Wanderyn
Donghwasa Temple
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · KR

Donghwasa Temple

Getting around: From downtown Daegu, take bus 401 (or a connecting route) toward Palgongsan; the ride takes roughly 40-50 minutes and drops near the temple entrance.
Hours: Open daily, roughly sunrise to sunset (approximately 5am-8pm, seasonal); no regular closure day.

Donghwasa is a large, historic temple complex on the slopes of Palgongsan, notable for its towering seated stone Buddha statue (Yaksayeoraebul) near the entrance, one of the largest of its kind in Korea, built in the 1990s as a modern addition to a temple with roots back to the Silla dynasty. The older halls further up the grounds retain a more traditional temple atmosphere.

Many visitors combine Donghwasa with the Palgongsan cable car for mountain views, since both share the same general access route from Daegu.

Donghwasa Temple FAQs

What's the giant Buddha statue near the entrance?

That's the modern Tongil Yaksayeorae Daebul, a large seated Buddha statue built in the 1990s symbolizing hopes for Korean reunification.

How old is the temple itself?

The temple's origins trace back to the Silla dynasty, though most standing buildings are later reconstructions after various fires and wars.

Can I combine it with the Palgongsan cable car?

Yes, both are on the same mountain and commonly visited together.

Is entry free?

Yes, entry to Donghwasa is free.

How much walking is involved?

A moderate amount, with some uphill sections between the entrance, the giant Buddha, and the older temple halls.

Your travel graph
Ready to plan Donghwasa Temple?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.

Reviews/Comments

No comments yet — be the first.