Places to visit in Busan – Jangansa Temple
#BusanGijang #JangansaTemple #BusanTemples #GijangAttractions #Bulgwangsan #BusanHealingTrip #TempleTravel #BusanTravel
Hello 😊
This is Hidori.
Today I’m sharing a place I find myself visiting at least once every year—a historic temple in Gijang, Busan, where calm comes naturally. If you step just a little outside the city, you’ll find a sanctuary steeped in history and quiet beauty. That place is Jangansa Temple.
Jangansa Temple — Quick Info
- Address: 108 Jangansa-ro, Jangan-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan
- Hours: Open daily / year-round
- Parking: Available (approx. 200 spaces)
- Phone: +82-51-727-2393
Nestled on the slopes of Bulgwangsan (659m), the air is crisp and the scenery is beautiful in every season.
Parking Tips — Even on Weekends
Parking here is impressively generous. With space for around 200 vehicles, I visited on a Saturday between 11:00–12:00 and still parked comfortably.
During peak times—
✔ Buddha’s Birthday
✔ Year-end holidays
✔ New Year’s sunrise season
—lots can fill up, but temporary overflow parking along the access road usually prevents turnarounds.
📌 Tip: Restrooms are located near the far end of the parking lot.
Entrance & Cheonwangmun Gate
A short walk from the lot brings you to the sign reading “Bulgwangsan Jangansa (佛光山長安寺)”.
Beyond a place name, the characters evoke a beautiful meaning:
👉 “A temple where the Buddha’s light dwells in peace for a long time.”
At Cheonwangmun (Gate of the Four Heavenly Kings), take a moment to read the pillars’ calligraphy:
- “People seek awakening through a single mindful thought.”
- “Embrace all beings with the love of a mother for her child.”
Passing this gate symbolizes leaving worldly worries behind as you enter a space of practice and reflection.
Inside the Grounds — Daeungjeon, Laughing Buddha & Sacred Water
Beyond the gate, the Daeungjeon Hall, a three-story stone pagoda, the Laughing Buddha (Podaehwasang), and Gamrosu (sacred water) come into view.
Laughing Buddha & Gamrosu
- The Laughing Buddha is believed to be a manifestation of Maitreya.
- A smiling face (no greed), a large belly (generosity), and a relaxed pose (you’re okay as you are).
- Gamrosu is said to cleanse worries—many pause here to settle the mind.
Sacred Halls with Deep Meaning
🔹 Daeungjeon (Main Hall)
Home to Shakyamuni Buddha, this is the temple’s spiritual center, positioned at the highest and most central point—symbolizing enlightenment as Buddhism’s ultimate aim.
Notice the details:
✔ lattice windows
✔ door handles
✔ the grain of aged pillars
Each carries the touch of time and countless visitors.
🔹 Eungjinjeon (Arhat Hall)
Dedicated to the Buddha’s enlightened disciples. The doors aren’t fully closed—signifying that the path to awakening remains open.
🔹 Myeongbujeon
A hall for prayers for the departed, inviting the living to practice compassion and repentance while wishing peace for loved ones. Quietly grounding.
Protected Maple Tree
One corner of the grounds features a protected maple tree that has shared centuries with the temple. Each season transforms its mood—especially stunning during autumn foliage.
Wonhyo Story Forest
To the left outside the temple lies the Wonhyo Story Forest, a gentle trail tied to the legendary love story of Master Wonhyo and Princess Yoseok. Cross Muncheon Bridge together, and folklore says it leads toward a beautiful future.
Perfect for a light stroll with family or a partner after your visit.
Visit Impressions
I’m not religious, yet I naturally return to Jangansa every year—especially as a new year begins.
Why?
✔ the temple’s quiet rhythm
✔ Bulgwangsan’s embracing terrain
✔ the depth of a millennium-old sanctuary
If you live in Busan, Ulsan, or the Gyeongnam area, or you’re seeking a calm healing escape, Jangansa is an easy, meaningful recommendation.
Near the entrance you’ll also find:
✔ a small souvenir shop
✔ prayer beads
✔ a service to purchase wish candles and have them kept at the temple
—for those who want a more symbolic visit 😊
Hidori’s One-Line Take
Cradled by Bulgwangsan, where time’s depth meets stillness—
the place in Gijang that leaves your heart most at ease: Jangansa Temple.
Jangansa Temple, Busan Gijang attractions, Bulgwangsan temple, Busan temple travel, Gijang places to visit, Busan healing trip, Wonhyo Story Forest, Busan temple 추천