Sansa: Buddhist Temples on the Mountains in South Korea

Sansa is a group of Buddhist temples on the mountains that were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. These temples are scattered in rural areas of South Korea and have a long history dating back to the Silla Kingdom (7th century). They are notable for being situated amidst serene natural surroundings. Notable Temples in the Sansa Group 1. Haeinsa Temple • Located in Gayasan National Park • Famous for housing the Tripitaka Koreana (over 80,000 carved wooden blocks of Buddhist scriptures) • Opening hours: 08:30-17:00 2. Beomeosa Temple • Located in Busan • Known for its stunning views and the blend of nature and Buddhist architecture • Opening hours: 05:00-21:00 3. Tongdosa Temple • Located near Ulsan • Unique for having no Buddha statues in the main hall but possessing precious relics such as the Buddha's relics • Opening hours: 08:00-17:00 4. Magoksa Temple • Located in Chungcheongnam-do Province • Notable for its riverside location and mountain views • Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 Highlights of Sansa 1. Beautiful Nature • Each temple is set in natural surroundings such as forests, rivers, and mountains, creating a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation and relaxation. 2. History and Culture • Each temple has unique architecture and a long history, such as housing the Tripitaka Koreana or hosting Buddhist festivals. 3. Tourist Participation • Tourists can join the "Temple Stay" program to learn about the monks' way of life, including meditation, chanting, and eating Buddhist meals. Traveling to Sansa • Haeinsa Temple: Travel from Daegu by bus from Seobu Bus Terminal to Haeinsa Temple Bus Stop. • Beomeosa Temple: Take the Busan Metro to Beomeosa Station, then transfer to bus line 90. • Tongdosa Temple: From Busan, take a bus from Nopo Bus Terminal to Tongdosa Bus Station. • Magoksa Temple: Take a train to Gongju Station, then transfer to a taxi or bus. Visiting Tips • Best Season: Autumn (September-November) is the best time as the changing leaves create a beautiful atmosphere. • Dress Code: Dress modestly and prepare suitable shoes for walking on mountainous terrain. • Times to Avoid: Weekends or festivals may be crowded with tourists. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) Perfect for those seeking a peaceful place to relax and rejuvenate.