Jikjisa Temple — Local services in North Gyeongsang

Upon arrival there was a concert event (We were expecting a more calm & quiet atmospnere.)

The second day walk up to the hermitage temple was lovely. Very beautiful scenery and foliage. However, we had a +65 year old in our group. We should have received warning about the steep hills and stairs.

Tea time and questions with the mank was cool at the beginning. But because there was an English speaking group and Korean speaking group at the same time the answers and conversations got confusing.

For a more authentic feeling the tea could be served in traditional ceramic cups instead of plastic ones.

The overall temple sight and surroundings are very beauritil. The colours during suns rise were amazing.

We tried to follow the schedule timetable as best we could; went to the Dining Hall at 5:55 for breakfast but got shouted at for not meeting at the office. Staff should be more accommodating in situations like these; tourists can get confused and not understand things at times.

It was also very difficult to understand the staff. Maybe practicing clear English accents or printed instructions for the different activities would be better.

Overall though, thank you from the sister...

I had no expectations coming into my temple stay at Jikjisa, but I was completely blown away. The temple itself is breathtaking, surrounded by serene nature that makes the whole experience even more special. The people were so kind and welcoming, the teachings were deeply moving, and the food—pure vegetarian—was some of the most delicious and nourishing I’ve ever had.

I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience this. A special thank you to all the staff and to Hun for your warmth and guidance throughout my stay.

My advice to anyone considering a temple stay here: come with an open heart, an open mind, and no expectations. You will leave with so much more than you imagined. The temple grounds are beautiful, and the sleeping quarters are clean, safe, and comfortable. It truly is a traditional cultural experience in every sense, from the food to the way of living.

I leave feeling inspired and plan to carry the teachings and learnings with me moving forward. I hope to return one day and see...

Best Temple in Gimchoen. If you have enough time in Gimcheon, you must visit Jikjisa(Jikji Temple). At the bus terminal, take a bus number 11 or 111 bound for Jikjisa, that will take you there. You need to pay the enterance fee, 2,500 for adults. The best way to explore this Temple is to participate in a Temple Stay program in Jikjisa. You can learn what Buddhist monks do in day and night time. You can pray with them in the morning and night praying and have a talk with monk in the program. Also, 108 bowing time will be very meaningful time. There are so many things to see and feel in here. I promise the temple stay program in Jikji will be amazing experience to you like...