Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple It was founded in 1376 (the 2nd year of King U’s reign) during the Goryeo Dynasty by Naong Hyegeun, the royal envoy of King Gongmin. When Hyegeun was practicing asceticism at Bunhwangsa Temple in Gyeongju, there was a major drought in the country, and the people were in a bad mood. One day, the Dragon King appeared in a dream, built a temple at the end of Bongraesan Mountain, and prayed. There would be no worries due to drought or wind, and the country would be peaceful. He said he would do it. Accordingly, a temple was built here and the mountain was named Bongraesan Mountain, and the temple was named Bomunsa Temple. It was later destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasions of Korea, and was rebuilt by Ungang of Tongdosa Temple in the early 1930s. In 1974, Jeongam took office and prayed for the restoration of the temple as Avalokitesvara. He said he saw Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva dressed in white ascending to heaven on a dragon in a dream, so the name of the temple was changed to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Existing buildings include Daeungjeon, Gulbeopdang, Yongwangdang (Yonggungdan), Beomjonggak, and Yosachae. The main hall was rebuilt by abbot Jeongam in the 1970s. The cave hall next to Daeungjeon is called Mireukjeon and has been enshrining a seated stone Buddha of Maitreya since its founding. It is called Deuknambul because it is said that if a person without descendants prays, he or she will obtain descendants. In front of the main hall, there is a three-story stone pagoda with four lions. Originally, there was a 3m high rock (Mireuk Rock) on this site, but as the temple became ruins during the Japanese invasions of Korea and was destroyed during the Korean War during the construction of a coastal guard network, Jeongam collected rubble and repaired the damaged rock wall in 1990 to build this stone pagoda. Seven Buddhist relics brought from Sri Lanka were enshrined. In addition, the single stone statues include the Seawater Avalokitesvara Buddha, which is about 10 meters high and the largest stone statue in Korea, and the Yaksha Tathagata Buddha, also known as the East Sea Gatbawi Buddha. At the entrance to the temple, there is a traffic safety prayer tower and 108 stairs, and there is a statue of Bodhidharma at the beginning of the stairs. There is a legend that if you touch his nose and stomach, you will receive a son.
ms yukms yuk
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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated on the coast of the north-eastern portion of Busan. The temple claims it was first built in 1376, but this has been proven to be untrue. Haedong Yonggung temple, the southern most temple near the east sea was founded by the great monk Naong, who was the consultant of King Gongmin. While he was practicing asceticism at Bunhwang temple in Gyeongju, the nation was hard hit by a draught that made the crops burn to death and people suffer from famine, so people were disturbed badly resenting the god for not giving them rain. One day, a sea god appeared in Naong' dream and said that if they built a temple at the edge of Bongrae mountain and prayed there, all these hardship would go away leaving people back in happiness. After that dream, Naong visited the area where the Haedong Yonggung temple is located now, and saw that there was a mountain in the front and the sea at the back, which means if they say prayers in the morning they get answered in the evening. He built a temple later called Bomun temple by him and named the mountain Bongrae. The word “Bongrae” means something mysterious and pure to which hermits with great understanding descended. The word “Bomun” means the absolute and limitless power of the Great Goddess Buddha of mercy, called Gwanseumbosal in Korean. Monk Ungang of Tongdo Temple rebuilt the temple in the early 1930's. In 1970, the main sanctuary of the temple was reconstructed with careful attention to the colours traditionally used in such structures. The temple complex is a large one and one of few in Korea to be set on the seaside. As such, combined with its proximity to Haeundae Beach and the east side of Busan, the temple is popular with sightseers, particularly during Buddha's Birthday celebrations when the complex is decorated with paper lanterns. It honors Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (해수관음 대불), the Sea Goddess Buddha of Mercy, who is an aspect of Guanyin. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of the three sacred places related to the Goddess of Buddha of South Korea.
Nguyễn Ngọc HuyNguyễn Ngọc Huy
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No entry fee. Very busy during holidays! Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a famous Buddhist temple located on the northeastern coast of Busan, South Korea. It is unique because it is one of the few temples in Korea situated by the sea, offering stunning ocean views. The temple was originally built in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty but was destroyed and later reconstructed in the 1930s. Here are some things to know before going: The temple is open year-round and is free to visit, although donations are welcome. It's especially known for its scenic beauty, with its coastal location providing a peaceful atmosphere. The sunrise over the ocean is particularly popular, and many visitors come early in the morning to experience it. You’ll need to walk down several steps to reach the temple from the entrance. While the walk is beautiful, it can be a bit challenging for those with mobility issues. The temple grounds include various statues and shrines, including a large golden Buddha statue, stone pagodas, and small altars. There’s also a unique three-story pagoda with four lions, representing joy, anger, sadness, and happiness. The area around the temple can get crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and during special Buddhist events like Buddha's Birthday in May. There are often local vendors and food stalls near the entrance, so you can grab a snack or souvenir during your visit. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there’s a fair amount of walking and stairs involved. While the temple itself can be explored in an hour or so, the surrounding area offers beautiful views, and you may want to take some extra time to enjoy the scenery. The temple is accessible by public transportation, but it’s a bit outside central Busan, so plan for extra travel time. Many people take a bus or taxi from nearby stations.
RR
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There is no cost for entry. A Busan must see- it is a beautiful temple with incredible views! We visited right after Buddha’s birthday so there were some remnants of paper lanterns. You also walk through a small bamboo forest. We went early June and the weather was just perfect. There’s a bit of a trek uphill to get to the temple from where the transit stop is and there are several routes throughout the temple itself that have small hills or stairs. As you approach the temple there are small vendor stalls selling souvenirs and snacks. There is a statue there that supposedly if you rub its tummy it is supposed to bless you with a son- I avoided because I already have one and don’t plan on anymore! 🤣 It must be very popular because the tummy of the statue was visibly worn. A car wheel statue in front of the entrance is often prayed to in order to avoid car accidents. I did do that because I drive! There are also fun zodiac animal statues in front of the temple- it was fun to find all of ours and take pictures. There is a large golden Buddha statue. And near that statue are shrines that you can enter to pray.
Charlene SoCharlene So
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As you step through the entrance of this serene temple, the first thing that captures your attention is a striking row of twelve statues, lined up in perfect order. They’re a powerful sight, evoking a sense of awe and reverence that makes you pause for a moment. But don’t get too comfortable, because ahead lies a steep climb—several flights of stairs wind their way up the hillside. If you’re planning to bring elderly visitors, it’s something to keep in mind, as the climb can be a bit strenuous for those with limited mobility. The temple is perched by the sea, and the views are absolutely worth the effort. If you're up for the challenge, make sure to reach the top. From there, the sweeping vistas of the coastline are simply breathtaking, offering some of the best photo opportunities you'll find in the area. Locals swear by the temple's spiritual powers, especially for those seeking blessings for children or education. It’s said to be particularly effective for those who come with these specific wishes in mind, making it a must-visit for anyone hoping for a little extra good fortune.
Y HY H
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A stunning temple situated on the coast. The scenery surroundings are as amazing as it is peacful. This temple is also unique of its kind and is without a doubt worth to visit. Some dining and beverage options are present, same goes for souvenirs. You can also watch munks doing their prayers and there are several great spots to view the temple from different angles. I do recommend to visit as early as possible or late(from 4:30 pm). This is to avoid the biggest crowds and potentially tours being conducted. Some of the pathways are very narrow and can become very crowded during mid-day. Getting there is easy. You can take bus 100 or 181 from haeundae station. Depending on traffic, it takes roughly 30-45 min. The bus will also announce the name of the temple before the bus stop. It is the only stop specifically called in English, making it difficult not to know when to get off 😅😁😉 I personally had a great experience here and can highly recommend to visit.
Soul travel storiesSoul travel stories
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Nearby Attractions Of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan
National Fisheries Science Museum
Skyline Luge Busan
BRICK CAMPUS BUSAN
해수관음대불

