Temple Life At Heungguksa Temple

OVERVIEW

Experience daily life at a Buddhist temple that one of Korea’s most influential monks founded in the 12th century. Although Mongols leveled the original Heungguksa temple, this 17th-century version was constructed on the same site on the slopes of Mt. Yeongchwisan. It is one of several temples that the monk Jinul founded as a sacred place for meditation and enlightenment. But there is much more to the monastic life as you will discover by engaging in traditional activities such as gukgung, a Korean style of archery that requires great focus and relaxed breathing. You will also try your hand at playing four percussion instruments, each symbolizing an element of nature. This musical genre of samulnori is rooted in Korea’s agricultural history. During breaks between activities, you will enjoy vegetarian temple cuisine. Pungent vegetables such as onions and garlic are avoided because their strong aromas detract from meditation.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain an understanding of monastic life that goes far beyond meditation.
• Practice the martial art of Korean archery at the Heungguksa Buddhist temple.
• Learn the basics of playing percussion instruments that symbolize the elements of nature.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.