VISITOR GUIDE
Before you visit a Korean temple
How a self-guided visit differs from a templestay, what to pack for a stay, and the basic etiquette described by Korea's official templestay operator.
Every temple has its own rules. Follow posted signs and the instructions of monks and staff first.
Self-guided visits and templestays
Self-guided visit
Walking around a temple on your own needs no program. Opening hours and whether you need to book differ by temple, so check each temple page on Seon before you go.
Day program
Lasts two hours or more and, depending on the temple, starts around 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. You try basic activities such as making prayer beads. It suits travelers who are short on time.
Experience program (overnight)
A typical one-night stay starts with check-in around 2–3 p.m., then an evening service, 108 bows and meditation. The dawn service is around 4 a.m., and the program ends around noon to 1 p.m. Activities vary by temple and season.
Rest program (overnight)
You stay at the temple but skip most activities, joining only essentials such as services if you wish, and spend the rest of the time on your own.
Participation is voluntary
Every activity is voluntary, and you do not need to be Buddhist to take part. If you would rather not do the 108 bows, you can sit quietly instead.
What to bring for a templestay
Toiletries and a towel
Bring shampoo, conditioner, a toothbrush, facial cleanser, a hair dryer and a towel. Bathrooms usually have soap and toothpaste.
A change of clothes
Pack a change of clothes. Temples usually give you a vest and trousers to wear when you check in.
A warm layer
Except in midsummer, mornings and evenings at mountain temples are cold, so bring a cardigan or jacket.
Check your program page
What each temple provides differs, so read the program description when you book.
Temple etiquette
Chasu: hands folded
The basic posture inside a temple is chasu: lightly hold the back of your left hand with your right hand.
Hapjang: a bow with palms together
When you meet a monk outdoors, stop where you are and give a half bow with your palms together.
Bow before entering a hall
Before you enter or leave a hall such as the main Buddha hall, pause and give a light half bow with palms together toward the center.
Use the side doors
Enter a hall through the side doors, not the central door, which is for monks. Inside, sit away from the center, which is kept for monks' services.
Keep quiet in the hall
Do not speak loudly in a hall. If someone is praying or bowing, walk behind them.
No drinking, smoking or noise
Drinking, smoking and loud behavior that disturbs the temple are not allowed.
Sources and checks
Information may change after the check date. Items not listed here are outside these source checks.
- Self-guided visits and templestays · Verified · Checked: · Next review:
- What to bring · Verified · Checked: · Next review:
- Temple etiquette · Verified · Checked: · Next review: