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Iljumun Gate
Iljumun Gate marks the formal entrance to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, serving as the threshold between the secular and sacred realms. The gate's two pillars are adorned with four golden dragons facing both outward and inward towards the temple complex. Traditional dancheong decorative painting in five colours adorns the structure, displaying the characteristic vibrant patterning typical of Korean temple architecture. What to see here includes these intricate dragon motifs and the ornate paintwork that announces your arrival at this significant religious site.
Mireukjeon Hall of Gulbeopdang
Gulbeopdang, also known as the Mireukjeon Hall, is one of the principal structures within Haedong Yonggungsa temple in Busan. Located to the right of the Daeungjeon Hall, it houses and honours a seated stone statue of Mireukbul Buddha. This hall serves as an important devotional space within the temple complex, showcasing traditional Buddhist architecture and religious significance.
Pabellón Daeungjeon
Daeungjeon is the main hall of Haedong Yonggungsa temple in Busan, positioned directly in front of the reliquary pagoda. The building's interior and exterior feature elaborate traditional dancheong decorative painting, with intricate wooden carvings and artwork depicting flora, fauna and dragon imagery throughout. What to see here includes these striking religious artworks and the architectural details characteristic of Korean Buddhist temples.
Reliquary Pagoda (three storeys with four lions)
The Pagoda of Relics stands as a three-storey stone structure overlooking the sea in Busan, distinguished by four stone lions positioned at each corner of its base. These lions traditionally represent joy, anger, sorrow and happiness. Inside the pagoda are housed seven Buddhist reliquaries, brought from Sri Lanka, which are considered sacred bones. This combination of architectural and religious significance makes it a notable feature within the temple complex.
Seven-Storey Pagoda
The seven-storey pagoda stands at Haedong Yonggungsa temple in Busan, serving as the first major structure visitors encounter upon entry. Located beyond the Avenue of the Twelve Zodiac Animals and before the 108-step staircase, this pagoda functions as both a welcoming landmark and protective monument. It marks the beginning of the sacred temple grounds and sets the tone for the spiritual journey ahead through the temple complex.
Haesu Gwaneum Daebul Statue
The Haesu Gwaneum Daebul is a striking 10-metre stone statue overlooking the sea at the highest point of the Haedong Yonggungsa temple complex in Busan. Facing out towards the horizon, it depicts the bodhisattva of compassion in her coastal manifestation and marks the culmination of the temple's spiritual pilgrimage route. This is the largest stone statue of its kind in South Korea, commanding impressive views of the surrounding seascape.
Gulbeop Sanctuary Cave
Gulbeop Sanctuary is a modest Buddhist shrine carved directly into the rock, located to the right of the main Haedong Yonggungsa temple. Its intimate and contemplative character sets it apart from the broader complex, offering visitors a more personal and introspective spiritual experience. What to see here is the distinctive cave shrine setting, which provides a quieter alternative to the busier temple areas.
Yongwangdang (Sanctuary of the Dragon King)
Yongwangdang is a shrine dedicated to the Dragon King within Haedong Yonggungsa temple, one of the most revered deities in Korean Buddhist tradition. Perched on the seafront, it holds particular significance for fishermen, sailors and coastal communities seeking protection and prosperity from the sea's unpredictable forces. The clifftop setting overlooking the water makes this a spiritually important place to visit in Busan.
Samcheong Pond with Statues of the 16 Arhats
The Samcheong Pond sits at the heart of Haedong Yonggungsa temple, ringed by sixteen stone statues of Arhats—Buddhist disciples who achieved nirvana. This sculptural arrangement represents one of the temple's most significant features, merging water and Buddhist imagery of enlightenment and devotion. Visit what to see is one of Busan's most compelling spiritual and artistic focal points.
108-Step Staircase
The 108-step stone staircase forms the principal approach to Haedong Yonggungsa temple's main complex, descending from the Iljumun gate to the worship buildings positioned by the sea. Stone lanterns flank the entire flight, creating an impressive ceremonial corridor with considerable aesthetic and spiritual significance. What to see here is the careful interplay between architecture and natural landscape as you make your way down to the waterfront temple.
Zodiac Statues Avenue
The Avenue of the Zodiac Statues forms the approach to Haedong Yonggungsa temple, lined with twelve stone figures representing the animals of the Chinese zodiac. These sculptures serve a protective function, believed to ward off malevolent spirits before visitors enter the sacred grounds. What to see here are both the intricate carvings and the temple complex itself, making this a meaningful entrance to one of Busan's most significant religious sites.
- 1.Iljumun Gate
- 2.Mireukjeon Hall of Gulbeopdang
- 3.Pabellón Daeungjeon
- 4.Reliquary Pagoda (three storeys with four lions)
- 5.Seven-Storey Pagoda
- 6.Haesu Gwaneum Daebul Statue
- 7.Gulbeop Sanctuary Cave
- 8.Yongwangdang (Sanctuary of the Dragon King)
- 9.Samcheong Pond with Statues of the 16 Arhats
- 10.108-Step Staircase
- 11.Zodiac Statues Avenue
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