Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple

Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple

Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple are located in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province. The Seokguram Grotto was built in the 8th century AD and houses a monumental Buddha statue facing the sea toward Potalaka. The surrounding images of deities, bodhisattvas, and worshippers, carved as reliefs on the ceiling and pedestal, are remarkably lifelike and intricate, and are considered masterpieces of Buddhist art in the Far East.

Bulguksa Temple is the largest and most magnificent Buddhist temple in the Gyeongju area. Renowned as the most exquisite Buddhist temple in Korea, it has been designated as National Treasure No. 1 by the Korean government—not because of its size or age, but due to its outstanding Silla architecture and numerous precious Buddhist national treasures. All the wooden structures in the temple are reconstructions from later periods, and the current temple complex is only one-tenth of its original size, yet it retains a strong classical beauty.

The architecture and carvings of Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple fully showcase the profound richness of Silla culture and are treasured gems in Korea’s historical and cultural heritage.

Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple

Must-visit reason: Korea’s most exquisite grotto and Buddhist temple

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: Korea

Province/State: North Gyeongsang Province

City: Gyeongju