Beopjusa Temple Stay 법주사, South Korea

Beopjusa is one of the Sansa Temples - mountain Buddhist temples included in the UNESCO World Heritage sights for South Korea. Beopjusa Temple is located in Boeun County of Chungcheongbuk-do Province. Beopjusa Temple was established in the 8th century and is famous for its faith in Maitreya (the future Buddha) practice of repentance. Beopjusa Temple remained in its original form during Goryeo and Joseon Dynasty up until the 16th Century. After being burned down during the Japanese Invasion of 1592~1598, the temple was quickly rebuilt to how it is today.

Beopjusa Temple was established on a wide flat area near the upper region of Dalcheon stream at the foot of Songnisan Mountain. The temple gradually expanded to be the size seen today. There are picturesque mountaintops surrounding the temple area and a beautiful lake with walking paths along it’s banks.

While Sanhojeon Hall is recognized as the main place of worship, there are a stone tub from where water was offered, a stone standing bodhisattva who is offering incense, Seongnyeonji from where clean water and lotus flowers were offered, and the twin-lion stone lantern. And, all of these stone works are remaining today and are registered as cultural assets.

As the only wooden pagoda in Korea, Palsangjeon and the two-story Main Hall was built, Beopjusa had two axes of Maitreya and Shakyamuni faith.

The temple stay program offered at Beopjusa Temple is unique experience. You will be hosted for the whole stay by a practicing monk and temple stay guide who will give you details of the history of the place, the Buddhist practice and the temple etiquette. The program includes participation in a morning prayer, morning meditation hike and meditation from a top of the Diamond Mountain, overlooking the beautiful sight of the Temple. Trying temple food is also quite unique experience.