Magoksa Temple 마곡사
Gongju · Magoksa & Yugu · Sights
A Buddhist temple in a wooded valley, inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2018 as one of Korea's mountain monasteries. A stream flows in front, and a stone bridge leads to the inner courtyard with the large main halls. The saying that Magoksa is best in spring comes from the fresh green leaves, and the temple is also loved in autumn.
Besides the buildings, the surroundings are as impressive, with the forest and the trail to its upper hermitages. A temple stay program is offered, with advance booking. Admission may be free or low, and parking is paid.
A bus runs from Gongju terminal but is infrequent; a taxi or rental car is easier, around 40 minutes from town. (Show a driver: 마곡사)
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 마곡사
- Best time to visit
- Spring for fresh leaves, autumn for color; avoid weekend mid-day crowds.
- Pair it with
- Magoksa Solbaram-gil starts right at the temple, and Taehwa Sikdang and Magoksa Seoul Sikdang are right at the gate.
- Great for
- Parents, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- Walk the stream path to the main hall rather than driving to the top. A parking fee applies.
- Reservations
- Reserve a temple stay in advance