The summer is truly flying by! At first, it felt like summer would never end, but here we are getting ready to start the month of September and back to school season. The good news is that autumn is a great season for a variety of outdoor activities. So, my recommendation for today is that you check out the Haedong Yonggung Temple [해동용궁사]!

General Information

If I directly translate Haedong Yonggung Temple, it would be “Ocean Dragon Palace Temple.” This name suits the temple very nicely. The vibe at Haedong Yonggung Temple differs from any other temple. While most are located in the mountains, Haedong Yonggung is positioned right next to the ocean. This is one of the many reasons why Haedong Yonggung Temple is always flooded with people.

Location: Yonggung-gil (Yonggung Rd) 86, Gijang

Open: From 5 am until sunset (6:30ish)

Admission: It is free to enter the temple, but you must pay to park your car.

The prices for parking are as follows: 2,000 won (first 30 mins), 500 won (per extra 10 mins) and 20,000 won (daily maximum)

The History of Haedong Yonggung Temple

It is believed to have been first built in 1376 by King Gongmin. It was later destroyed during a Japanese invasion in 1952. The temple was then rebuilt in 1930 by Monk Un-Kang of the Tongdo Temple. In 1974, the Haedong Yonggung Temple was named by a monk named Jeongam. It is said that Jeongam chose the name after he dreamed of a flying dragon.

What to expect

On the way to the temple, you will pass several cafes, souvenir shops, and 12 different stone zodiac statues. Many people take pictures next to their zodiac animals there.

After entering, you will walk down 108 stairs. This number refers to spiritual completion in Buddhism.

The statue is called “득남불.” Many believe that this statue is able to help those who have had a hard time conceiving. The three little statues are called “학업성취불” and they are supposed to help students pass an exam.

Many people toss coins over the bridge at the entrance as a way of bringing them good luck. The bridge is also a great place to take a quick picture. Nearby, there is a beautiful bamboo forest that brings a relaxing feeling to the area.

The statue is called “굴법당. This stone statue is 10 meters tall and is said to be the biggest stone statue in Korea.

How to get here

From Bexco, you can take the bus No. 181 or 1001 and get off at the Yonggung Temple/ National Maritime Science Center Stop.

What else can you do?

*Lotte Premium Outlet Dong-Busan sells many big names for an affordable price.

*Skyline Luge People of all ages can enjoy the activities here!

*Gijang Children’s Museum If you travel with kids, check out the Gijang Children’s Museum. There are so many different things that your kids can explore while visiting.

*Ananti Hilton Busan This is a 5-star hotel located very close to the temple. Even if you don’t stay here, there is a small town on the hotel property where you can shop and dine.