Seokbulsa Temple, Busan - a building with a lot of potted plants in front of it
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Seokbulsa Temple Busan

4.5
·449 reviews·, South Korea

A hidden gem temple carved into sandstone cliffs on Geumjeongsan Mountain, offering unique Buddha reliefs and breathtaking Busan views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Spectacular sunset views

CrowdMedium
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Seokbulsa Temple, Busan - a building with a lot of potted plants in front of it

Seokbulsa Temple Busan

Best Time

Late afternoon

Spectacular sunset views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hidden gem temple carved into sandstone cliffs on Geumjeongsan Mountain, offering unique Buddha reliefs and breathtaking Busan views.

4.5
(449 reviews)

"Highly recommend, probably the most unique Buddhist temple we saw and we visited quite a few in Asia."

Vertical photo
TIP

Taxi to the Trailhead

Take a taxi to the temple's parking area to shorten the hike. :taxi:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Be prepared for a significant climb; sturdy footwear is essential for the hike. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cliffside Buddha Carvings

Cliffside Buddha Carvings

Main temple area

Intricate Buddha reliefs carved directly into sandstone cliffs, creating a unique and awe-inspiring sight.

Geumjeongsan Mountain Views

Geumjeongsan Mountain Views

Temple grounds

Panoramic vistas of Busan city and the surrounding coastline, especially stunning during sunset.

TikTokInstagram
Secluded Serenity

Secluded Serenity

Temple grounds

A peaceful escape from the city bustle, offering a quiet and contemplative atmosphere for visitors.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hike

Seokbulsa Temple is nestled on Geumjeongsan Mountain, requiring a hike to reach. Be prepared for a climb, often around 1.4km, though some find it easy. Consider taking a taxi part of the way up to shorten the ascent. InstagramReddit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While Seokbulsa is less crowded than other Busan attractions, visiting during off-peak hours can enhance the magical, serene atmosphere. Some visitors found the place empty, making it even more special. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Spectacular sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter, more serene experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

부산 야경을 즐길 수 있는 공간🇰🇷 (아이폰 무보정 영상) 📍황령산 전망대 🔍부산 남구 대연동 243-33 🗓️연중무휴 #부산 #부산여행 #황령산 #busan #busantravel #busantrip
@hyoshinkwak
515.6K likes • 2.9M views

Taxi to the Trailhead

Take a taxi to the temple's parking area to shorten the hike. Reddit :taxi:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Be prepared for a significant climb; sturdy footwear is essential for the hike. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

황령산 전망대 꿀팁 정리✨ (Top Tips of Hwangnyeongsan Mountain Observatory) 1. ‘황령산 전망쉼터 주차장’을 검색하고 갈것. 주소 : 부산 부산진구 전포동 산50-14 2. 8월 기준, 노을이랑 야경을 함께 보려면 황령산 전망쉼터 주차장에 19시까지 방문하는 것을 추천! 3. 해당 영상은 진짜임! 그리고 아이폰 14 pro로 담은 무보정 영상! 4. 자동차(택시, 자차)로 이동할 경우, 황령산 전망쉼터 주차장에 도착해서 주차하고 15분 정도 등산하면 됨! 5. 대중교통으로 이동할 생각을 하지 마세요.. 1시간 동안 계속 오르막 길이라서 매우 힘듭니다. 6. 황령산 전망대 위치는 주차장에서 안내표지판을 따라서 15분 정도 등산하면 블루뱅 황령산점(카페)로 내려가는 입구...
@hyoshinkwak
41.4K likes • 230.2K views
L’une de nos plus belle expérience du voyage ! Un temple ⛩️ incroyable creusé dans la roche, qui dépasse tout ce qu’on pouvait imaginer. Perché dans les hauteurs paisibles du mont Geumjeongsan, Seokbulsa est un joyau secret de Busan que peu de voyageurs découvrent. Contrairement aux temples colorés habituels, ici, les statues de Bouddha et les gardiens célestes sont taillés à même la falaise, dans...
ma_vie_de_maman_voyageuse
326 likes • 0 views

Enjoy the Views

The panoramic views from the temple are breathtaking, especially at sunset. TikTok :camerawithflash:

Feed the Crows

Friendly crows inhabit the area; some visitors enjoy feeding them. Reddit :bird:

