Bulguksa Temple
15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Just outside Gyeongju, the 8th-century Bulguksa Temple is renowned for its ornate gardens and vibrant pagodas. Built on a sprawling site, it’s still a functioning Buddhist temple, so visitors will likely see resident monks performing ceremonies. Seven National Treasures, mischievous chipmunks, and wish-granting rock piles add to the UNESCO-listed complex’s charm.
The basics
Finding your way to and from Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Shrine from Gyeongju is relatively easy to do independently. But attempting to visit the Gyeongju area’s other can’t-miss historic attractions on your own can be a challenge.
As a result, many travelers opt for a full-day private or group tour from Gyeongju or Busan. Most pre-booked excursions include roundtrip transportation, lunch, guided tours, and visits to Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Seokguram, and other local landmarks.
Things to know before you go
Since the grounds are expansive, give yourself at least two hours to explore the temple’s history, landmarks, and lush foliage.
If you wish to book a temple stay, be sure to do so in advance, as it fills up quickly.
Bulguksa is still an active temple, and it’s essential to be aware of etiquette. Always remove shoes before entering shrine halls and other religious buildings, and be respectful of practitioners.
How to get there
Travelers from Gyeongju can take bus 10 or 11 from the Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal or bus 700 from Geyongju Station. After the 40-to-50-minute ride, there is a 10-minute walk to the temple. Alternatively, a taxi will take 20-30 minutes. Those traveling from Busan can expect a minimum 2-hour trip by train or bus, or a 1-hour taxi ride. Simplify the transportation experience with a roundtrip tour from either city.
When to get there
To see Korea’s iconic cherry blossoms in full effect, your best bet is coordinating your visit to the final week of March. Otherwise, aim for autumn when the leaves are changing color. Travelers to the temple who wish to avoid overwhelming crowds should arrive when it opens early in the morning.
Near the temple
Expand your temple adventure to include a visit to the nearby 8th-century Seokguram Grotto. The treasured site presents an 11.5-foot (3.5-meter) Buddha statue and exceptional sea views. From Bulguksa Temple, take bus 12, followed by a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. The Seokguram Grotto is often included on day tours from Gyeongju and Busan.
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