Haedong Yonggungsa Temple – Busan, South Korea
In Busan, South Korea, there is a peaceful temple by the sea. They call it the Haedong Yonggunsa Temple and it’s not too far outside the city.
Each morning the temple gets a cooling mist from the cold ocean water, which hovers in the air from the gentle waves that rush over the rocks. The ocean starts to wake up, like a deep breath, in and out each time. The sun begins to warm the rocks below. It is the embodiment of harmony. Tranquil and connected.
Location:
To visit this temple, you need to take the #139 bus from the famous Haeundae Beach, getting off at the National Fisheries Research & Development Institute. It’s a short 10 minute walk afterwards towards the beach. Since the entrance is free, it makes for a great stop on a tour around Busan. You can visit the shops right outside the temple afterwards.
Visiting the temple is like going back into the past. The intricate patterns and detailed sculptures are all very interesting. When trying to get to the main temple and crossing the bridge, you’ll want to throw a coin into the small bowl below for good luck. I missed just by a foot, but hopefully you’ll have a better throw.
As for anywhere in Korea, it’s best recommended to visit in Autumn or early summer before the heat rolls in. We were here just in May when the sun was shining and the temperature was perfect. If you do visit later in September, you’ll also be able to jump in the water at Haeundae Beach on the main drag of Busan.
