봉은사, or if your a pale face like me Bongeunsa. It's one of numerous Buddhist temples in Korea, but Bongeunsa is unique in that 1.) It's in the middle of Seoul and 2.) about 20 mintes from where I live.
During the Joseon Dynasty, Buddhism in Korea was severely repressed. However, with the support of Queen Munjeong, who revived Buddhism in Korea for a short time in the mid-16th century - Bongeunsa became the main temple of the Korean Seon (Zen) sect of Buddhism in 1551. From 1552-1564 it was the center of the Buddhist National Exam. In other words, Bongeunsa is kind of a big deal and having it just around the corner is pretty sweet.
It also happens to be across the street from the COEX Mall, the largest shopping center in Seoul. Bongeunsa is completely surrounded by metropolis Seoul. The contrast is sharp between the bustling ulta-modern city and the quaint timeless calm of Bongeunsa, even if you arn't Buddhist it's classical far eastern architecture is downright incredible, with lots of wood carvings, statues and gardens. When the weather clears up I'm gonna go back and take some more pictures. Hopefully I'll have a slideshow for y'all. Until then take care.
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