5 Hidden Sanctuary Temples in the Heart of Seoul

Discover 5 serene Buddhist temples hidden amidst Seoul’s skyscrapers. From the historic grandeur of Bongeunsa to the romantic backstory of Gilsangsa, find your perfect peaceful escape in the city.

Hi there! I’m Min, your local guide living in Korea. If you’ve spent even a few hours navigating the neon lights and bustling crowds of Seoul, you know how exciting—yet exhausting—the city can be. Sometimes, your soul just needs a “mute” button, right?

As someone who loves the deep, earthy scent of incense and the intricate patterns of Korean temple food (thanks to my background in professional Korean cooking and baking!), I want to share my favorite “secret” spots. You don’t need to hike deep into the mountains to find peace. These five temples are nestled right inside the city, waiting to offer you a moment of zen.

1. Bongeunsa: An Ancient Oasis Amidst Skyscraper Shadows

Where Tradition Meets the Future in Gangnam

If you find yourself near the futuristic COEX Mall or Teheran-ro (Korea’s Silicon Valley), you’re just steps away from Bongeunsa. Founded during the Silla Dynasty, this temple became the center of Zen Buddhism during the Joseon Dynasty. Today, it’s a surreal landscape where ancient eaves frame views of glass skyscrapers.

• The “Wow” Factor: The Mireuk-daebul (Maitreya Buddha). Standing at 23 meters, it’s one of the tallest stone statues in Korea. Looking up at it while the city hums in the distance is a spiritual experience.
• Cultural Treasure: Don’t miss the Bronze Censer with Silver-Inlaid Floral Design (Treasure No. 321), a masterpiece of Goryeo Dynasty craftsmanship.
• Min’s Tip: Visit during the Lotus Lantern Festival around Buddha’s Birthday. The entire grounds glow with thousands of colorful lanterns—it’s a photographer’s dream!

Address:531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Website:www.bongeunsa.org

2. Jogyesa: The Vibrant Heart of Korean Buddhism

A Colorful Hub in the Historic District

Located in Jongno, Jogyesa is the head temple of the Jogye Order. Unlike mountain temples, it’s built on flat ground in the city center, making it incredibly accessible. Whether you’re a believer or just a curious traveler, the doors are always open.

• Nature in the City: Look for the Baeksong (White Pine Tree), Natural Monument No. 9. Its pale, ghostly bark has stood guard here for hundreds of years.
• The Grand Hall: The Daeungjeon (Main Hall) is massive—comparable in size to the throne hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace!
• Vegetarian Delights: Just across the street, you’ll find shops selling Buddhist beads and restaurants serving authentic Temple Food. Since the ingredients are often grown by monks, the flavors are exceptionally clean and honest.
• Pop Culture Fun: During the Lantern Parade, keep an eye out for modern lanterns shaped like Ryan (Kakao Friends), Tayo the Little Bus, or Pengsoo! It shows how Korean Buddhism stays playful and connected to modern life.

Address:55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Website:www.jogyesa.kr

3. Gilsangsa: A Story of Love and “Non-Possession”

A Fairytale-like Retreat in Seongbuk-dong

Gilsangsa has one of the most touching backstories. It wasn’t always a temple; it was once a high-end restaurant called Daewongak. The owner, Kim Yeong-han, was so moved by the book Non-Possession by the famous Venerable Master Beopjeong that she donated the entire massive estate to him.

• A Unique Statue: You’ll see a Gwanseum-bosal (Bodhisattva of Compassion) statue that looks a bit different—it was sculpted by a Catholic artist, representing a beautiful harmony between religions.
• Tea & Books: Visit the Darani-Dawon Book Cafe. It used to be Beopjeong’s library. Sitting there with a cup of warm tea, listening to the birds and the wind through the trees, is pure healing.
• Atmosphere: It feels more like a cozy park or a secret garden than a formal temple. It’s perfect for a quiet date or a solo “me-time” afternoon.

Address:68 Seonjam-ro 5-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

Website:www.gilsangsa.or.kr

4. Botasa: The Secret Treasure Box in an Alleyway

Small Scale, Big History

Botasa might be small, but it punches way above its weight class in terms of history. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, it feels like a private sanctuary where you can truly hear your own thoughts.

• Hidden Giant: Behind the main hall, carved directly into the cliffside, is a 5-meter-tall Rock-carved Seated Bodhisattva. This Goryeo-era treasure is breathtakingly realistic.
• Golden Beauty: It also houses a Gilt-bronze Seated Bodhisattva (Treasure No. 1818). Its intricate details and perfect preservation offer a rare glimpse into the artistry of the Joseon Dynasty.

Address:60-46 Gaeunsa-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

5. Bongwonsa: The Resilience of Beauty

Where Lotus Flowers Bloom in History

Founded over a thousand years ago, Bongwonsa has survived fires and wars, standing today as the headquarters of the Taego Order. While its dancheong (traditional paint) might look faded, it carries an undeniable grace that only age can provide.

• Historical Echoes: You can find calligraphy here by Jeong Do-jeon, the key architect of the Joseon Dynasty.
• The Symbol of Purity: Bongwonsa is famous for its Lotus Flowers. In Buddhism, the lotus represents rising above the mud of the world to bloom in purity. Walking through the temple when the lotuses are in bloom is a gentle reminder to stay kind and clear-minded even in a busy world.

Address:120 Bongwonsa-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Website:www.bongwonsa.or.kr

🌸 Min’s Final Thought for Travelers

You don’t need to be a Buddhist to enjoy these spaces. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read, a spot to capture incredible photos, or a way to taste authentic Korean culture, these temples offer a unique “slow-life” experience in a “fast-life” city.

MIN

A certified Korean chef and baker. Min shares authentic tastes of Korea, from hidden local gems to traditional recipes and everyday lifestyle.