Jingwansa Temple, Seoul - a building with a clock on the top of it
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Jingwansa Temple Seoul

4.5
·3k reviews·, South Korea

A serene Buddhist temple at the foot of Bukhansan, offering spiritual tranquility and stunning Seoul city views from its hanok village.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Jingwansa Temple, Seoul - a building with a clock on the top of it

Jingwansa Temple Seoul

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple at the foot of Bukhansan, offering spiritual tranquility and stunning Seoul city views from its hanok village.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"Discover the serenity of Jingwansa Temple, a hidden gem offering peace and breathtaking city vistas."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Combine with Hanok Village

Explore the adjacent Eunpyeong Hanok Village for traditional architecture and city views.

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple grounds and the hanok village. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jingwansa Temple Grounds

Jingwansa Temple Grounds

Temple complex

Wander through serene courtyards, admire traditional architecture, and find inner peace amidst the natural beauty.

Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Adjacent to the temple

Explore charming traditional Korean houses (hanoks) with stunning city views, offering a picturesque backdrop.

City Views from the Hill

City Views from the Hill

Hillside near the temple

Enjoy panoramic vistas of Seoul's sprawling cityscape, especially breathtaking during sunset.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To experience the serene atmosphere of Jingwansa Temple, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist hours. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more peaceful visit, allowing you to soak in the spiritual ambiance without the crowds. Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend surges.

Embrace the Local Vibe

Jingwansa Temple is nestled within the charming Eunpyeong Hanok Village, offering a blend of traditional Korean architecture and natural beauty. Many visitors combine their temple visit with exploring the hanok village, enjoying local eateries, and taking in the city views. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Golden hour city views
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#seoul #southkorea🇰🇷 #seoultravel #wheretogoinseoul #hidengem #travel #restaurantinseoul #seoulview #seoulviewpoint #seoulfoodguide
@vitalmarli
182.3K likes • 2.1M views

🎯 Combine with Hanok Village

Explore the adjacent Eunpyeong Hanok Village for traditional architecture and city views. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple grounds and the hanok village. :athletic_shoe:

Best hidden place in Seoul to admire the city skyline 🥹 Save the location: 📍 Yongyangbongjeojeong Park #seoul #southkorea #koreatravel #seoulguide #seoultravelguide #seoullife #seoulhiddenplace #kor...
@homes_in_korea
51.1K likes • 950.1K views
Discover the Serenity of Jingwansa Temple ⤵️ Le temple de Jingwansa, situé dans le village d’Eungpyeong à Séoul, est un site spirituel et historique important en Corée du Sud. Son nom signifie "Templ...
paris__seoul
0 likes • 3.9K views

📸 Capture the Views

The temple and surrounding village offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the temple out of respect for the religious site. :pray:

Jingwansa Temple, located to the west of Seoul, is one of the four major temples around Seoul The temple was dedicated to Preceptor Jingwan in 1010 BC by King Hyeonjong, the 8th king of the Goryeo dyn...
chrisbg
4.3K likes • 71.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Combine with Hanok Village

Explore the adjacent Eunpyeong Hanok Village for traditional architecture and city views. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple grounds and the hanok village. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

The temple and surrounding village offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the temple out of respect for the religious site. :pray:

🗺️ Use Local Maps

For hiking trails around Bukhansan, consider Naver Maps or Kakao Maps as they are more detailed. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Jingwansa Temple for its serene atmosphere and beautiful traditional architecture, often highlighting the stunning city views from the adjacent Eunpyeong Hanok Village. Many appreciate the peaceful escape it offers from the urban bustle and find it a great spot for photography. Some note that it can get crowded during peak times, and access to specific hiking trails might require local maps.

"I love this temple! A restful place away from downtown yet reachable within an hour.

It’s very unusual entrance to the temple ground and I’ve seen like this in the past. Lanterns with notes of wishes, so unique and beautiful.

What I like the most is to see the kimchi pots, watching monks turning the covers, somehow made me drifting into history of Korea. This place shall be really pretty in the fall.

Also very interesting to read a story about the discovery of a Taeguekgi in one of temples, thinking about the brave people in those challenging times. May peace shine upon and guard the world.

There’s a local cafe where you can try some Korean desserts and beverages, grandmas working there are super cute and friendly.

Combining this temple with the hanok area together, it’ll be brilliant fall foliage day."

チャン

"Jingwansa Temple is really beautiful and hidden in nature. It is one of the nicest temples I have seen in Korea. What made it even more special was a helicopter flying very close to the temple while I was there it gave a great feeling to the place. The temple area is quite varied with small shops and a café that had really good coffee."

Auriane D

"Went to Eunpyeong to check out a cafe and did a little trekking to Bukhansan National Park. Many local seen trekking up in groups nearing to noon when it is not so cold but not crowded. Quaint and clean area, very impressed on how they maintained it. Even the washroom near the temple is so clean, you need to change to slippers before you enter. If you are exploring Eunpyeong checking out the hanoks & cafe, do drop by the park & temple. Is about 30-60 mins from Seoul City Hall area depending on your transport options. As the Chinese saying goes, "enter the house you address people", "enter a temple you pray"."

