Jingwansa Temple in Seoul

A view of the structures of Jingwansa Temple in Seoul, Bukhansan National Park

historic jingwansa temple in Seoul

Jingwansa Temple is a very historic Buddhist temple located to the West of Seoul, South Korea. It is named after a government official who lived in 1010 BC.

Preceptor Jingwan was an instructor or teacher during the reign of King Hyeonjong, the eighth king of the Goryeo Dynasty. This temple was dedicated to Jingwan for his contributions to the kingdom.

Jingwansa Temple is one of the four leading temples in Seoul area. The other three are Bulamsa Temple (east), Sammaksa Temple (south), and Seunggasa Temple (north).

brief historical background

Jingwansa, founded in 1011 during the Goryeo Dynasty, holds great historical significance.

The temple was constructed to honor Buddhist priest Jingwan for his act of saving the life of King Hyeon-jong, the 8th ruler of the Goryeo Dynasty, during his youth.

After King Hyeon-jong was exiled from the palace due to a political power struggle, Monk Jingwan provided sanctuary, ultimately preserving the king's life.

Royal Patronage

After Hyeon-jong regained his position in the palace and ascended the throne as king, he ordered the construction of Jingwansa Temple in honor of Jingwan.

This temple held a significant place as it received special protection from the Goryeo royal family, signifying the reverence and importance attached to it.

The establishment of Jingwansa Temple not only served as a physical symbol of respect for Jingwan, but also represented a testament to the enduring legacy of the Goryeo kingdom.

Great King Sejong statue at Gwanghwamun Square

Joseon Dynasty Contributions

In the time of the Joseon Dynasty, King Sejong made an important addition to the royal complex by establishing a library known as Sagadokseodang.

This library played a crucial role in promoting education and nurturing the study of Korean writing, which we now recognize as Hangeul.

King Sejong's initiative to create this library not only facilitated the advancement of learning but also contributed to the preservation and development of Korean culture and language.

Sagadokseodang stands as a testament to King Sejong's dedication to scholarly pursuits and his enduring legacy in the history of Korea.

Korean War and Restoration

Jingwansa Temple faced significant destruction during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.

However, an extensive reconstruction initiative that began in 1963 has successfully revitalized numerous temple structures, reclaiming their former grandeur.

The ongoing dedicated efforts have brought back to life many of the temple's buildings, ensuring that this historical and cultural site continues to flourish.

Present-Day Features

The temple compound features the Daeungjeon, the main hall that enshrines the statue of Sakyamuni, the principal Buddha.

Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to take part in a Templestay program, which provides a glimpse into Korean Buddhism and the daily life of monks.

features & structures

Jingwansa Temple in Seoul is consists of buildings, just like most Buddhist temples have. It has a Daeungjeon Hall (Hall of Sakyamuni), Myeongbujeon (Hall of Judgment), Nahanjeon, bell tower, and other structures.

The Daeungjeon of Jingwansa is the center of the temple area that houses the Sakyamuni, the main Buddha statue.

Other religious statues enshrined in Daeungjeon Hall are Mireukbosal and Jehwagalhwabosal on each side of Sakyamuni.

why visit jingwansa

It is close to the famous hiking mountain -- Bukhansan National Park -- where you can get amazing views around.

Besides, Jingwansa houses various impressive cultural artifacts and historical properties worth investigating.

Above all, it is a serene spot and relaxing place, not only spiritual, where city-dwellers can take a break from the noise and grueling tasks of the daily toils in the city.

A sight at Bukhansan National Park one Autumn day

Interesting Activity Information

The temple is open all year round for all visitors.

Jingwansa Temple is one of those temples permitted to manage a temple stay program. Basically, what the program offers include learning about monastic life of Buddhists, their rituals, etiquette, prayer methods, among other spirit and body practices incorporated in Buddhism practice.

Temple Stay program Offers
Meditation sessions for adults or family who are qualified to apply.
Buddhism practices experience for adults.

Also, the temple offers the above sessions for children, elementary school students, and youth, including middle and high school students.

The sessions for students are usually being offered during summer and winter vacations.

Getting to Jingwansa Temple

Since the temple is located in Seoul area, you can quickly get there via public transports.

By Subway Line 3, get off at Gupabal Station, then come out from Exit 3. From the exit area, look for Bus #7724 (colored Green) that will bring you to Jingwansa Temple's bus stop.

Address: 73, Jingwan-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Jingwan-dong, Seoul, 03308

Phone: 02-359-8410

Thanks for reading this article and hope this helps.
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