Jogyesa Temple is the main temple of the Jogye Order(Subgroup), the largest sect of Korean Buddhism. Given that over 80% of temples across the country belong to the Jogye Order, Jogyesa can be understood as representing more than 80% of Korean temples. Bongeunsa Temple, located in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, also belongs to the Jogye Order.
Completed in 1938, the temple is just shy of being 90 years old. Despite its relatively short history, Jogyesa’s status as the representative temple of the Jogye Order and its location within the Hanyang-Doseong(Fortress) are deeply connected to Korea’s unfortunate history in the early 1900s, marked by forced occupation by Japan. As such, Jogyesa also carries symbolic significance as a representation of national independence.
Jogyesa Temple’s Dharma Hall serves as the main venue for several Buddhist events, holding rituals, lectures, ceremonies, and other events all year long. The annual lantern festival in celebration of Buddha’s birthday also takes place at this temple.
Main Dharma Hall “Daeungjeon” © Jogyesa Temple
Location, Access by Subway
Location on Google Maps
Line 3 Anguk Station, Exit 6 or Line 1 Jonggak Station, Exit 2
How to Visit a Temple
The following image is a layout of Jogyesa Temple. Number ① indicates the temple’s entrance, and number ② refers to the Main Dharma Hall “Daeungjeon”, where the Buddha is enshrined. The Daeungjeon Hall is the most significant building in a temple, as it houses Shakyamuni Buddha.
To enter the Daeungjeon Hall and pay respects to the Buddha, use the side door. Upon entering, place your hands together in prayer (hapjang) and perform a half-bow. Then, stand near the side wall and quietly observe the Buddha, the Korean Buddhist paintings (Tanghwa) behind the statue, or other notable features. When leaving, once again place your hands together, perform a half-bow, and exit through the same door you entered. This practice applies to all Dharma Halls, including the Daeungjeon Hall, where side doors are designated for entry and exit.
Take some time to walk quietly around the temple grounds. While walking, focus on the sensation of your feet touching the ground and walk lightly and slowly. Temples, like places of worship in other religions, are spaces for the religious activities of Buddhist practitioners. As you immerse yourself in the solemn atmosphere of religious practices, take the opportunity to appreciate the statues, paintings, and architectural styles of Korean Buddhism. This reflective experience may even bring a sense of peace to your heart.
If you wish to participate in or observe a temple event, check the temple’s website for announcements in advance. At Jogyesa Temple, guidance for foreigners is available, so you may also inquire by phone.
The following are precautions to take when visiting a temple. Temples are spaces dedicated to prayer and meditation. Therefore, it is important to consider the needs of practitioners. Avoid actions such as photographing practitioners during their meditation, consuming food, speaking loudly, and entering restricted areas. When you wish to photograph a Buddha statue, always ask in advance if photography is permitted.
© Jogyesa Temple
(1)One Pillar Gate “Iljumun” (2)Main Dharma Hall “Daeungjeon” (3)Paradise Hall “Geungnakjeon” (4)Counseling Center (5)Brahma Bell Pavilion “Beomjongnu” (6)Youth Center (7)Buddhist sanctuary for Monk (8)Restaurant “Manbal”(under the ground), Nursing Room(on the ground) (9)Korean Buddhism University of Culture (10)Buddhist sanctuary for Children(B1), Restaurant “Seongso”(1F), Hall of Bodhisattva of Compassion “Gwaneumjeon”(2F), Templestay Room(3~4F)
(11)Octagonal Ten-Storied Buddha Relic Stupa (12)Pagoda Tree (13)Cafeteria “GAPI” (14)Pilgrimage Center “GAPI” (15)Day-care Center (16)Prayer Reception Center2 (17)Joygesa Templestay Building (18)Prayer Reception Center1 (19)Information Center for Foreigners (20)Statue of Child Buddha (21)Lacebark Pine Tree “Baeksong” (22)Jogyesa Temple Historical Monument (23)Parking Lot (24)Ujeongchongguk (25)Toilet (26)Korean Buddhist History and Culture Center: Central Buddhist Museum(B1) (27)Cafeteria “NAMU”