Escape the ordinary with a cultural retreat at Golgulsa Temple in Gyeongju. Follow a monk’s daily routine, from sunrise meditation to Sunmudo martial arts training. This immersive stay offers a rare chance to experience Korea’s Buddhist traditions in a peaceful mountain setting.

Itinerary

📍 Gyeongju Station - Golgulsa Temple(approx. 42 km): +/- 50 mins

Welcome to Gyeongju! 

Upon arrival at Gyeongju train station, you will be greeted by a driver and transferred by private car to Golgulsa Temple,  nestled at the base of Hamwolsan Mountain, for a memorable two-night stay.

Golgulsa Temple, renowned as the only cave temple in Korea, offers an immersive experience of the Buddhist monastic lifestyle. It is also the birthplace of Sunmudo, a dynamic form of meditative martial arts practiced by the temple’s monks.

Check-in begins at 14:30. After settling in, guests are introduced to temple life during a short orientation, followed by a Seonmudo demonstration and an introductory Seon meditation session.

The experience continues with a guided Seonmudo training session, offering insight into this traditional discipline that blends Seon meditation, yoga, qigong, gymnastics, and martial arts.

Later, take part in the traditional 108 Prostrations, a deeply meditative practice symbolising humility, reflection, and mental clarity.

Dinner is served at 18:00 in the communal dining hall, fostering mindfulness and gratitude.  All meals follow strict Buddhist temple cuisine principles, simple, seasonal, plant-based dishes prepared to encourage mindfulness and gratitude.

The day concludes with personal reflection time before lights-out at 21:00.

Note: 
- Sunmudo demonstrations are not held on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Sunmudo demonstration is a public viewing for all temple visitors and is not an official templestay activity. If it is cancelled, no alternative programme will be provided.
- The Sunmudo demonstration may be conducted by a resident monk, who may be of non-Korean nationality.
- Overnight stays are in traditional ondol-style accommodation, with sleeping on the floor on a futon. Room selection is not possible, and accommodation is on a shared-room basis.
- Due to the traditional nature of the temple facilities, this temple stay may not be suitable for all mobility needs. Please contact us before booking so we can advise accordingly.

Overnight in Gyeongju

Inclusions:

🍗 Dinner

📍 Golgulsa Temple - Gyeongju Station (approx. 42 km): +/- 50 mins

The day begins early at 05:30. Participate in the morning chanting service, followed by seated meditation, led by resident monks. This is followed by walking meditation, allowing guests to connect deeply with the surrounding mountain environment.

Afterwards, enjoy a wholesome temple breakfast.

Later in the morning, join a Sunmudo and Meditation Session held either near the temple grounds or at a nearby coastal area.

During summer time, the programme may be replaced with a tranquil tea time with a Buddhist Monk, offering gentle insight into Buddhist philosophy, daily monastic life, and mindful conversation.

Following lunch, the official templestay programme concludes with check-out.

In the afternoon, guests may opt to participate in the following optional activitiy: Traditional Archery Experience (additional charge at your own account), offering an opportunity to cultivate focus and balance through a traditional Korean martial discipline.

Dinner and overnight at Golgulsa Temple.

Note: 
- Additional fees may apply for optional activity.

Overnight in Gyeongju

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

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