.png)
Are you seeking a transformative experience that blends tranquility, tradition, and personal reflection? Look no further than a temple stay at Golgulsa Temple, nestled in the serene hills of Gyeongju, South Korea. Known for its stunning location, rich history, and immersive Buddhist practices, Golgulsa Temple offers a unique retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this article, we'll guide you through what to expect during your temple stay, from participating in meditation sessions and martial arts to savoring traditional meals and exploring the temple’s spiritual surroundings. Whether you're very familiar with Korea or a first-time visitor looking for a peaceful escape, Golgulsa Temple promises an enriching experience that will leave you with plenty of memories and inspiration.
In this Article:
We have made a full YouTube video of our experience that can probably help you out and decide if this experience is made for you.
How to Book Your Korea Temple Stay
Visit the Korean Temple Stay website to choose your preferred program/length and fill out the online reservation form. After submitting, you’ll receive a confirmation email with further details.
How Much in Advance and Costs
Book 2-4 weeks ahead, especially during peak seasons. One overnight stay is at the time of writing this (Oct 2024) starting at 80,000 KRW ($59 USD), covering training, meals, and accommodation.
How Long Can You Stay?
Stays typically range from one day to a week, but longer options can be arranged directly with the temple for a more immersive experience. We met someone at the temple that stays for 1 full year.
Contact Information
Email: golgulsatemplestay@gmail.com
Phone: +82-54-775-1689
Address: South Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju-si, Munmudaewang-myeon, Girim-ro, 101-5
Arrival and First Impressions
Getting There
Golgulsa Temple is nestled in the scenic countryside of Gyeongju, South Korea. The temple is best reached by bus from Gyeongju. Get off at “Andong/Girimsa/Golgulsa (안동/기림사/골굴사)”. From the stop, there’s a T-junction—cross the road and continue straight along the street for about 10-15 minutes on foot until you reach the temple entrance.
However, when we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised to find a temple representative already waiting to pick us up, so we didn’t have to walk at all! Alternatively, you can take a taxi in Gyeongju, which takes around an hour for the whole journey.
Check-in Time: 2:00 PM
At check-in, we were warmly greeted by the temple staff and provided with a detailed map of the site, the full program schedule, and a set of temple uniforms (a comfortable jacket and pants). We were also given bedding for our futons to sleep on.
Accommodation and Facilities
Shared Rooms:
Accommodation at Golgulsa Temple is simple and communal. Men and women sleep in separate rooms, maintaining a respectful and traditional environment. Each shared room (2-4 people share one room) is equipped with futon-style bedding and an ensuite bathroom, and guests are responsible for setting up and tidying their sleeping areas.
The night can feel quite hard due to the firmness of the bedding, but since the morning meditation starts early, there’s not much time for deep sleep anyway. Lights out is at 9 PM, offering a peaceful and early end to the day.
Daily Schedule and Activities
Morning Routine
The day begins at 5:00 AM with a wake-up call, followed by a 5:30 AM early morning Buddhist service and sitting meditation. This is succeeded by a walking meditation to set a calm and focused tone for the day. Afterward, breakfast is served. The morning continues with Seonmudo training — a dynamic and meditative martial art that combines movement and breathwork. Before lunch, there’s a special tea time with a Buddhist monk, providing a chance for conversation and deeper insight into temple life.
Meals
Meals at the temple are simple, vegetarian, and prepared with mindfulness. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the communal dining hall. Each meal is an opportunity to practice gratitude, following the principles of barugongyang (formal temple meal). Guests are encouraged to take only what they can finish, and no food should be wasted.
Evening Routine
The day winds down with another meditation and Seonmudo session, followed by the 108 prostrations — a physically challenging but deeply meaningful practice. This was a particularly intense experience we won’t soon forget. Afterward, dinner is served, and the day concludes with lights out at 9:00 PM, allowing guests to rest and prepare for the early start the next morning.
Cultural and Spiritual Experiences
Ceremonies and Rituals
Golgulsa Temple offers an authentic glimpse into Buddhist traditions through its ceremonies and rituals. Guests can participate in morning and evening chanting sessions, as well as Buddhist services. These rituals foster a deep sense of community and connection to the temple’s spiritual practices.
Interactions with Monks
Interactions with the monks are a highlight of the temple stay experience. Guests have the opportunity to engage in conversations during tea time (with a translator present during our visit) and learn about the monks' daily lives, practices, and the philosophy of Buddhism. The monks are approachable and eager to share their insights, making these interactions both enriching and memorable.
Martial Art Class
Seonmudo training is a central part of the temple experience. This dynamic martial art combines meditation, movement, and breathwork, promoting both physical fitness and mental clarity. Classes are led by experienced instructors who guide participants through the techniques and philosophy of Seonmudo, helping them uniquely connect body and mind.
Other Activities Available
In addition to meditation and martial arts, Golgulsa Temple offers various other activities, such as archery and horseback riding. However, during our stay, we didn't feel the need to participate in these activities, as the core experiences provided plenty of fulfillment and reflection.
Personal Reflections
Impact on Personal Well-being
My time at Golgulsa Temple didn't profoundly impact my well-being as it was quite intense and short. However, it was a fun and interesting stay filled with insights and muscle pain from the rigorous activities!
Favorite Moments
One of my favorite moments was the 108 prostrations, as it was so different from anything I’ve ever done before. It was very exhausting but will stay in my memory for a long time. Another highlight was the Seonmudo training sessions, which were designed like fun workout classes, making the physical challenge enjoyable.
Pros
Authentic cultural and spiritual experience
Opportunity for personal reflection and growth
Engaging and physically rewarding activities like Seonmudo
Warm and welcoming community atmosphere
Cons
The sleeping arrangements may not be comfortable for everyone
The rigid schedule might feel too structured for some travelers
Suitable for Which Type of Traveler
This experience is suitable for travelers open to cultural immersion and willing to embrace a more structured routine. It’s perfect for those interested in spiritual practices, physical activities, and authentic experiences. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking luxury accommodations, flexibility in their itinerary, or if you're looking for deeper, advanced, or longer meditation sessions. If you're ready to engage in a unique and physically demanding experience, Golgulsa Temple is a fantastic choice.
Tips for Future Visitors
Be Open-Minded: Embrace the unique temple life experience and be prepared for a different lifestyle. Keeping an open mind will enhance your overall enjoyment and help you connect with the community.
Participate Fully: Engage in all the activities offered, from meditation to Seonmudo training. This will enrich your experience and foster a deeper connection with both the practice and fellow participants.
Prepare for Physical Challenges: Be ready for the physical demands of Seonmudo training and the 108 prostrations. Stretching beforehand and staying hydrated can help ease muscle soreness and improve your overall experience.
