Bongwonsa Temple (봉원사) is worth considering if you want a Seoul itinerary that balances local atmosphere with practical visitor information.
Why this experience is worth your time
Located on the outskirts of Ansan Mountain in Bongwon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Bongwonsa Temple, as the center of Korean Buddhism Taego, is a thousand-year-old temple with a long history and tradition. In 889 (3rd year of Shilla Queen Jinseong’s reign), Monk Doseon founded it at the ground of Yeonhui Palace (now Yonsei Univ.) and named it Banyasa temple. It was destroyed during the Imjin War in 1592, and later in 1748 (the 24th year of Joseon King Yeongjo’s reign), it was rebuilt and renamed “Bongwonsa” by two Buddhist monks, Chanjeup and Jeungam. “Yeongsanjae,” one of the Buddhist rituals and also a National Intangible Cultural Property, takes place at Bongwonsa on June 6 every year wishing for world peace and the reunification of North and South Korea. It was designated as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. During Yeongsanjae, visitors can enjoy the Buddhist arts such as Beompae (Buddhist temple music for rituals) and dancing. Also, during summertime, Seoul Lotus Flower Culture Festival takes place, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful lotus flowers which are a symbol of Buddhism. Useful details: Homepage: bongwonsa.or.kr Address: 120, Bongwonsa-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul Map: 126.9469959488, 37.5723974448 heritage1: 0 infocenter: • 1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese) • For more info: +82-2-392-3007 parking: Available Available Facilities: Store, Dawon Restrooms: Available Interpretation Services Offered: Not Available
What to know before you go
Save the address before leaving: 120, Bongwonsa-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. Check current opening hours, holiday notices, and weather or crowd conditions before you go.
A simple way to plan your visit
Plan Bongwonsa Temple (봉원사) with one or two nearby stops, and leave enough time for walking, photos, and small changes in weather or crowd levels.
Watch before you go
Local tip
Arrive earlier in the day if you want a quieter visit and better flexibility for nearby cafes, shops, or transit.
