Templestay – Geumsansa Temple (Gimje, Jeollabuk-do)

Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, Jeollabuk-do.

Introduction to Temple

Geumsansa Temple is located in Gimje, Jeollabuk-do, and it was first built in either 599 A.D. or 600 A.D. When it was first built, it was rather unassuming; however, in 762 A.D., and under the guidance of the monk Jinpyo (8th century), Geumsansa Temple was rebuilt and expanded over a six year period. Geumsansa Temple underwent numerous changes during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Then during the Joseon Dynasty and the Imjin War (1592-1598), Geumsansa Temple was destroyed by the invading Japanese after the temple was used as a training ground for the Righteous Army. The restoration of Geumsansa Temple began in 1601, and it was completed over a thirty year process in 1635. Most of the temple buildings, including the rebuilt Mireuk-jeon Hall date back to this period of time. And it’s because of these efforts that Geumsansa Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Korea. In total, Geumsansa Temple is home to one National Treasure and ten additional Korean Treasures.

As for the Templestay program at Geumsansa Temple, they conduct two different programs. The first is a two hour program focused on specific temple activities, while the other program, which is a one night, two day program, focuses on rest and recovery through various activities.

For more on Geumsansa Temple.

Directions

To get to Geumsansa Temple, you’ll first need to get to the Jeonju Express Bus Terminal. From here, you’ll need to take Bus #79 to get to Geumsansa Temple. The bus first leaves this terminal at 6:24 a.m., and they stop running at 10:45 p.m. This bus leaves the terminal every twenty-five mintues. Also, you can catch a bus from the Gimje Intercity Bus Terminal or Gimje Station. You’ll need to find Bus #5, which will bring you directly to Geumsansa Temple.

Templestay Programs

Geumsansa Temple provides two Templestay programs at their temple. The Daily Templestay Program is a two hour experience focusing on relaxation. And the other Templestay program at Geumsansa Temple is the I Want to Rest Program, which is a one night, two day program focused on rest. Here are their programs:

A: Daily Templestay Program

The Daily Templestay Program is a two hour experience from Tuesday to Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The exact schedule of activities may vary, but some of the activities that a visitor can expect are making 108 prayer beads, learning meditation, and/or a temple tour.

B: I Want to Rest Program

The I Want to Rest Program is a one night, two day experience. It runs everyday of the week, and the exact schedule of activities may vary. However, some of the activities one can expect are a temple tour, making 108 prayer beads, 108 bows, meditation, joining a Buddhist ceremony, and/or a hike up Mt. Moaksan.