Golgulsa Temple
골굴사
The only cave temple in Korea, with a rock-carved seated Buddha about 4 m tall on the cliff face. It is famous for Seon martial arts (Seonmudo) demonstrations.
Golgulsa is located on Mount Hamwol in Gyeongju. It was carved in the 6th century by a group led by the sage Gwangyu from India, and it is the only cave temple in Korea. Climbing along the cliff reveals 12 caves and a rock-carved seated Buddha (a Treasure) about 4 m tall at the highest point. Some sections are steep. This is the head temple of Seonmudo, the Korean Buddhist martial art. Demonstrations of Seonmudo are held every afternoon, usually at 3:30 p.m., and are free. The temple also offers temple stays and Seonmudo experiences. Entry is free. Getting there: take bus 100 or 150 from the city center, about 50 minutes, to Andong-ri Station, then walk about 15 minutes. It can be combined with the Tomb of King Munmu and Gameunsa Temple Site on the same route.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–18:00 (Zen martial arts show approx. 15:30; no show Mon)
Nearby sights
- Seokguram Grotto
- Bulguksa Temple
- Gameunsa Temple Site
- Underwater Tomb of King Munmu
- Gyeongju Expo Park & Gyeongju Tower
- Gyeongju World
- Bomun Lake Resort
- Yangnam Columnar Joints