Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa is a small but important temple in the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism – located in the heart of Seoul it seems strangely out of place surrounded by high-rise offices but offers a quiet haven in the midst of the bustling city. On a rather overcast Thursday morning, I paid it a short visit…

Built in 1910 it is famous for its colourful paintings of the Buddha’s life and teachings as well as the 500-year-old white pine tree which stands proudly outside (purportedly brought over from China).

The temple is in active use and at the time I visited gentle chanting could be heard emanating from the main hall with many followers coming and going through the large lattice doors making for a different atmosphere to the temples found in the mountains.

Once a year in May the temple holds an impressive lotus lantern festival to mark Buddha’s birthday which would be well worth seeing if you’re in the vicinity at that time.