Myogaksa, Buddhist temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Myogaksa is a Buddhist temple located on the eastern side of Mount Naksan in Seoul, featuring traditional wooden structures with decorated roofs and multiple ceremonial halls. The various buildings are arranged across the hillside and connected by paved paths and staircases that guide visitors through the complex.
The temple was established in May 1930 by Buddhist monk Taeheo Hongseon, who selected this location based on geomantic principles for the benefit of Seoul residents. The founding became part of a broader movement to strengthen Buddhism in Korea during the early 1900s.
The temple serves as the main administrative hub for the Gwaneum Order of Korean Buddhism. Visitors can observe regular ceremonies here that reflect Buddhist practices and the daily rhythm of the resident monks and nuns.
Visitors can reach the temple by walking uphill along Choui-ro street from Dongmyo Station. Admission is free and the grounds allow plenty of time to explore the various halls and rest in the quieter areas.
A Buddhist statue carved directly into the mountain cliffs has been recognized as a cultural asset of Seoul, showing how the temple merges with its natural setting. This integration of the landscape into the sacred space creates an unusual harmony between built structures and mountain terrain.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
