Suguska Temple: Seoul’s Golden Temple

Suguska Temple in Northwest Seoul

My obsession with temples continues. Recently Derik and I had the opportunity to jump on the train and head into Seoul for a few hours sans kids. Suguksa Temple had been on my must see list for quite a while, especially after I found out there was a golden temple in Seoul. The first golden temple I visited in person was in Kyoto, the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple and it was a visit I will never forget.

Kinkaku-ji In Kyoto, Japan

Suguksa was built in 1459 after Crown Prince Uigyeong, eldest son of King Sejo passed away at 20 years old. The temple, originally named Jeonginsa, was built near the Crown Prince’s grave to pray for his soul. Later, Jeonginsa was renamed “Suguksa” which means Temple of Protecting the Country and rebuilt at its current location in 1900 after a fire.

This golden temple is located in northwest Seoul in a very quiet neighborhood. We lucked out with a beautiful clear day so the gold shimmered brightly in the sunlight as we walked around the grounds.

Prayer beads in the sunlight

Suguksa Temple, being the only golden Buddhist Temple in Korea is definitely worth a visit. There is currently some construction on new buildings around the property but it does not take away from the experience of this exquisite temple. It is still an active temple so just be mindful of that when you visit.

Address: 8-5 Seooreung-ro 23-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

Phone: 02-356-2001