Templestay in Korea for foreigners

Etiquette + what to expect

• Early start, early sleepThe day often begins with a pre-dawn ceremony (yebul) and ends early in the evening. You don't have to attend every pre-dawn session, but plan to sleep early — there is no nightlife.
• Phones surrendered or silencedMany programs ask you to hand in or switch off your phone. The point is to disconnect. Tell anyone who needs you that you'll be offline overnight.
• Temple clothes are providedYou'll wear loose temple uniform (usually grey/maroon) the whole stay — provided on arrival. Bring only modest underlayers, warm socks (floors + halls are cool), and toiletries.
• Barugongyang = waste nothingThe formal monastic meal (발우공양) follows a strict no-waste ritual: take only what you'll eat, and clean your bowl with water + a piece of radish/kimchi, then drink it. Leaving food is a serious breach.
• Temple food is vegetarian (no 오신채)All meals are Buddhist vegetarian — no meat, and no garlic/onion/chives/leek/green-onion (오신채). Flag allergies in advance; portions are simple and healthy.
• Silence + bowing etiquetteKeep your voice low, especially at dawn/night. Put hands together (합장) and bow slightly when greeting monks or entering halls. Step over thresholds, never on them.
• Modesty + shoes offCover shoulders and knees outside the uniform; remove shoes before entering any hall. No public displays of affection. Sleeping quarters are usually separated by gender.
• 108 bows are optional but iconicThe 108 prostrations (절) are physically demanding — go at your own pace and stop if needed. If your knees object, sit out respectfully.