How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan
One of Busan’s most revered sights is the iconic temple, Haedong Yonggungsa, carved into the cliff face overlooking the East Sea (Sea of Japan). Locals and tourists alike flock to this photogenic buddhist temple, but it’s a little off the beaten path to get to as it is out of the main tourist areas of Busan in Gijang county.
Is Haedong Yonggungsa worth visiting, though? In my mind, this stunning example of Korean Buddhism in a picturesque location is definitely worth a stop on your Busan itinerary. You can always combine a visit here with a half-day visit to Busan’s famous Haeundae Beach, which is roughly 7 kilometres and a 20 minute drive away.
There are many different ways to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and I found the Korean equivalent of Google Maps, Naver Map, really helpful to figure out the best routes via public transport. Google Maps doesn’t seem to work so well in South Korea. Read my South Korea travel tips before you visit for more handy hints.
How to get to Haedong Yonggungsa
Train
To get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, be prepared for a bit of walking to be tacked on to your trip. If your preference is the Seoul subway, then from Busan station take the Line 1 Orange train towards Choryang Station and then hop off at Busan National University of Education Station.
You’ll then need to change trains to the nice and modern Donghae Grey line until you arrive at OSIRIA station.
Alight from the station and expect around a 30 minute walk, following the signs and trails of tourists up the hill to Haedong Yonggungsa. From Busan station, the trip will take just over an hour and a half and cost around 1500 KRW in subway fares.
Bus
You can shave a little bit of time off your trip and do less walking by taking the bus to Haedong Yonggungsa, but it is a teeny tiny bit more expensive at 1700 KRW. From Busan Station, take the 1003 bus for an hour until you arrive at the Sindosi Market Asean Culture Centre stop.
From there, transfer to the green 181 bus to go a further 12 minutes, with a mere 10 minute walk at the end to get to the temple.
Taxi
If walking isn’t your thing and price is less important, then a 23,000 KRW taxi ride will get you to Haedong Yonggungsa in around 40 minutes – by far the quickest way to reach the temple.
Taxis are able to drive as close as possible to the temple’s grounds, so if you’re trying to avoid walking as much as possible, then this may be the best option for you – though you should note that there is still a lot of walking to be done inside the temple complex.
Where to stay to visit Haedong Yonggungsa
Busan is your jumping off point to explore the region and see the incredible temple of Haedong Yonggungsa. I chose to stay at the lovely Nampo Hound Hotel Premier which is located a stone’s throw from the street food of Changseon Market.
It’s a bustling, fun area to stay – though it is a little way from the coastal temple of Haedong Yonggungsa. You could stay closer to the temple with a few good options like the Ananti Hilton Busan or Hotel Hongdan, but I’d strongly recommend locating yourself in the vibrant, always exciting city of Busan to maximise your sightseeing and eating experiences.
Booking.comWhy Visit Haedong Yonggungsa?
Haedong Yonggungsa is one of Busan’s most iconic sights. The location of the temple dates all the way back to 1376, though the structure itself has been rebuilt due to damage and disrepair that came about during conflict with the Japanese in the Imjin War.
The name Haedong Yonggungsa means Korean Dragon Palace Temple, but this name is only relatively new, having been given to the place in 1974. Prior to this, the temple was called Bomun after the Goddess of Mercy.
Apart from over 600 years of history, the beautiful seaside setting of the ocean cliff face makes a trip to Haedong Yonggungsa particularly spectacular.
What To Do At Haedong Yonggungsa
Throw A Coin For Luck
As you cross the stone bridge into the main temple complex, you’ll see many Koreans lined up along the bridge attempting to throw coins into the small cauldrons among the statues below. Try your luck with a 100 KRW coin and aim to toss it into one of the bowls being held by the figures. Watch the locals if you’re not sure – they’ll show you what to do.
Find the Statue of Your Zodiac Sign
Just outside the main entrance of the temple is a row of statues corresponding to each zodiac sign. Temple visitors often place coins on their zodiac sign for luck. Try your luck with a coin or simply pose next to your sign for a photo opportunity.
Take a Photo with the Golden Buddha
Inside the temple complex in the open air sits a large golden Buddha statue that visitors were lining up to take photos of right next to the main pavilion. Strike a pose or rub his belly for luck.
