Bulguksa Temple

불국사

Bulguksa Temple (佛國寺) is a representative Buddhist temple in South Korea, located on the western slopes of Tohamsan Mountain in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. Founded in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Seokguram Grotto in 1995. The name Bulguksa means “Land of Buddha,” and the entire structure symbolizes Buddhist utopia and cosmic order.

Key Historical and Architectural Features
*First built in 528 during the reign of King Beopheung of Silla, it underwent extensive reconstruction in the 8th century (742-774) under the leadership of Kim Daeseong, achieving its current form.
*The temple features elegant wooden structures (Daeungjeon Hall, Birojeon Hall, Geungnakjeon Hall, etc.) perched atop a raised stone pedestal. *To enter the Daeungjeon Hall, one must cross the stone steps known as the National Treasures Cheongungyo and Baekungyo (Blue Cloud Bridge and White Cloud Bridge), symbolizing the passage from the secular world to the Buddhist kingdom (the world of enlightenment).

Representative Cultural Properties and Landmarks
*Bulguksa Temple features two representative stone pagodas, Seokgatap (National Treasure No. 21) and Dabotap (National Treasure No. 20), facing each other and embracing the Daeungjeon Hall, making it the pinnacle of Korean Buddhist stone architecture.
*The temple also boasts the Gilt-bronze Seated Amitabha Buddha (National Treasure No. 27), various halls, a five-story stone pagoda, a variety of stepped wooden structures, and beautiful ponds and gardens.

Visiting Information

*Address: 385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
*Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
*Accessible parking, entrance, and restrooms for the disabled

Bulguksa Temple is a famous place to learn about Silla’s architectural beauty and Buddhist worldview. It is particularly renowned for its beautiful scenery during the spring cherry blossoms and fall foliage.
Upon entering Bulguksa Temple, the majestic stone steps known as Cheongungyo and Baekungyo (National Treasure No. 23) connect the main buildings and stone pagoda.

Inside Geungnakjeon Hall, the Gilt-bronze Seated Amitabha Buddha, National Treasure No. 27, is enshrined.

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