Book a trip to Busan if your itinerary to South Korea from Singapore includes a stop to South Korea. No visit to Busan is complete without a trip to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Built on the cliffs over the East Sea, this centuries old Buddhist temple is one of a kind in South Korea. 

The majority of the temples in South Korea are located in the mountains and temples that are next to the ocean are few and far between. This makes Haedong Yonggungsa the most beautiful temple in South Korea.

Haedong Yonggungsa is unforgettable, whether you appreciate the beauty, the history, or take a morning stroll to enjoy the peace. It is important to know about what you can do on the temple grounds and where you can rest your feet before you visit.

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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was built in 1376 in the Goryeo Dynasty and was named Bomun Temple. The name was later changed to Haedong Yonggungsa, meaning ‘Dragon Palace Temple of the East Sea.’ This name was inspired by a vision in which the dragon of the East Sea, which is a representation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, came to the shore.

Most of the Buddhist temples in South Korea are in the mountains, which makes Haedong Yonggungsa unique because it is built on a cliff next to the sea. The sound of crashing waves, the salt air, and the sight of traditional temple architecture set against an open expanse of blue water - it's a combination you simply won't find elsewhere in South Korea.

The temple was dedicated to Gwanseum-bosal, the Goddess of Compassion, whose grand white statue still gazes serenely toward the ocean today. Across the complex, you'll find a layered collection of shrines, pagodas, and statues that reward slow, curious exploration.

Here's some great news for budget-conscious travellers: entry to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is completely free. It's one of the most rewarding no-cost experiences in all of Busan.

The temple is open every day from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., giving you plenty of flexibility on timing. If you're arriving by car, note that on-site parking comes with a small fee.

Since there's no entrance fee, the temple does attract crowds - particularly on weekends and public holidays. Early mornings and quiet weekday afternoons are your best bet for a more relaxed visit.

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Your first encounter with the temple begins even before you reach the main complex. Lining the entrance path is a row of 12 larger-than-life stone statues representing the animals of the Chinese zodiac, each carved in human-like form. Many visitors stop to photograph the animal representing their birth year - it's one of those small, fun moments that makes the visit feel personal.

After passing through the Iljumun Gate, a stairway of 108 steps leads you down through a pine grove toward the coastline. In Buddhism, 108 represents the earthly desires one must overcome to attain enlightenment. The steps are lined with colourful lanterns and small statues, making the descent feel more like a gentle ritual than just a walk.

At the heart of the complex sits Daeungjeon Hall, the main sanctuary, flanked by a three-story pagoda guarded by four stone lions - each said to represent a different human emotion: joy, anger, sadness, and happiness. From here, the path winds past the Yongwangdang Shrine, the Gulbeop Buddhist Sanctum, and a striking granite statue of Gwanseum-bosal facing the open sea. Every turn reveals another detail worth pausing over.

If your schedule allows for an early start, watching the sun rise over the ocean from Haedong Yonggungsa is genuinely spectacular. The temple opens at 5:00 a.m. for exactly this reason, and it's a tradition especially beloved during the Lunar New Year, when locals flock here to greet the first sunrise with prayers and wishes.

Scattered throughout the temple grounds are small shrines and wishing spots, including a coin-toss basin and a dragon-shaped fountain. Tossing a coin while making a wish is a popular tradition here - there's something genuinely charming about joining in, even if you're not particularly superstitious.

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The most practical base for your stay is the Haeundae area - Busan's most popular beachside district, roughly 15-20 minutes from the temple. Here are a few great options you can book on Traveloka:

For a truly luxurious stay, Signiel Busan is hard to beat. Situated in the Haeundae area, this five-star property is within walking distance of Haeundae Beach and features a full-service spa, outdoor and indoor pools, a health club, and multiple dining options. It's the ideal pick for combining a temple visit with a high-end beach retreat.

A reliable mid-range option in Haeundae, Fairfield by Marriott Busan puts you steps from Paradise Casino and a short walk from Haeundae Beach. Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour fitness facilities, and easy access to the Busan Aquarium make it a practical base for exploring the city.

A well-established luxury resort right on Haeundae Beach, Paradise Hotel Busan is a favourite among travellers who want a seamless blend of beach time and cultural day trips - Haedong Yonggungsa included. Ocean views, top-tier amenities, and a central Haeundae location tick all the boxes.

For something more secluded and resort-like, Ananti at Busan Cove is positioned in the Gijang area - closer to the temple itself. It's a premium, design-forward property for travellers who want nature, peace, and proximity to Haedong Yonggungsa without the bustle of central Haeundae.

That's your complete guide to visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Whether you're catching the sunrise over the East Sea, exploring the 108 lantern-lined steps, or simply soaking in the rare sight of a Buddhist temple built right on the coast, this place genuinely delivers.

When you're ready to plan your Busan trip, Traveloka makes it easy to sort your flights, hotels, and activities all in one place - so you can spend less time switching between tabs and more time deciding what to eat at Jagalchi Fish Market. Start planning on the Traveloka app today!