In addition to being the second largest city in Korea, Busan's location on the sea means that it offers plenty of scenic views. 

One of the most popular sights is accessible by bus from Haeundae Beach, namely the beautiful Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. 

As one of the few temples in Korea located by the sea, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a popular destination for travelers to Busan. 

We want to share with you our visit to this temple to help you plan for yours.

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Information

Address: 부산 기장군 기장읍 용궁길 86
86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan

Hours: 05:00 until sunset

Entrance Fee: Free

Transportation: 40-minute ride on Bus #181 in front of exit 7 of Haeundae Station

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Our Visit

This is the entrance to the temple.

It is bustling with visitors and vendors. 

There's even an emart24 convenience store here, which is perfect if you need to buy some extra water on a hot summer day.

Don't feel that you need to rush to reach the temple. 

Instead, take in the sights and discover what the street vendors here have to offer as you make your way along this winding road to the temple.

There are so many things to see as you make your way to the temple. 

Before you know it, you will arrive at the entrance of the temple where you will see statues of the twelve zodiac animals. 

From here, you only need to go through the gate and walk down the 108 stairs to reach Haedong Yonggungsa Temple! 

Because of its location on a cliff by the sea, you will need to go up and down a number of stone steps in order to reach the temple. 

Please plan for this accordingly.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is packed with people both during the week and on weekends.

If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend that you go early in the morning.

After making your way down the stairs, you will be welcomed by this picturesque view of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. 

One of the few temples in Korea by the sea, it was build in 1376 and was originally called Bomunsa Temple. 

The temple was later destroyed by the Japanese during the Imjin War but was restored in the 1930s.

You can hear the sound of the ocean waves as you take in the beautiful sights!

Up until not long ago, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was not that well known among tourists. 

However, once stunning pictures of the temple and the surrounding seashore started to emerge, people from around the world began to add it as a must go-to destination in Korea.

The sea surrounds the temple on three sides, and the sunrise and sunset here are sights to behold. 

On your way across the bridge toward Daeungbojeon Hall in the center of the temple grounds, you can see several stone sculptures. 

After you cross this bridge, make sure to look back to take in another view of the sea.

Although Haedong Yonggungsa is located by the sea, it has never experienced any major natural disasters over the years. 

Some people believe this is because a divine power is protecting and blessing this scenic place.

The clear water can look enticing on a hot summer day, but be careful not to go beyond the fence or fall down as you enjoy the views.

Up close, the beauty of the temple is breathtaking. 

Although there are plenty of people around, there seems to be a mutual respect among visitors not to disturb the peace of this place.

Since it takes a while to get to the temple, we recommend that you make the most of your visit, spending at least a couple of hours here to explore and take pictures. 

Although there are plenty of things to see, there are a limited number of spots from where you can get that perfect shot.

If you're not a fan of crowds, you might want to brace yourself before visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. 

Early mornings can be less crowded, but you will still have to share the temple grounds with other early bird visitors. 

We think the beauty of this temple though makes up for the crowds!

How To Get There

After you get off of Bus #181 at the Yonggungsa stop (용궁사 정류장), walk back about 50 meters in the direction your bus came from.

Look for this sign for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. 

From here, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the temple.

You can also choose to take a taxi to this temple.

Although it's more expensive, this might be a good option for you if there are a few of you to share the taxi fare. 

Please note that it might be difficult to find an available taxi for the trip back.

We hope you enjoyed reading about our visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

If you visit Busan, we highly recommend that you visit this beautiful temple.

For more attractions in Busan, please click here.