Explore Korean Heritage Sites: Magoksa Temple

Welcome to Magoksa

Magoksa Temple (마곡사), a Buddhist temple located in the mountains of Gongju-si, a day trip away from Seoul, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. 

Magoksa offers a peaceful escape from the city’s energy and a glimpse into Korea’s Buddhist traditions.

While Buddhism first came to Korea around 300 AD, Magoksa was built in 640 CE during the Silla Dynasty and is now one of Korea’s most historic temples. Magoksa survived both the Imjin War and the Korean War.

Guided Tour

Upon arrival, our first activity of the day was a Guided Tour.

We walked around the temple grounds, admiring the sacred halls, pagodas, and statues. 

My favorite spot was Yeongsanjeon, or the “Thousand Buddha Hall.” The detail in each Buddha statue especially struck me. 

Room Tour

Following the tour, we were given our rooms for the night. Through the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, we were able to participate in a temple stay at no cost. However, temple stays are open to anyone visiting Korea; all you have to do is sign up online!

Dinner Time

A part of the temple stay experience is that you get to eat traditional temple food as well. So we walked to the dining hall and all gathered with the monks to enjoy an entirely plant-based meal. The meal consisted of rice, tofu, kimchi, acorn jelly, mushrooms, bean sprouts, and other delicious foods.  

Evening Bell Ceremony 

At dusk, we took part in the Dharma Bell Experience, where we helped strike the temple’s massive bronze bell.

With no visitors left at the temple, the deep and resonant sound echoed across the valley. 

The Next Day

108 Prostrations

We began the day in a way I had never done before. At 5 am, we completed 108 Prayers; each bow represented a different value. It was a moment of intention and self-reflection. 

Tea Time with a Monk

After the ceremony, we attended tea time with a monk. This was the highlight of the whole weekend for me. 

During the experience, the monk shared some advice:

“Live this present moment with happiness. If you live fully in the present, your past will be filled with happy memories without regret, and your future will blossom with even greater joy.”

Reflection

Upon reflection, this weekend was an incredible experience. I highly recommend anyone visiting Korea to take part in a Temple Stay. It was not only an excellent opportunity to learn more about Buddhism, but also a way to reconnect with yourself outside of the city.