Discounted temple stay program for foreigners returns

Two guests participate in a tea ceremony during their temple stay at Mihwang Temple in Haenam, South Jeolla Province, June 19, 2017. Korea Times file

Looking for a serene weekend getaway for less? Or curious to try a temple stay during a visit to Korea?

The Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism (CCKB) is offering a special temple stay promotion for 1,500 foreigners living in or visiting Korea for 30,000 won ($22) until Oct. 31, discounted from the usual minimum price of 50,000 won per night.

The program, offered on a first-come, first-served basis, allows participants to enjoy a temple stay at 21 sites nationwide.

The list includes some of the most popular temple stay destinations among foreign visitors: Jogye Temple in Seoul; Golgul Temple in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province; and Naksan and Woljeong temples in Gangwon Province.

Other participating sites include Myogak and Hwagye temples in Seoul; Donghwa Temple in Daegu; Beomeo Temple in Busan; Jeondeung Temple in Incheon; Jikji Temple in Gimcheon, North Gyeongsang Province; and Magok Temple in Gongju, South Chungcheong Province.

New additions this year are Daeheung Temple in Haenam, South Jeolla Province and Sudeok Temple in Yesan, South Chungcheong Province.

“We have all the famous temples on the list and hope people will enjoy their experience,” a CCKB official said.

Interest in temple stay programs has been growing among both Koreans and international visitors. On discussion site Reddit, multiple topic threads feature travelers sharing their temple stay experiences in Korea, with Jogye, Hwagye, Magok, Jikji and Golgul Temples often recommended for their tranquil atmosphere, convenient locations and English-language services.

According to the CCKB, the number of foreign participants has rebounded after a pandemic slump. Last year, about 78,000 non-Koreans joined a temple stay program, and as of Aug. 11 this year, around 49,000 have already taken part.

To make reservations or find more information, visit www.templestay.com.