Samgwangsa Temple

Religious spot
★ 4.9 (34K+ reviews) • 492K+ booked
Nestled on the serene slopes of Mt. Baekyangsan in Busanjin-gu, Busan, Samgwangsa Temple is a vibrant testament to Korea's rich Buddhist heritage. This captivating temple, belonging to the Cheontae-jong Order, offers a unique spiritual experience that sets it apart from many other temples. Known for its breathtaking Lantern Festival during Buddha’s Birthday, Samgwangsa Temple provides a stunning display of colorful lights that illuminate the night sky, drawing visitors from all over the world. The temple's location offers panoramic views of Busan City, making it a perfect spot for those seeking both tranquility and cultural immersion. Whether you're looking for spiritual solace or a deeper understanding of Korean Buddhist culture, Samgwangsa Temple is a must-visit destination that promises serenity and architectural grandeur.
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77 Choeupcheon-ro 43beon-gil, Busanjin District, Busan, South Korea
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Samgwangsa Temple Reviews

4.9 /5
34K+ reviews
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erin ******
1 Jul
everything was on time and well organized! we saw so much in just a day. our guide, Ken, was great and very personable! I would recommend this tour for folks who have a short or long stay in Busan.
Chingyi ****
1 Jul
Kayla was great guide help us with photo taking, informative about the location.
lee ******
30 Jun
The tour guide was very good at explaining. The group I joined had ten people. The special car was very convenient. It was a small group worth joining. It was a very fulfilling day from morning to night.
CHEUNG *****
30 Jun
We planned the itinerary and communicated with the driver in advance. The driver drove according to our requirements and made the most of the required attractions in eight hours. Nice day trip.
2+
Regis ***
30 Jun
managed to get 50% DBS voucher to buy the Busan ktx ticket is the best deal’ ticket emailed to me within a few hours. very comfortable ride. highly recommended
Gladys ***
30 Jun
Great Busan City Experience! I joined the Busan City One Day Tour last Friday through Klook, and it was an amazing experience from beginning to end. As a first-time visitor to Busan, this tour was the perfect way to see all the must-visit spots in one comfortable and well-organized day. Our Korean guide, Leo, was fantastic. He is able to communicate in English, Mandarin, and even some Japanese, making the tour inclusive and accessible for a diverse group. He was very knowledgeable and shared lots of interesting information about each destination. He also gave us great tips on other things to see and do in Busan. The whole trip ran smoothly, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. The transportation was clean and comfortable, and the itinerary was suitable for all ages. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Busan. This tour is a fantastic way to explore the city with ease, comfort, and insight!
Klook会員
29 Jun
The car was clean and the ride was comfortable. I felt relieved that he arrived before the meeting time and called out to me. David was very kind and considerate, so I had a great time. The tour started in the evening, so I was able to explore Gamcheon Culture Village while it was still light, and we took lots of great photos at each tourist spot. The course and David were both great! I highly recommend it!
1+
Chee *******
29 Jun
personally, I think this is really easy to use as compared to the KTX website. once you selected the right date and time, then klook will process for you and you will get the confirmation. the seats are allocated, you don't need to worry that no seat available like some other country.
2+

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Daebo Tower

Prepare to be awestruck by the Daebo Tower, the largest stone pagoda in Asia, standing majestically with its nine tiers crowned by a gold-plated lotus flower. This architectural wonder is not just a visual delight but a spiritual haven, housing 53 Buddhas and sacred relics. Whether you're a history buff or a spiritual seeker, the Daebo Tower offers a profound experience that resonates with the soul.

Lantern Festival

Step into a world of enchantment at the Samgwangsa Temple's Lantern Festival, a dazzling celebration that lights up the night sky with over 40,000 colorful lanterns. Held annually during Buddha’s Birthday, this festival is a feast for the eyes and a deep dive into Korean culture and spirituality. It's an unforgettable experience that captures the heart and imagination of every visitor.

Main Hall

Discover the heart of Samgwangsa Temple at the Main Hall, where exquisite paintings and intricate carvings create a serene and sacred atmosphere. Home to a shrine with three Buddhas, including Seokgamoni-bul, the historical Buddha, this hall is a must-visit for anyone seeking peace and reflection amidst stunning artistry. It's a place where history and spirituality beautifully converge.

Cultural Significance

Samgwangsa Temple is a vibrant hub of the Cheontae Order of Korean Buddhism, emphasizing the profound teachings of the Lotus Sutra. Despite its modern construction in 1983, the temple has become a significant spiritual center, reflecting the resurgence of this Buddhist order in South Korea. Dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, the temple is renowned for its ornate architecture and artistic displays, offering a deep dive into Buddhist culture.

Lantern Festival

Experience the magic of the Samgwangsa Lantern Festival, held annually on Buddha's Birthday. This enchanting event transforms the temple into a dazzling sea of light and color, with millions of lanterns illuminating the night. It's a vibrant celebration that draws visitors from around the globe, offering a unique glimpse into Korean culture and spirituality.

Architectural Marvels

Explore the architectural wonders of Samgwangsa Temple, featuring impressive structures like the Jikwan-jeon Hall, which serves as an assembly hall, Buddhist college, and library. The Bell Pavilion is another highlight, housing a large Brahma Bell and other Dharmic instruments. These architectural marvels provide a serene backdrop for reflection and exploration.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Founded in 1986, Samgwangsa Temple stands as a beacon of Buddhist culture in Busan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds, exploring Buddhist practices and gaining insight into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.