Bongeunsa

Just north of the COEX Mall and Convention Centre, the shrines and halls of this Buddhist temple are spread among a forested hillside and have a quieter, more secluded atmosphere than Insadong’s Jogyesa. Founded in AD 794, the buildings have been rebuilt many times over the centuries. Entry to the temple is through Jinyeomun (Gate of Truth), protected by four fierce guardians. On the right is a charity shop, Beautiful Store (open 10.30am-6pm Tuesday to Sunday). On the left is a small hut where an English-­speaking volunteer guide is usually available. Make an effort to visit on Thursday because from 2pm to 4pm, monks and volunteers offer a temple program in English that costs only W10,000 and includes lotus-lantern making, dado (tea ceremony), a temple tour and Seon (Zen) meditation. The main shrine, Daewungjeon, last renovated in 1982, has lattice doors and is decor­ated inside and out with Buddhist symbols and art that express Buddhist philosophy and ideals. A small 14th-century bell is hidden in one corner. On the right is the funeral hall, while behind are smaller shrine halls and a massive standing statue – the Maitreya (Future) Buddha. Nearby is the oldest hall, Panjeon, constructed in 1856, which houses over 3000 150-year-old woodblocks with Buddhist scripture and art carved into them. The building is only open from around 10am every day – check with the volunteer guide at the entrance.