Discovering Serenity: My South Korea Adventure and Overnight Temple Stay
Whether you’re an avid traveler or a curious first timer, consider stepping into the world of a temple stay. It’s not just travel—it’s transformation.
When I joined our South Korea Spotlight trip, I had no idea just how transformative this journey would be. It was the first EF Ultimate Break tour to South Korea, a groundbreaking adventure aiming to introduce more travelers to this part of the world. I was lucky to travel on this inaugural journey—and it was nothing short of extraordinary.
The itinerary took us through the vibrant streets of Seoul, the historic beauty of Gyeongju, and the laid-back coastal charm of Busan. It was a perfect blend of urban excitement, cultural immersion, and natural tranquility. But one highlight stood out: the overnight temple stay at Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju. It was an experience that redefined travel for me, offering peace, introspection, and a rare glimpse into the life of South Korean Buddhist monks.
Bukguska Temple, Alyssa Sands
Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Heritage gem
Nestled among lush, peaceful forests, Bulguksa Temple is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 8th century. It’s a masterpiece of Korean Buddhist culture, boasting seven national treasures, including the iconic Seokgatap and Dabotap pagodas. Walking up the stone steps of the Anyangmun-Gate and Jahamun-Gate, I felt the grandeur of the Silla Dynasty come alive. The temple’s history and spiritual significance made it the perfect setting for an overnight stay.
What’s a temple stay?
A temple stay is a unique way to step into the world of Korean Buddhism, exploring its philosophy, practices, and tranquil way of life. At Bulguksa, this experience combined cultural education with deep introspection. We learned about the temple’s rich heritage, practiced meditation, and even participated in 108 prostrations—a ritual that symbolizes humility and self-reflection. While the physical challenge was real (hello, sore legs!), it was profoundly rewarding.
Bukguska Temple, Alyssa Sands
Immersing in serenity
As evening fell, the crowds disappeared, and we had the temple grounds to ourselves. The serenity was palpable. Monks emerged to perform their evening sound meditation, playing Dharma instruments that filled the cool night air with resonant percussion. When the music faded, the forest came alive with its own symphony. It was a moment of pure magic. We wore traditional temple garments, shared simple vegetarian meals in silence, and slept on floor mats in shared rooms. At 5am, we rose for a meditative breakfast and greeted the day with renewed mindfulness. The simplicity of the experience—no frills, just raw authenticity—was humbling and grounding.
Pushing your comfort zone
One of the most impactful parts of the temple stay was stepping outside my comfort zone. It wasn’t just about trying new things—it was about embracing an entirely different way of existing. Eating in silence, meditating in ancient halls, and reflecting on life’s impermanence through prostrations taught me lessons I couldn’t have learned elsewhere. Travel has a way of challenging us to grow, and this temple stay was the epitome of that. It was tough but rewarding, different yet beautiful. My legs may have protested for days, but my heart was full after one night at the temple.
Bukguska Temple, Alyssa Sands
Why you should try a temple stay
If you’re looking for an experience that combines cultural immersion with self-discovery, a temple stay is a must. It’s not just a window into Buddhism—it’s a journey inward. You’ll gain new perspectives, push your limits, and walk away with stories that will stay with you forever.
As I look back on my time in South Korea, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences, the connections, and the moments of stillness that reminded me why I love to travel. And for anyone wondering if South Korea should be on their bucket list, my answer is a resounding yes—and make sure to pack an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. It’ll be worth it.
