A Temple Journey in Spring
This year, I had the chance to travel to Korea in April, just in time to experience the magic of spring and revisit many of the temples I hold dear. Blooming flowers, mild weather, and a strong spiritual energy created an unforgettable atmosphere.
Samgwangsa Temple: A Modern Gem in Busan
One of the highlights of this trip was Samgwangsa Temple, built in the 1980s, in Busan. Although it's a relatively modern temple compared to Korea’s centuries-old historical sites, it left a deep impression on me. Its vast scale and striking hillside location make it a truly awe-inspiring place to visit.
During the celebrations, the temple was adorned with thousands of lanterns—each carrying a wish or a prayer—casting a warm and spiritual glow over the entire complex. Walking beneath the lantern-covered paths felt like stepping into another world, one filled with peace, hope, and quiet joy. (I would have loved to witness the visual feast at night.)
Personal Reflections
Every time I visit a temple in Korea, especially during a special occasion like this, I feel a deeper connection to the culture and its quiet sense of harmony. There’s something incredibly grounding about watching people pause from their busy lives to reflect, pray, or simply enjoy the beauty around them.
The view from the temple is also quite impressive—you can capture stunning photos facing the city below.
We stepped inside a few of the buildings, prayed, and paid our respects as best as we knew how. The most moving moment was visiting the building dedicated to the relatives of those affiliated with the temple. We prayed on the upper floor and rested there for a while. Spending time in Buddhist temples in Korea is a truly meaningful and valuable experience.
Sitting quietly on one of the stone steps, listening to the soft chanting echoing through the air, brought a deep sense of peace. (I can only imagine how magical it must look when illuminated at night.)
Why Visiting Temples During Buddha’s Birthday Is Special
What makes this time of year so special is not just the visual beauty, but the collective energy of people coming together in celebration. Locals and visitors alike light lanterns, bow in reverence, and enjoy the serene yet festive atmosphere. Many temples also offer free food, tea ceremonies, and cultural performances during this period.
If You’re Planning to Go
Here are a few quick tips:
- When to visit: Buddha’s Birthday usually falls in late April or early May, depending on the lunar calendar. Be sure to check the exact date in advance.
- Top places to visit: Samgwangsa (Busan), Jogyesa (Seoul), Beomeosa (Busan), Bulguksa (Gyeongju).
- What to wear: Comfortable shoes and modest clothing. Some temples may require that shoulders and knees be covered.
- How to get there:
- Samgwangsa Temple (Busan): Take Busan Metro Line 1 to Seomyeon Station, then a short taxi ride or local bus (No. 15) up the hill.
- 📍 77 Choeupcheon-ro 43beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan (부산광역시 부산진구 초읍천로43번길 77)
PS: Since the temple is located on a vast site, it features various structures such as a long walking trail, the Main Buddha Hall, Daebo Tower (one of the largest stone pagodas in Asia), Jigwan-jeon Hall (which houses 10,000 Buddha statues), and a Bell Pavilion.
Visitors can also take part in cultural activities designed especially for foreigners, including learning about temple etiquette, tea ceremonies, 108 prostrations, meditation, Buddhist rituals, and temple cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a spiritual traveler, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, visiting Korea during Buddha’s Birthday offers a truly unique experience. The harmony of tradition, nature, and celebration is something you’ll carry with you long after you leave.
“Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.” Buddha
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