By Ines Min
Staff reporter
For those who swing more toward chants than psalms, the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism ― the largest branch of Buddhism in the country ― is offering a series of special summer programs.
Often located in the escapes of mountain scenery, Buddhist temples were once unwanted sites, hidden far and largely away from the eyes of the public. Today, these remote locales serve as peaceful getaways from the stress of daily city life.
Templestays originally began as additional accommodations during the 2002 World Cup, co-hosted by South Korea and Japan. It has since evolved to become a unique Korean experience, transcending both language and cultural barriers.
If your Korean has yet to be mastered, a variety of temples are hosting special programs for foreigners and expats. Conducted in English (or, bilingually), these templestays are perfect for those looking for an experience in the comfort of one's native tongue.
Geumsan Temple in Gimje, North Jeolla Province, is offering a weekend templestay from July 17 to 18 for 60,000 won (restricted to foreigners). The program includes a variety of events, from a discussion with a monk to Seon (Zen) meditation, and threading a 108-bead prayer necklace. Visit www.geumsansa.org.
Mihwang Temple in South Jeolla Province is providing foreigners interested in an intensive experience with an 8-day silent retreat. The program will focus on Seon meditation, with plenty of scenic walks and tranquility. The templestay is free, but donations in the form of Buddhist alms are welcome; visit www.mihwangsa.com.
For those looking to mingle with Korean crowds, but still need English help, check-out the summer programs at Beomeo Temple in Busan. A variety of activities ― from ceremonial services to the 108 prostrations ― can be experienced here in 2-day programs. Visit www.beomeo.kr; templestays are 50,000 won.
Families are not to be left out of the Buddhist experience and a variety of templestays cater to the family unit.
Daeheung Temple in South Jeolla Province is holding a 5-day program from Aug. 7 to 11, where families can practice the traditions of the tea ceremony, hike along mountain trails and practice Seon meditation. Visit www.daeheungsa.co.kr; prices vary according to number of family members.
Bongin Temple in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province, will hold performances from young artists during their family program from Aug. 28 to 29. Music and dance pieces can be seen along with traditional activities during the 2-day program for 50,000 won. Visit www.bonginsa.net.
If a seaside escape is what the family needs, Jangyuk Temple in North Gyeongsang Province will provide walks along the beach and Seon meditation at their 2-day templestay. Participants will also have an opportunity to leave a prayer by piling stones upon one another; visit www.jangyuksa.kr; costs 100,000 won.
Special programs just for children can also be found. Haein Temple in South Gyeongsang Province is holding a 2-night, 3-day templestay for elementary school students. The Haein Temple is one of the three jewel temples of Korean Buddhism. A program organized for youth groups will be held July 21 to 23 and July 25 to 27, for a unique opportunity to peek into the religion for youths. For more information, visit www.haeinsa.or.kr.