National Fisheries Science Museum
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Skyline Luge Busan
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BRICK CAMPUS BUSAN
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해수관음대불
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Nearby Restaurants Of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan
Yonggung Seafood Jjajang
Cafe 220 Volt, OSIRIA
송정해녀집
바다향 꼬막한상
Deokmi
바보낙지
고슬고슬 가마솥밥
비원식탁
Jeju Hangsaeng
지수농원

Yonggung Seafood Jjajang
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(714)Click for details

Cafe 220 Volt, OSIRIA
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(430)Click for details

송정해녀집
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바다향 꼬막한상
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Basic Info
Address
86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea
Map
Phone
+82 51-722-7744
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Website
yongkungsa.or.kr
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Reviews
Overview
4.4
(9.3K reviews)
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Description
Haedong Yonggung Temple is a Buddhist temple in Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea. The temple claims it was first built in 1376, but this has been proven to be untrue. The temple complex is a large one and one of few in Korea to be set on the seaside.
attractions: National Fisheries Science Museum, Skyline Luge Busan, BRICK CAMPUS BUSAN, 해수관음대불, restaurants: Yonggung Seafood Jjajang, Cafe 220 Volt, OSIRIA, 송정해녀집, 바다향 꼬막한상, Deokmi, 바보낙지, 고슬고슬 가마솥밥, 비원식탁, Jeju Hangsaeng, 지수농원

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