Jogyesa Temple : Finding Serenity in the Heart of Seoul

As Buddha's Birthday approaches in Korea on May 15th of this year, my mind drifts back to my visit to Jogyesa Temple, a central location for the vibrant Lotus Lantern Festival.

Jogyesa Temple welcomes visitors seeking a place for homage, prayer, or reflection. Nestled in the heart of Seoul, near the popular Insadong district, this ancient Buddhist temple boasts a rich history. The Daeungjeon Hall, its main building, has stood for over 500 years and houses a revered statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.

Left: Baby Buddha   Right: Ten Story Buddha Relic Stupa 

While photography within the main hall is prohibited to ensure a peaceful environment for prayer and meditation, the surrounding grounds offer ample opportunities to capture the temple's serene atmosphere. A towering pine tree, reaching an impressive 26 meters, stands as a testament to the temple's age and adds to its charm. A closer look reveals a small statue of Baby Buddha nestled near the main hall, offering a glimpse into the temple's dedication to the life of the Buddha.

The temple bell tolls, echoing through Jogyesa Temple. 

Witnessing the monks ringing the temple bell is another highlight. The sound resonates throughout the grounds, drawing tourists to the bell pavilion eager to capture this special moment on camera.

The towering Ten Story Buddha Relic Stupa adorned with vibrant Lotus Lantern Festival decorations.
(Photo : Koreanet/Flickr KIM SUNJOO)

Each May, Jogyesa Temple comes alive with the vibrant Lotus Lantern Festival, a celebration of Buddha's birthday. The temple grounds will be adorned with lanterns featuring lotuses and other traditional figures, each one embodying the wishes of visitors. These lanterns will be illuminated from 6 pm to midnight, creating a magical atmosphere.

The Lotus Lantern Parade illuminates Seoul
(Photo : Koreanet/Flickr KIM SUNJOO)

The highlight of the festival is the Lotus Lantern Parade, a three-day celebration culminating on a date near Buddha's birthday. This spectacular event winds its way along Jongno Street from Dongdaemun Gate to Jogyesa Temple. With thousands of participants, each carrying their own lantern, the parade becomes a river of light flowing through the heart of Seoul.

The vibrant lanterns at the Jogyesa Temple during the Lotus Lantern Festival.
(Photo : Koreanet/Flickr Jeon Han)

Visitors, both Korean and international, can participate in traditional practices during their visit. Offering prayer candles and walking around the carved stone pagoda are popular activities. This seven-tiered pagoda holds a particular significance, as it houses relics of Sakyamuni Buddha. Additionally, visitors can choose to participate in prayer or meditation sessions within the main hall, further deepening their connection with the temple's spiritual essence.

500 years of serenity: Daeungjeon Hall, Jogyesa Temple. 

The accessibility of Jogyesa Temple further enhances its appeal. Its central location in Seoul puts it within easy reach of many other tourist attractions. Arriving by subway couldn't be easier – simply alight at Anguk Station (Line 3), take Exit 6, walk straight for 50 meters, cross the road in front of Dongduk Gallery, and walk another 50 meters to find yourself at the entrance of Jogyesa Temple.

Jogyesa Temple offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and cultural immersion for visitors to Korea. Whether seeking a moment of peace amidst the urban buzz, a deeper understanding of Korean Buddhism, or simply a beautiful sight to behold, Jogyesa Temple welcomes all with open arms, especially during the dazzling spectacle of the Lotus Lantern Festival.