Haeinsa Temple, Hapcheon

Travelling is an experience that should nourish both the soul and the mind. Yet, the influx of other travelers in popular spots can cause disillusionment and fatigue among travelers. No wonder people search for other options that allow them to experience the world both from the lens of a traveler but with the seasoned approach of a local.

Image from flickr

Haeinsa Temple provides travelers with this unique experience through careful meditation, meaningful silences, and reconnecting with a religion that values deep thought.

Many travelers and devotees visit Haeinsa Temple for the specially-carved wooden scriptures; however, you cannot inspect the blocks up close. Special care has been put in place to preserve the Tripitaka Koreana. Even if you’re not Buddhist, you can still appreciate Haeinsa Temple for its quiet location as it is nestled high up in the mountains.

Image from afar.com

If you choose to hike to the temple, you will spot lush green foliage of Gayasa National Parks, cascading waterfalls and rivers, and the occasional wild boar. The entrance fee is 3,000 won for adults or at least 3 USD; it is cheaper if you are in a group or for children.

Monks live in Haeinsa Temple so you might see them praying or chanting in the main hall. Sometimes, there might be other activities like drum-beating or the ringing of the bells. To preserve the natural beauty of the temple and its sacredness, you will not see any convenience stores anywhere so you might want to bring a snack or two.

Because this is a temple, you are highly encouraged to follow the rules: no smoking, no alcohol, and try to be quiet as much as possible.

Image from flickr

To experience Haeinsa fully, it is recommended that you go to the temple stay. There is a one-day program for those who seek to understand the basics of Buddhism. This program includes a temple tour, Cham-seom meditation, and a DA-Seon tea ceremony. You can stay overnight on the weekends.

Image from flickr

The temple tour, meditation, and tea ceremony is part of this too but there are additional activities like the Yebul or Buddhist ceremony and tea time with a monk. The third option is a free-style program where you only need to attend the Buddhist ceremonies and scheduled meals. You are given free rein to use your time as you see fit. There is no one best option as your choice should depend on how much time you have and the experience that you are looking for.

Another aspect that makes this experience special is the journey to get there. Its remoteness only adds to its exclusivity. Daegu is the closest city to the temple. The quickest way to reach Daegu is via the KTX. This option is pricier with one KTX ticket from Seoul can cost you 33,200 won or $30. Look into the different passes available like the 3-day or 5-day pass so you can combine your KTX ticket with your other travels. Taking advantage of 3-day or 5-day passes, then, becomes a cheaper alternative for you. For cheaper options, a lot of buses service Daegu from both major cities. The Seobu terminal services Haeinsa and the areas surrounding it.

Traveling to popular tourist spots can make you feel jaded and exhausted every now and then. Choose experiences that enrich your mind, body, and soul. Haiensa Temple does just that, so pack your bags and you’re guaranteed to come back fully recharged.

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( All images found in google image search and I added images source with the website name. These images are not mine. if there have any false details in this article , please accept my apologies )

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