Haedong Yonggungsa — The Temple by the Sea★★★
The Haedong Yonggungsa (해동용궁사) is one of the few Buddhist temples in the world located directly on the seashore — perched on rocks above the surf, with the Pacific as a backdrop. While most Korean temples are hidden in the mountains, this one spectacularly sits on the cliffs of Busan's east coast.
Founded in 1376, the temple was destroyed in the Imjin War (Japanese invasion 1592) and rebuilt in 1930. The descent over 108 stone steps (one for each earthly suffering in Buddhism) leads down to the buildings by the water. Once at the bottom, a breathtaking view awaits: the golden-red temple buildings, the rugged cliffs, the turquoise sea, and often fishermen on the rocks below.
On the grounds stand a 12-meter-high gilded Buddha, a dragon figure at the stairway, and the "Haesugwaneumdaebul" — a Buddha said to grant wishes. Legend has it: Whoever prays sincerely here will have at least one wish fulfilled.
The temple is especially magical at sunrise — the sun rises directly from the sea behind the temple. On New Year's Day, thousands of Koreans come here to witness the first sunrise of the year.
💡 Tipp
Come at sunrise (around 5:30–6:30 am depending on the season) — it's magical and the temple is almost empty. During the day, it gets very crowded. Bus No. 181 from Haeundae goes directly to the temple. At the entrance, there's a ceremony where you can light a lotus lantern for ₩1,000.
