Hi, haven't been on this forum for a long time (not that I used to be a busy poster anyways...).

I'm going to Korea mid-October until end of November or so. I speak a bit of Korean but not so much. I'm thinking of participating in a temple stay (one for lay-lay ppl, not a retreat).
My mom is a devout Korean-Christian (Pentecostal), I might better not even tell her I want to do this (I know I know...)

Anyways, I wanted to ask if anyone has experience w/ temple stays in Korea and/or can recommend a temple or tell me what it was like etc.?
It would have to be a temple that offers English language (or German...) temple stays.


Thank you very much!/Kamsahamnida

kyu-ree

hi kyu-ree,

You probably already have this link, but if not:

http://eng.templestay.com/temple/list.asp?indiv_chk=1

Regarding the experience: I have heard that it really varies from temple to temple.
I will try to post a recommendation here in a couple days. (just got back from travelling out of the country)

bori

The Lotus Latern Temple in Ganghwa-Do is pretty good. I stayed there. It's not a fancy temple, but the food was great and the people are hospitable. It was an enjoyable experience. It's called Yeon Deung Guk Je Seong Weon.

I also stayed at Golgulsa, which I didn't enjoy. However, a friend of mine stayed there and loved it! It's the center of a special Korean martial arts called Seon Mu Do. If you're into martial arts, Golgulsa might be nice for you.

the buddha in sokkuram grotto, pukguksa, in kyungju, is one of the wonders of the world

[there's a book of major korean temples, artbook format, with a color page for each, plus text, but i can't put my finger on it at the moment]

north korea will also let visitors in to see the temple near the border, i think it's called sea diamond

please enjoy korea!

It's a fantastic experience. Hightly recommened.

My favorate stays were at Kapsa and Heinsa.

I can't comment on the language because I speak Korean and therefore this is not a problem.

http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/CU/CU_EN_8_3_4.jsp

I would recommend Mihwang-sa. Good people, open to foreigners and mind on serving, not taking. (I have stayed there, but not during temple stay)

Unfortunately, the English version of their website does not seem to be working right now.

You can find them on the link above.

good luck.