the bus was moving, turn right onto Yonggung-gil, and walk 12 minutes to the temple. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station exit, which takes about 6 minutes.
• From Haeundae Station (Line 2, Exit 7): Exit the station and walk 20 meters to the bus stop. Take Bus #1001 (27 minutes, frequent), Bus #181 (27 minutes), or Bus #100 (32 minutes), and get off at the Yonggungsa Temple stop. Walk 40-50 meters in the same direction the bus was moving, turn right onto Yonggung-gil, and walk 12 minutes to the temple.

If you come from Seoul, check out our article “How to get to Busan from Seoul.”

About Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan is a unique and enchanting destination. Dating back to 1376, this temple is special because it’s right by the sea, unlike most Korean temples tucked away in the mountains. Although renovated in 1970, it retains its traditional charm and colors.

Inside, you’ll discover a peaceful sanctuary with a beautifully designed Buddhist sanctum and a stunning three-story pagoda with four lions. The 108 stairs and stone lanterns add to its allure, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.

Throughout the year, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple attracts visitors for various reasons. On New Year’s Day, it’s a popular spot to make wishes as you watch the sunrise over the sea. The cherry blossoms bloom in April, adding color to the temple grounds. And during Buddha’s birthday celebrations, the temple comes alive with beautifully lit lanterns, creating a magical ambiance that’s truly unforgettable.

Things to see and do at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Get some snacks and souvenirs at the small market at the entrance

You’ll find a charming market bustling with activity at the temple entrance. Here, you can sample delicious Korean street food like Hotteok, eomuk fish cake, Bungeoppang, and tteokbokki.

As you explore, browse the souvenir and herb stalls for unique gifts to bring back home. It’s a friendly and lively start to your visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple!

Catching the sunrise at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Watching the sunrise at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan is an absolute must. It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sights around. 

As the red sun rises over the horizon, illuminating the morning twilight, you’ll feel a sense of pure joy. The temple opens just before sunrise, so arrive around 5 am to secure the best spot for this unforgettable experience.

Check out 12 Stone Zodiac Statues

As you enter the temple grounds, you’ll see 12 stone zodiac statues lining the path. Visitors often huddle around these statues at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, placing coins on them for luck and capturing memories with photos.

Each zodiac animal symbolizes a year in the 12-year cycle following Jupiter’s orbit. And for your information, there’s an interesting tradition: placing money next to your birth year’s animal is said to bring you protection from its guardian.

Visit Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha)

The standout feature of the entire complex is undoubtedly the majestic Buddhist Goddess of Mercy statue, affectionately known as the Seawater Great Goddess Buddha. It’s perched among the trees, overlooking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and it’s the focal point of the entire temple area. 

Interestingly, this temple is dedicated to honoring the Sea Goddess, which is quite rare in South Korea – there are only three temples like this in the country. Legend says that repeating her name can make your deepest wishes come true. So come prepared with your wish in mind when you visit!

Take 108 Stairs to Reach the 7-tier Pagoda

Another popular attraction at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is undoubtedly the 108 Stairs. As the name suggests, these stairs symbolize the 108 mind delusions in Buddhist beliefs.

The view from the top is breathtaking. After passing through a small bamboo tunnel, you emerge facing the sea. In the distance, you’ll spot the main temple nestled amidst the cliffs, while on the other side stands a golden Buddha gazing out towards the sea. You’ll find the 7-tier pagoda at the summit, the Traffic Safety Prayer Pagoda. If you want to avoid traffic accidents, stop and offer a prayer here!

Wander Around the Main Temple Areas

After crossing a picturesque stone bridge, you’ll reach the main temple area. Here, you’ll find several buildings housing various Buddha statues. The main temple sanctuary, Daeungjeon, the Yongwangdang shrine, and the Gulbeop Buddhist sanctum are inside a cave. There is also an impressive three-story pagoda with 4 lions nearby. Inside Daeungjeon Hall, you’ll encounter a stunning lying Buddha statue. Keep exploring, and you’ll come across the main smiling Buddha statue beside the hall.

Check out the Golden Jijang Bosal Statue

Make sure you check out the Golden Jijang Bosal Statue, which is located grandly by the coast of the temple. Right behind it, you’ll find an amazing ocean view. As you head towards the Buddha, you’ll get the best glimpse of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. The scene is picture-perfect, with the temple, sea, rugged coastline, and forest all in view.

Ease your Stress by Praying at Yacksayeorae Healing Buddha

True to its name, the Yacksayeorae Healing Buddha is believed to have the power to heal physical and mental issues. Positioned in a spot considered auspicious according to Feng-Shui theory and renowned for its miraculous abilities, it draws many Buddhist followers seeking relief from their illnesses. This statue holds a special place in the hearts of those seeking healing.

Some tips and things to keep in mind

• The temple is an active place of worship, so remember to dress respectfully.
• Please keep your voice low while inside the temple. 
• Enter and exit using the side doors, as the front door is reserved for monks. 
• Remember to arrange your shoes neatly.
• The temple is often crowded, so consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Visit during festivals. The temple complex is specially decorated with paper lanterns during Buddha’s Birthday celebrations. 
• Wear comfortable shoes with good traction, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Nearby attractions

Skyline Luge Busan

• Address: 205 Gijanghaean-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan
• Open hours: 10:00 – 19:00 daily
• Contact: +82 51-722-6002
• Website: www.skylineluge.kr/busan

Just a 2-minute walk from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Skyline Luge Busan is a great place to visit. Originally from Rotorua, New Zealand, the luge is now a popular activity worldwide, with over 40 million rides. In Busan, Skyline Luge is located at Osiria Theme Park in Dongbusan. It offers a fun experience for the whole family, featuring beautiful sea views. You can take the Skyride lift to the top, then ride a luge cart down one of the four thrilling 2.4-kilometer tracks.

Misigilsang Food Hall 

• Address: 34 Dongbusangwangwang-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan
• Open hours: 10:30 – 21:00 | Last order 1hr before closing.
• Contact: +82 51-722-8155
• Website: blog.naver.com/busanfoodhall

After exploring Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, satisfy your hunger at Misigilsang Food Hall, just a 5-minute drive away. Opened in June 2021, this bustling food mall features 16 restaurants serving a variety of delicious cuisines, from fresh seafood and Korean favorites to Western, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes and fast food options. Additionally, you’ll find popular cafes like Starbucks, bakeries, waffle shops, and ice cream stores. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great meal after your temple visit.

Lotte World Adventure Busan

• Address: 42, Dongbusangwangwang-ro, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan
• Open hours: 10:00 – 21:00 daily
• Contact: +82 1661-2000
• Website: adventurebusan.lotteworld.com

Another must-visit destination is Lotte World Adventure in Busan. Divided into six themed zones, the park features unique attractions like the Talking Tree in the Tinker Falls Zone and the scenic Rory Castle in the Royal Garden Zone, providing stunning views of Busan and the sea. 

Plus, rad rides like the Giant Digger and Giant Splash will stimulate your heart. Lotte World Adventure is fun for everyone, whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, and they’ve even got indoor rides so you can have a blast no matter what the weather’s like.

In conclusion, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple stands out as one of the top attractions in Busan and is worth your time! So, if you’re planning a trip to Busan, include a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, where you’ll be greeted by the soothing wind, crashing waves, and breathtaking views. We hope this article has helped you plan your visit!

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