Jinkwansa

Jinkwansa is a Buddhist temple situated in Eunpyeong District within Bukhansan National Park, spread across mountainous grounds with several main buildings. The complex includes the Daeungjeon, Myeongbujeon, and Nahanjeon halls positioned across the forested landscape.

A king of the Goryeo Dynasty ordered the construction of this temple to express gratitude to a Buddhist priest named Jinkwan who saved his life. This founding story connects the site to Korea's royal and religious past.

The temple hosts Suryukjae ceremonies, specialized Buddhist rituals dedicated to spirits that visitors can observe during temple events. These practices shape how daily life unfolds here and reveal spiritual traditions that have been maintained over centuries.

The temple is best reached by public transportation, taking buses 7211 or 7723 that serve the Hanago area with connections from nearby subway stations. Comfortable footwear is recommended as the grounds are mountainous with trails that wind through forest.

The temple operates specialized training programs for female monks, setting it apart from many other Buddhist institutions in South Korea. This commitment has allowed women to pursue intensive monastic training within its walls.