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Salón Daeungjeon
Daeungjeon Hall is the principal building of Jogyesa Temple in Seoul, its name translating to "Hall of the Great Hero" or "Buddha Hall". Built in 1938 using pine timber from Baekdu Mountain, it houses a remarkable collection of sacred Buddhist images of considerable artistic and spiritual significance. What to see here includes the intricate wooden carvings and traditionally appointed interior, which reflect both architectural craftsmanship and religious devotion central to Korean Buddhism.
Pabellón Geungnakjeon
Geungnakjeon, whose name translates as 'Hall of Supreme Bliss', is a two-storey building located behind the main Daeungjeon hall. Inside, Amitabha Buddha occupies the central position, flanked by Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, on the left, and Ksitigarbha, the bodhisattva said to illuminate darkness and rescue souls from hell, on the right. This arrangement reflects key Buddhist teachings on salvation and divine mercy.
Beomjong Tower
The Beomjong tower is part of Jogyesa temple and houses the four ritual percussion instruments of Korean Buddhism, collectively known as samul. Each morning and afternoon, a resident monk conducts a ceremonial ritual here. Visitors can attend these services to observe traditional Buddhist practices and listen to the distinctive sounds of the sacred instruments used in Korean religious observance.
Ten-Storey Octagonal Pagoda
At the heart of Jogyesa temple complex stands an octagonal ten-storey pagoda designed according to precise Buddhist doctrinal principles. Its architecture and numerology reflect deep spiritual significance within the tradition. Inside, the pagoda houses relics of Buddha brought from Sri Lanka, along with thousands of small statues and sacred texts. A remarkable example of what to see when visiting Seoul's major religious monuments.
Centenarian Sophora
Standing in the centre of Jogyesa temple's courtyard plaza is a venerable 500-year-old sophora tree, also known as the pagoda tree or Japanese false acacia. Dominating the main space, this ancient specimen reaches 25 metres tall with a trunk diameter of four metres, making it one of the temple's most distinctive and revered features. The tree enjoys protected status from Seoul city authorities and holds deep significance for the faithful who visit the temple. What to see: this magnificent example of heritage arboriculture is essential viewing.
Pino blanco centenario
The Centennial White Pine stands outside the main Daeungjeon hall in Seoul, a remarkable specimen over 500 years old and reaching 12 metres in height. Rarely found in South Korea, this species holds exceptional botanical value beyond its impressive age. What to see here is a living monument to centuries of growth, a genuinely singular tree that's become something of a local landmark. Worth a visit if you're exploring the temple grounds and appreciate horticultural history.
Cheonjinbul Statue (Infant Buddha)
Cheonjinbul is a distinctive baby-faced Buddha statue at Jogyesa Temple, revered as the 'Immaculate Buddha'. With its infantile features, the sculpture symbolises the innocence of the world and radiates an approachable charm that sets it apart as one of the temple's most beloved and unique elements. Its gentle expression and accessible appearance have made it a favourite among visitors seeking what to see at this historic Seoul site.
Wooden Buddha (National Treasure)
The Wooden Buddha is a National Treasure sculpture housed in the main hall, Daeungjeon, positioned to the right of the great Buddha triad. Originally from Dogapsa Temple, it is believed to date from the early Joseon Dynasty and stands as a outstanding example of 15th-century Korean Buddhist art. Visitors can see this remarkable piece of cultural heritage when visiting the temple.
- 1.Salón Daeungjeon
- 2.Pabellón Geungnakjeon
- 3.Beomjong Tower
- 4.Ten-Storey Octagonal Pagoda
- 5.Centenarian Sophora
- 6.Pino blanco centenario
- 7.Cheonjinbul Statue (Infant Buddha)
- 8.Wooden Buddha (National Treasure)
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