금정산에서 백양산으로 이어지는 능선의 절경은 무척이나 아름답다. 그리고 그 가운데 100미터가 넘는 암벽에 둘러싸여있는 고즈넉한 사찰, 석불사가 있다. BTS 정국이 방문해 입소문이 나서 더 유명해졌다 그리고 영국의 BBC방송의 여행가이드북인 "론리 플래닛"에 한국의 부산파트에 소개된 장소이기도 하다. 거대한 암벽에 새긴 16명의 나한과 29좌 불상조각이 인상적이다 규모가 큰 절은 아니지만 뒤에 병풍처럼 싸인 암벽과 시선을 압도하는 구조 덕에 절의 크기와는 별개로 웅장한 느낌이 든다. #부산#부산시#죽기전에가봐야할곳 #석불사 #병풍암 #신중년노는법 #요즘취미 #걷기여행 #2025부산미디어멤버스 #부산여행
youngdu2030
199 likes • 894 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Taxi to the Trailhead

Take a taxi to the temple's parking area to shorten the hike. Reddit :taxi:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Be prepared for a significant climb; sturdy footwear is essential for the hike. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Enjoy the Views

The panoramic views from the temple are breathtaking, especially at sunset. TikTok :camerawithflash:

Feed the Crows

Friendly crows inhabit the area; some visitors enjoy feeding them. Reddit :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(449 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are deeply impressed by Seokbulsa Temple's unique rock-carved Buddha reliefs, calling it a must-visit and one of the most unique Buddhist temples in Asia. The stunning mountain views, especially at sunset, and the serene, often empty atmosphere contribute to its magical appeal. While the hike can be challenging, most agree the beauty and tranquility are well worth the effort.

"This temple is worth visiting. I have been deeply impressed by the structure of the Buddha on the stones. I was very relaxed to pay a visit to this temple. I wish I could have another chance to come to this temple and silently read the mantra of the Buhhda of Medicine on the ground."

minh luu

"One of the highlands of our visit to Busan and it was on my list of places to visit. Highly recommend, probably the most unique Buddhist temple we saw and we visited quite a few in Asia."

G B

"Be ready for long climb for 1.4km. Nice and quiet place"

Misil Jeong

What People Like

Unique rock carvings
Stunning mountain views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Challenging hike

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Seokbulsa Temple by taxi, which can take you directly to the parking area near the temple, significantly shortening the hike. Reddit Alternatively, you can use public transport and then hike up. Some visitors recommend taking the Geumsang cable car and then hiking through a pretty forest. Reddit The hike itself is about 1.4km and can be challenging for some. Reddit

The hike to Seokbulsa Temple is described as a climb, approximately 1.4km long. While some find it easy, others consider it a significant effort. Reddit Wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, you can drive or take a taxi to the parking area near Seokbulsa Temple. This is a popular option to reduce the hiking distance. TikTokReddit

For a scenic approach, consider taking the Geumsang cable car and then enjoying a forest hike towards the temple. Reddit Taxis are also a convenient option to get closer to the temple. Reddit

While direct public transport to the temple's entrance is limited, you can use buses to get to a point where you can then hike up. Reddit Many visitors opt for taxis to get closer to the trailhead. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Seokbulsa Temple is completely free of charge to visit. TikTok

The temple is generally accessible throughout the day, but specific hours are not widely published. It's best to visit during daylight hours. TikTok

No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee for Seokbulsa Temple. TikTok

Yes, Seokbulsa Temple is an excellent destination for a day trip from Busan, offering a unique cultural and natural experience. TikTok

While the temple itself is a daytime attraction, the observatory near Hwangnyeongsan Mountain is open until 11 PM for night views. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The cliffside Buddha carvings are the primary photographic subjects. The panoramic views of Busan from the temple grounds also offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset. TikTokInstagram

Yes, many visitors capture beautiful photos with their smartphones. One creator even mentioned using an iPhone 14 Pro for their 무보정 (unadjusted) videos. TikTok

Late afternoon, leading into sunset, is highly recommended for photography due to the dramatic lighting and city views. TikTok+1

No specific restrictions on photography have been mentioned, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

You can expect to photograph unique rock-carved Buddha statues, impressive cliff formations, and expansive cityscapes of Busan. Instagram+1

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Seokbulsa Temple is unique because its Buddha statues and guardian figures are carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, rather than being freestanding structures. Instagram+1

On the way down from the temple, you can find places to buy cold drinks and use restrooms. There's also a gym complex located right under the temple. Reddit

While it's a popular spot, some visitors have reported finding the place empty, which adds to its magical atmosphere. Reddit Visiting during off-peak hours can help avoid crowds. TikTok