Ag Lim

What People Like

Serene atmosphere
Beautiful architecture
Panoramic city views

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Hiking trail info

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jingwansa Temple is accessible by public transport. Take the Seoul Subway Line 3 to Gupabal Station and then transfer to bus 701 or 773 to reach the temple. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Jingwansa Temple is located at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, making it a great starting point for hiking. Reddit+1

Eunpyeong Hanok Village is adjacent to Jingwansa Temple, so you can easily walk between them after arriving at the temple. Instagram

Buses like 701 and 773 from Gupabal Station are commonly used to reach Jingwansa Temple. TikTok

Yes, taxis are available, but using public transport is often more cost-effective and straightforward for tourists. :taxi:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Jingwansa Temple generally does not have an entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore its grounds freely. Instagram

The temple grounds are typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check specific hours closer to your visit. TikTok

As there's usually no entrance fee, advance booking isn't necessary for the temple itself. However, if you plan to participate in any special programs, check their specific booking procedures. TikTok

Absolutely! Jingwansa Temple and the surrounding Eunpyeong Hanok Village make for a wonderful half-day or full-day trip from Seoul. TikTok

Jingwansa Temple sometimes offers programs like temple stays or cultural experiences. It's best to inquire directly or check their official website for current offerings. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The main temple buildings, the serene courtyards, and the panoramic city views from the hillside are excellent for photography. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas of the temple, but it's respectful to refrain from taking photos inside sacred halls or during ceremonies. :camerawithflash:

Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for both the temple and the city skyline. TikTok+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and national parks. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:

Visitors often capture the traditional hanok architecture, street scenes, and the blend of old and new Seoul. Instagram+1

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the city views. Instagram+1

Jingwansa Temple has offered temple stay programs in the past, providing an immersive cultural experience. Inquire directly for current availability. Instagram

Yes, it's located at the base of Bukhansan Mountain and offers access to hiking trails. Reddit+1

Visitors describe it as serene, peaceful, and positive, offering a spiritual escape from the city. Instagram

Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the temple and the adjacent hanok village comfortably. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jingwansa Temple and the adjacent Eunpyeong Hanok Village offer a gentle introduction to Korean culture for families. The hanok village provides a visually engaging environment with its traditional houses, and the temple grounds offer space for children to explore respectfully. While the temple itself is a place of quiet contemplation, the surrounding area has cafes and scenic spots that can be enjoyed by all. Consider packing snacks and water, as options within the immediate temple area might be limited. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Jingwansa Temple is an excellent choice for budget travelers as there is typically no entrance fee. Instagram Combining your visit with exploring the free-to-access Eunpyeong Hanok Village makes for a cost-effective outing. You can save money by packing your own lunch or opting for affordable local eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods. Public transportation is also the most economical way to reach the temple from central Seoul. :moneywithwings:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Jingwansa Temple and Eunpyeong Hanok Village are a dream. The traditional architecture of the hanoks, the temple's serene courtyards, and the panoramic city views offer diverse photographic opportunities. The golden hour in the late afternoon provides stunning light for capturing both the temple and the Seoul skyline. TikTokInstagram+1 Remember to be mindful of respectful photography practices within the temple premises. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Adjacent to Jingwansa Temple, Eunpyeong Hanok Village offers a captivating glimpse into traditional Korean life. This meticulously preserved village features numerous hanoks (traditional Korean houses) with their distinctive tiled roofs and wooden structures. Wandering through its charming alleys feels like stepping back in time, with many of these hanoks now housing cafes, guesthouses, and small shops. The village is particularly known for its stunning views of Seoul, especially from its higher vantage points, making it a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a picturesque escape. Instagram+1

Many visitors find that combining a visit to Jingwansa Temple with an exploration of Eunpyeong Hanok Village provides a well-rounded cultural experience. The proximity allows for an easy transition between the spiritual tranquility of the temple and the aesthetic charm of the village. It's a place where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, capture beautiful photographs, and perhaps even enjoy a traditional Korean tea or snack at one of the local establishments. The unique blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty makes Eunpyeong Hanok Village a must-see attraction in Seoul. Instagram

Hiking Trails Around Jingwansa Temple

Jingwansa Temple's location at the foot of Bukhansan National Park makes it an ideal starting point for hikers. The park offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. One popular route mentioned by travelers is the hike from Jingwansa Temple towards Samobawi Rock and then descending to the Jokduribong entrance, which can take around five hours at a leisurely pace. Reddit This course is described as not overly difficult, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy nature and moderate physical activity. Reddit

While Google Maps might not always detail all the hiking paths, local mapping applications like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps are often more comprehensive for navigating the trails within Bukhansan. Reddit For those seeking specific trail information or guidance, visiting the Hiking Tourism Center in Seoul can provide valuable resources and advice. Reddit The dulle-gil (walking paths) around Bukhansan also offer numerous courses, though many are longer than an hour, providing options for different durations of exploration. Reddit

The Spiritual Essence of Jingwansa Temple

Jingwansa Temple, established in the 11th century during the Goryeo Dynasty, is one of Seoul's significant Buddhist temples. Its name, meaning "Temple of Pure Light," hints at its serene and spiritual atmosphere. The temple is dedicated to Preceptor Jingwan and has a rich history, having been rebuilt and renovated over centuries. Visitors often remark on the positive vibes and peaceful experience they encounter here, finding it a welcome respite from the bustling city. Instagram+2

The temple grounds themselves are beautifully maintained, featuring traditional Korean Buddhist architecture, tranquil courtyards, and lush surroundings. It's a place where one can find a moment of quiet contemplation and connect with the spiritual heritage of Korea. The opportunity to witness the temple's architecture and soak in its peaceful ambiance is a primary draw for many visitors seeking a cultural and spiritual immersion. Instagram+1

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