Haedong Yonggungsa Temple – Busan, South Korea

Our last full day in Busan and it was stinking hot! After all the food and modernity of Busan, we decided to get a little culture back in our lives by visiting the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

After walking to Haeundae Station, we found the bus stop near Exit No. 7 and waited for the 181 to arrive. From memory, I think it was roughly W1,200 per person? The 20-30min bus ride was interesting in itself, weaving through the suburban streets of Busan, showing us a different side to the city. The stop you’re looking for is “Yonggungsa Temple”, but to be honest I couldn’t see anything saying that. Thank goodness for the English announcement on the bus!

One of the telltale signs that you’re getting close to the stop is the very large, barren tract of land undergoing the first stages of a massive development! At the top of the hill is the bus stop, but there aren’t many (if any) signs in English indicating where you should go next. After alighting, cross the road and don’t follow the crowds by turning left…instead, turn right and walk back the way you came and then take the first road to your left. After 5-10mins you’ll find yourself at the temple entrance.

Incredibly, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is free to enter. It’s a gorgeous temple, perched on seaside boulders overlooking the azure waters of the East Sea, and is well worth the longish bus ride.

Stunning vistas

Stunning vistas

Karen wasn't going anywhere near this bloke!!

Karen wasn’t going anywhere near this bloke!!

A local diver exploring the waters beneath the temple

A local diver exploring the waters beneath the temple

Looking out to sea...

Looking out to sea…

I'm not quite sure about the symbolism here...?

Apparently the little figurines encourage academic learning…?

They're everywhere!

They’re everywhere!

At the Buddha's feet...

At the Buddha’s feet…

Lots of clever cookies...

Lots of clever cookies…

How much does it cost to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple?

It’s free!!

Where to stay in Busan?

A room at the Park Hyatt, Busan - Accommodation for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Park Hyatt, Busan

We don’t normally do this, but when we saw the quality of the rooms offered at the Park Hyatt in Busan, we knew this had to be our ‘splurge’ option on the holiday!

The customer service, the pool facilities, the toiletries…everything was simply amazing. The location was also perfect for our needs, being only a short walk from both the gorgeous Haeundae Beach and one of the subway stations. And those views towards the Gwangandaegyo Bridge…wow!!

Click here to find out more or to make a booking. It’s one of those special experiences you’ll never forget!

More information?

Drop by the Visit Korea website, here.