How to Experience a Temple Stay in Korea
A Local Korean Woman’s Guide to Slowing Down and Seeing the Real Korea
If you are traveling in South Korea and want something deeper than sightseeing and shopping, a Temple Stay is one of the most meaningful experiences you can choose. As a Korean local, I often recommend Temple Stay to friends from abroad who want to understand Korea beyond K-pop, food, and city life.
A Temple Stay allows you to stay overnight at a Buddhist temple and experience a slower, quieter way of living. You do not need to be Buddhist or spiritual to participate. Many people join simply to rest their minds, enjoy nature, and learn about Korean culture from a different angle.
What Exactly Is a Temple Stay?
A Temple Stay is a cultural program run by Buddhist temples across Korea. Participants stay inside the temple grounds and follow a simple daily schedule inspired by monastic life.
During a typical Temple Stay, you may experience meditation, chanting, tea ceremonies, mindful walking, and traditional vegetarian temple meals. Some programs are calm and reflective, while others include cultural activities such as lantern making or basic Buddhist teachings.
Programs range from a few hours to several nights, making it easy to fit a Temple Stay into almost any travel plan.
Where Can You Do a Temple Stay in Korea?
Temple Stay programs are available all over Korea, from busy cities to quiet mountain temples.
In Seoul, temples like Jogyesa are ideal for first-time visitors who want an easy introduction without traveling far. Outside the city, temples near Gyeongju or deep in the mountains offer a more immersive experience surrounded by nature.
Each temple has its own atmosphere. Some focus on meditation and silence, while others emphasize cultural learning. Choosing the right temple depends on whether you want a gentle introduction or a deeper retreat.
How to Book a Temple Stay
Booking a Temple Stay is simple and can usually be done online.
You choose a temple, select your preferred dates, and decide on the length of stay. Some programs fill quickly, especially on weekends or during peak travel seasons, so booking early is a good idea.
After booking, the temple usually sends instructions explaining arrival time, what to bring, and basic rules to follow during your stay.
What a Typical Temple Stay Schedule Looks Like
Although schedules vary, most overnight Temple Stays follow a similar structure.
On the first day, you arrive in the afternoon, change into temple clothing, and attend an orientation. You may participate in a cultural activity, followed by a vegetarian dinner. In the evening, there is usually chanting or meditation, then quiet personal time.
The next morning starts early with dawn chanting or meditation. After breakfast, there may be a tea ceremony or group discussion before check-out.
The schedule is gentle but structured, encouraging mindfulness without pressure.
Temple Food: Simple but Meaningful
Temple meals are vegetarian and based on seasonal ingredients. Garlic, onions, and meat are traditionally avoided, creating clean and subtle flavors.
For many visitors, temple food is a pleasant surprise. It feels light, healthy, and deeply connected to the idea of mindful eating. Meals are usually eaten quietly, allowing you to focus on taste and gratitude rather than conversation.
What to Wear and How to Behave
Temples are living religious spaces, so respectful behavior is important.
Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Comfortable clothes are best since you may sit on the floor during meditation. Shoes are removed when entering indoor temple buildings.
Silence is often encouraged, especially during ceremonies. You are not expected to know everything, but following instructions and observing respectfully goes a long way.
Who Is Temple Stay Best For?
Temple Stay is perfect for travelers who want a calm, reflective experience. It is ideal for people curious about Buddhism, Korean culture, or mindfulness.
Even if you are not spiritual, Temple Stay offers a rare chance to step away from busy schedules and digital distractions. Many participants leave feeling refreshed, grounded, and inspired.
Why Temple Stay Is Worth Experiencing
From a Korean perspective, Temple Stay is one of the few travel experiences that truly reflects our traditional values of balance, respect, and harmony with nature.
You gain more than photos or souvenirs. You gain a new rhythm, a new way of thinking, and a deeper understanding of Korea that most tourists never see.
If you want to experience Korea slowly, quietly, and meaningfully, a Temple Stay is absolutely worth trying.