Saturday, May 12, 2012

2012 March: Busan: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Address: Busan-si Gijang-gun Gijang-eup Sirang-ri 416-3
Open: 04:00 - 19:00, Free
  

The motto of Haedong Yonggung temple is "At least one of your wishes will be answered here through your heartful prayers." The sea has been with human-being in history from long time ago. It was very calm sometimes while furious sometimes. The Haedong Yonggung temple is situated near the sea unlike other temples located in mountains, therefore it's quite reasonable to call this temple an aquatic Buddhist sanctum. – Reference: www.yongkungsa.or.kr


Elevator oustide Jangsan Station

How to get there: Take the trains on Line 2 (green) going to the last station, Jangsan station.  You can take bus 181 and this will drop you off on the highway and you need to walk on a bit long street to reach the temple. 


We decided to take the cab and the driver is very accommodating to point us directions – i.e. that right turn is going to Haeundae Beach, on your right is the future site of Studio Park (it is by MGM, they are planning to build a studio city, Hollywood Hotel, Film Academy, Entertainment School, a water park and guest lodging – Reference).  Looks like there is another reason to be back here in the next 5 years once the site is up, simply aside from Jinhae’s sakura.


It took us around 15-20 minutes to reach the temple gates at only 5400krw (200php, 2012).  Before the entrance, there are shops selling small statues of monks, beads, crystals, seaweeds and street food.  Statues of zodiac signs are lined leading you to the bridge.




The temple is too busy for bunch of student visitors and people preparing lanterns for Buddha’s birthday.
We did not bother getting inside the temple to see the altar (we had enough from Seoul), but we took the stairs to visit the image from up above and see the top view of the place.
It took us around an hour to roam around the place, to pray, take photos, rest and to reflect.  Going back to the city, you’ll find taxi line near the temple gate, you need now to get to the nearest station, Jangsan. 

We passed by the beach before going to the train and it took us 6300krw (235php, 2012).  Now, we are ready to go back to the city adventure!


Travel Date: March 29, 2012

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