Admire the Main Hall of Haedong Yonggungsa
The main temple hall of Haedong Yonggungsa is spectacularly colourful inside and out. Every beam is painted meticulously with signs of nature and deities. Flowers play a big part in the decor here, with the outside beam designs each featuring a different type of fauna.
One step inside envelopes the senses immediately with colour and light. Visitors donate coins and take a spot on their knees to pray whilst others admire the painted murals and take in the sights.
Try the Street Food Stalls
Either on the way in or out of the temple, make a stop by one of the many street food stalls to sample some of Korea’s local treats. Sweet tooth visitors will love the sugary syrupy Korean pancake, Hotteok. Its a dough filled with brown sugar, cinnamon and nuts or seeds.
Another sugary treat you’ll find here is the yummy Dalgona, which is basically a honeycomb lollipop. You might recall them from the hit TV show Squid Game season 1 where the characters have to use a toothpick to carve out the shape pictured on the dalgona (or die if they fail).
Stalls create them in all different designs and shapes, but the taste is always the same – sweet honeycomb goodness that tastes like the filling in a violet crumble chocolate bar.
Haedong Yonggunsa FAQs
What is the dress code to visit Haedong Yonggungsa?
Haedong Yonggungsa is a temple, so respectful dressing is always appreciated. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is usually considered appropriate temple-wear. It is a good idea to wear comfy shoes so you can make the most of walking around the site, but remember to remove your shoes and hat when entering any of the temple complex’s buildings of worship.
Is there an entrance fee to Haedong Yonggungsa?
Yet another reason to visit the Haedong Yonggungsa temple complex is that it is totally free to visit! So other than the cost of getting to the temple, you can enjoy one of the few free sights in Busan. You may want to keep a few coins with you to throw into the small pots for luck.
How long should I spend at Haedong Yonggungsa?
I found a couple of hours to be plenty of time to enjoy the rugged coastal scenery and wander in and out of the many buildings on the Haedong Yonggungsa site. I paired my visit with a half day in Haeundae Beach in the afternoon before heading back to Nampo.
What are the opening hours for Haedong Yonggungsa?
The temple complex is open from 5am – 8pm, 7 days a week.
What is the nearest station to Haedong Yonggungsa?
The closest train station to Haedong Yonggungsa is OSIRIA station. From here, the temple is a 30 minute walk.
Is Haedong Yonggungsa kid-friendly?
Yes, the temple is generally welcoming to families. Children often enjoy the scenic coastal views, the zodiac animal statues, and the vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals like Buddha’s Birthday when the temple is decorated with lanterns.
Is Haedong Yonggungsa safe to visit?
Haedong Yonggungsa is safe to visit with a few key things to keep in mind. The temple is built on a cliffside and includes 108 stone steps that can be steep and slippery. Pathways may be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Keep a close eye on children, especially near ledges and crowded areas.
Is Haedong Yonggungsa stroller friendly?
Not fully. Due to the stairs and uneven terrain, strollers are not recommended. Baby carriers are a better option for infants and toddlers.
Are there baby change facilities at Haedong Yonggungsa?
Basic restrooms are available near the temple entrance, but baby-changing facilities are limited. Plan accordingly and bring essentials.
Is Haedong Yonggunsa Worth Visiting?
Haedong Yonggungsa may be a little out of the way for visitors to Busan, but it is definitely worth making the way out to the coast to see the rugged temple by the ocean. The views are gorgeous, the street stalls offer up tasty delicacies and the whole complex is a great place to wander around and get in touch with the spiritual side of life.
What else should I visit in Busan?
Busan has so much to offer visitors in addition to the beauty of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. My top suggestions for other activities are: the Busan Tower, which offers incredible views of the region, Gamcheon Culture Village which is a vibrant and quirky former slum and the seafood wonders of the Jagalchi Fish Market. Beach lovers will also enjoy the lovely white sands of Haeundae Beach.
Is Busan safe?
Busan is incredibly safe even as a solo female traveller or a family. The city, like most others, has some issues with petty crimes like pickpocketing however I felt completely safe walking the streets at night.
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