Understand

Guinsa, the headquarters of the Cheontae school of Buddhism, is a remarkable temple situated in a narrow valley, surrounded by majestic mountains. Once a mighty and influential institution, Cheontae faced a decline in popularity over the years. However, in 1945, Sangwol Wongak re-established the sect, which now boasts a substantial following of two million devoted followers. What sets Guinsa apart is its modernity. Unlike many other temples in Korea, Guinsa is relatively new, having been founded in 1945 as the main temple for the revitalized Cheontae sect. This freshness brings a dazzling appeal, with everything gleaming and pristine. In the past, the temple faced destruction during the Korean War, but its first building was reconstructed in 1966, and since then, Guinsa has continued to expand, captivating visitors with its beauty and serenity.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first and perhaps most famous Korean dish is Kimchi Jjigae, a spicy stew made from fermented vegetables (most commonly napa cabbage), with sliced pork, tofu, and chilli peppers added for extra kick. It's a comforting yet fiery dish that showcases the depth of Korean flavours.

Bibimbap is another wildly renowned Korean dish which translates directly to 'mixed rice'. It's typically served as a bowl of warm, steamed white rice, topped with sautéed vegetables, sliced meat (often beef or chicken), a fried egg, and chilled gochujang (red pepper paste) sauce that's stirred into the dish just before eating. This versatile meal can be enjoyed with an array of side dishes, making it both hearty and customizable.

Jajangmyeon is a delightful noodle dish starring chewy somen noodles drenched in a savory black bean sauce, typically garnished with julienned cucumber, crispy seaweed, and sesame seeds. While it often features seafood like squid, octopus, or shrimp, there are also vegetarian versions available. This hearty meal is both filling and satisfying, reflecting its Chinese origin while embracing a uniquely Korean twist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing