Join our Retreat
Temple Stay
The Temple Stay program is a cultural experience designed to open the door to Buddhist practice. It is perfect for beginners, families, or travelers who wish to step out of their busy routines and breathe the clear air of the mountain.
Unlike our intensive retreats, the Temple Stay offers a more guided introduction to life at Buddha Forest. You will not just observe the monks; you will live with us, eat with us, and wake with us.
The Experience: Culture & Practice
The Ceremony of Eating (Baru Gongyang): You will learn the traditional monastic way of eating using four wooden bowls (Baru). This is not just a meal; it is a meditation on gratitude. We eat in silence, reflecting on the effort of the farmers and nature that brought this food to us, ensuring not a single grain of rice is wasted.
Tea & Dialogue (Cha-dam): One of the highlights of the Temple Stay is the tea ceremony. Over a warm cup of wild tea, you will have the chance to sit with a Sunim (monk/nun) in a relaxed atmosphere. This is a time to ask questions about life, happiness, and suffering that you might not be able to ask elsewhere.
Meditation & Chanting: You will join the morning and evening chanting (Yebul), letting the sound of the bell and the rhythm of the chant wash away your distracting thoughts. You will also receive basic instruction in Anapanasati (Breath Meditation), giving you a practical tool to calm your mind that you can take home with you.
Who Can Join?
The Temple Stay is open to everyone—regardless of religion or background. Whether you are looking for a "Digital Detox," a cultural immersion, or simply a quiet weekend to rest, you are welcome here. We provide comfortable temple clothing for your stay, so you only need to bring a sincere heart and a willingness to follow the temple etiquette.
