 
Headquarters for Chogyejong, the largest sect of Buddhists in Korea, Jogye-sa is
one of the largest temples within Seoul's city limits. Located near
Insa-dong, each year it holds a major
Lantern Festival in honor of Buddha's Birthday (see the
Holidays section for the exact dates
each year). Because of its influence among Korea's Buddhist population, nearby are a number
of shops selling various Buddhist-related paraphernalia, such as clothes, prayer beads, candles,
and cassette tapes of chants.
Lacebark Pine(Pinus bungeana Zucc.)
This pine tree (designated Natural Monument #9) is about 500 years old. It is 10 meters in height and the
circumference of its trunk is 1.67 meters at breast height. This type of pine tree is endemic to northern
China and has clusters of three needles. As it gets older, the bark peels away and the trank turns a grayish
white color. In Korea several treea are found growing in areas of Seoul, Kuyang, and Incheon (Gyeonggi Province);
Miryang (South Gyeongsang Province); Boun (North Chungcheong Province); and Yessan (South Chungcheong
Province). The older and larger onees have been designated natural monuments.
Information: (02) 732-2115 (732-5292 for foreigners)
(For more pictures, please see Chogyesa 2.)
Lantern Festival
In almost every Buddhist temple throughout the country, thousands of devout Buddhists hang lotus
lanterns of various colors in celebration of Buddha's Birthday. They beging hanging the lanterns
several weeks before the actual date, many writing and saying prayers. Many temples also have a
festival to celebrate the birth of Buddha who gave lectures on wisdom and mercy in India over
2,600 years ago. Each year, the most impressive display and Lantern parade is held by Jogye-sa.
Shortly after dark, thousands of people parade down some of Seoul's major streets to Jogye-sa,
carrying lanterns, many of which they made themselves.
Admission: Free
Directions:
Subway line 1, Jonggak Station, exit 2, 10 minutes walking
Subway line 3, Anguk Station, exit 6, 10 minutes walking
|