Seokbulsa Temple was built in the 1930s by a monk named Cho Hyeon and is known for its impressive rock-carved sculptures. Instagram

There are facilities to buy cold drinks and use restrooms on the path down from the temple. Reddit For more dining options, you would likely need to return to the city center. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seokbulsa Temple offers a unique visual experience that can captivate children with its unusual rock carvings. However, the hike up the mountain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Consider taking a taxi as close as possible to the temple to minimize the strenuous part of the climb. Reddit+1 The open spaces and the chance to see friendly crows might also be engaging for kids. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

Seokbulsa Temple is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking for a blend of culture, nature, and a good hike. The relative quietness of the temple, especially during off-peak hours, allows for a deeply personal and contemplative experience. Reddit The hike itself provides a sense of accomplishment, and the stunning views from the mountain offer rewarding panoramas. TikTok Solo travelers can easily navigate using taxis or a combination of public transport and walking. Reddit The opportunity to feed the crows adds a unique, interactive element to the visit. Reddit

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

Photographers will find Seokbulsa Temple and its surroundings incredibly rewarding. The rock-carved Buddha reliefs offer unique artistic subjects, while the panoramic views from Geumjeongsan Mountain are spectacular, especially during the golden hour and sunset. TikTok+1 The Hwangnyeongsan Observatory nearby is also a prime spot for capturing cityscapes. TikTok+1 Visiting during the late afternoon allows for capturing both the temple's details and the vibrant Busan skyline as it lights up. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Seokbulsa's Rock Carvings

Seokbulsa Temple is renowned for its extraordinary Buddha reliefs meticulously carved directly into the natural sandstone cliffs. Unlike traditional temples with freestanding statues, Seokbulsa's artistry is integrated with the mountain itself. These carvings, depicting Buddhas and guardian figures, create a powerful and unique spiritual atmosphere. Visitors are consistently impressed by the detail and scale of these rock-cut sculptures, finding them deeply moving and visually striking. Instagram+1

The temple's construction dates back to the 1930s, initiated by a monk named Cho Hyeon. The integration of art and nature here is a testament to dedication and vision. The sheer effort involved in creating such detailed artwork on a mountainside is a significant part of its allure. Many consider these carvings to be among the most unique Buddhist art they've encountered in Asia. InstagramReddit

When you visit, take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship. The way the light hits the carvings throughout the day can change their appearance, adding another layer to the experience. It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and admiration for both the spiritual message and the artistic execution. Reddit

Navigating the Hike to Seokbulsa Temple

Reaching Seokbulsa Temple involves a hike up Geumjeongsan Mountain. The ascent is often described as being around 1.4 kilometers, and while some find it manageable, others note it as a considerable climb. Reddit To make the journey more accessible, many visitors opt to take a taxi or car directly to the temple's parking area. This significantly reduces the amount of walking required, allowing more time to enjoy the temple itself. TikTokReddit

For those who enjoy a more immersive experience, combining public transport with a hike is also an option. Some suggest using the Geumsang cable car and then following a forest trail. Reddit Regardless of your chosen method, wearing comfortable hiking shoes is crucial. The terrain can be uneven, and proper footwear will make the ascent and descent much more pleasant. Reddit

Along the path down from the temple, you'll find small conveniences like places to purchase cold drinks and use restrooms. Reddit This is a thoughtful addition for hikers. Planning your transport and being prepared for the climb are key to a rewarding visit to Seokbulsa Temple.

The Allure of Hwangnyeongsan Mountain Observatory

While Seokbulsa Temple is the main draw for many, its proximity to the Hwangnyeongsan Bongsudae Observatory offers an additional spectacular experience, particularly for sunset views. TikTok This observatory is celebrated as one of the top sunset spots in all of Korea, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Busan. TikTok It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking stunning vistas. TikTok

The observatory is accessible by car or taxi, and it's recommended to visit around sunset to witness the city lights begin to twinkle. TikTok Some tips suggest visiting the observatory's parking lot and then walking down to Seokbulsa Temple, making it a convenient combination for a day's exploration. TikTok The journey to the observatory itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the surrounding natural beauty. TikTok

Combining a visit to Seokbulsa Temple with the Hwangnyeongsan Observatory allows for a full day of exploration, from unique spiritual art to unparalleled cityscapes. The observatory's accessibility and the incredible views make it a must-visit complement to the temple. TikTok

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