For a unique stay in South Korea, consider booking a temple stay experience. Temple stays offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Korean Buddhist culture while enjoying a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
During a temple stay, you’ll have the chance to participate in various activities such as meditation sessions led by experienced monks, tea ceremonies, traditional temple meals (known as “baru gongyang”), and even Buddhist chanting rituals. These experiences provide a glimpse into the daily life of monks and offer a chance for personal reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.
Many temples are nestled in serene natural settings, surrounded by mountains or forests, providing a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation and relaxation. Some popular temple stay destinations include Golgulsa Temple in Gyeongju, Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon, and Magoksa Temple in Gongju, among others.
Additionally, South Korea offers unique accommodation options such as hanok stays. Hanoks are traditional Korean houses characterized by their wooden architecture, tiled roofs, and heated floors (ondol). Staying in a hanok allows guests to experience traditional Korean lifestyle firsthand while enjoying modern comforts. Some hanok villages, like Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul or Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju, offer accommodation options ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hanok hotels.
Whether you choose a temple stay, a hanok stay or another unconventional accommodation option, South Korea offers a range of unique experiences that promise to make your stay memorable and enriching.