Jogyesa

A traditional trip in the heart of the city with your kids, Jogyesa

What kind of place is Jogyesa?

• Jogyesa is a representative Korean Buddhist temple located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, and it is the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.
• It was founded in 1910 under the name Gakhwangsa and later changed to Jogyesa as it is known today. It is a special place where you can experience traditional culture right in the middle of the city.

What makes Jogyesa special

1. A harmony of tradition and modern life in central Seoul
   • Jogyesa sits in the middle of bustling downtown Seoul, where modern buildings and the calm atmosphere of a traditional temple come together in a unique way.
2. A variety of cultural assets and things to see
   • Inside the temple grounds, you will find Daeungjeon, the White Pine tree designated as Natural Monument No. 9, and important Buddhist paintings and sculptures.
   • There are many chairs in the courtyard in front of Daeungjeon, so you can sit and take a short rest.
3. Rich events including the Lotus Lantern Festival
   • Around Buddha's Birthday each year, the Lotus Lantern Festival is held, and Jogyesa glows brightly with thousands of colorful lanterns.
   • A variety of hands-on events such as lantern making and parades are also offered, so children can participate directly.
4. Buddhist experiences and a restful space
   • The temple runs a Temple Stay program, with various Buddhist cultural activities that you can enjoy with your child, such as learning temple etiquette and making lotus flowers.
   • You can also take a moment to learn about the history of Buddhism in Korea and explore Jogyesa while discovering history from the Joseon Dynasty through the Japanese colonial period.

Tips for visiting with children

• Since this is a temple, quiet viewing is needed throughout the grounds.
• In autumn, a chrysanthemum exhibition is displayed, featuring unusual decorations with flowers and topiary around statues of Buddha and young monks.
• During the Lotus Lantern Festival and other cultural event periods, you can enjoy a special experience with your child, so be sure to check the event schedule in advance.
• There is a dedicated parking lot, but it is paid. Using public transportation is more convenient, such as Jonggak Station on Line 1 or Anguk Station on Line 3.

Location and how to get there

• Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Jogyesa
• Main transportation options: About a 6-minute walk from Exit 2 of Jonggak Station on Line 1, or about a 5-minute walk from Exit 6 of Anguk Station on Line 3

Experiences you can enjoy at Jogyesa

1. Admiring traditional temple architecture and beautiful cultural assets
2. Relaxing and taking a walk in the middle of the city
3. Various experience-based events such as the Lotus Lantern Festival and Temple Stay
4. An easy and natural opportunity for your child to experience Korean Buddhist culture

Jogyesa offers a great opportunity to take a walk with your child and learn about Korean culture and history through various programs. In the garden, there are also fun cartoon statues that children may enjoy, including topiary figures of the twelve zodiac animals and Dooly and friends. In addition, events for children are held every year with food, rides, and a variety of hands-on activities, so it is worth checking the schedule and joining in. There are also many nearby places worth visiting together, such as the Angukdong Open Songhyeon Green Space, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Insadong. Admission is free.

"[Reference: The 12th I Am a Painter Children's Art Contest will be held on 2023.10.22. Please check the attached image for details.]"