Haedong Yonggungsa

A rare Buddhist temple right on the sea.

Why go

Haedong Yonggungsa is one of Korea’s few seaside temples, its shrines and pagodas built onto the rocks just above the waves on Busan’s northeast coast.

The mix of sea, cliffs and temple makes it especially striking at sunrise.

Founded in 1376 and rebuilt last century, the temple is reached by a path past twelve zodiac statues and a stairway of 108 steps down to the shrines above the waves. It's at its most magical at sunrise and during Buddha's Birthday, when lanterns line the approach.

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Good to know

• Sunrise and early morning are the most peaceful times.
• There are many steps down to the temple and back up.
• Combine it with the coastal spots on an east-Busan day.
• There's no subway to the gate — take a bus or taxi from Haeundae or Centum. Pair it with the nearby Osiria resort area and Lotte World Adventure Busan.

Nearby

Official info

Travel facts are checked against official sources with a verification date. Prices, schedules and visa rules change — always confirm at the linked official source before you travel.