There are few opportunities in life to truly view the world from a completely different perspective. The International Lotus Lantern Meditation Center in Ganghwa, near Seoul, provides a comfortable and hands-on Buddhist experience. The monks speak English and guide participants through the activities. There will also be a lot of free time to enjoy the grounds and speak one-on-one with the people who live at the Temple.
The Basic Rundown
- 24 hour Temple Stay
- sleep in rooms of 2-3 people, separated into male and female
- wake up at 3:45 am for morning chants
- lights out at 9:30 pm
- tea available at any time
- all meals are vegetarian
- Prices can range from donation to 80,000 won (about $80US), with Lotus Lantern falling at the 50,000 won range
- Bring toiletries and loose, comfortable, and conservative clothing in case they don’t have enough uniforms
- Fill out an online application in advance
Activities at Lotus Lantern
Upon arrival, participants are assigned a room and given a schedule. They are then given a uniform and offered tea, then given free time. For dinner and Temple, either a bell or a wooden stick will be hit. On day one, a small tour is given, then an evening chant, dinner, and a meditation session with a monk. On the second day, participants wake up early for an hour long chanting session (which includes much chanting and bowing). There will be another meditation session on the second day, a walk to a local shrine, and a tea ceremony with a monk. At Lotus Lantern, there is also a calligraphy class. There is a total of three meals and three chanting sessions at the Temple.
Temple Etiquette
While it is fun to enjoy and experience another’s way of life, it is also important to be respectful and not interrupt or accidentally insult those who are graciously allowing visitors to participate.
- Participants can take pictures, but not inside the main Buddha Hall
- When eating, all food must be eaten, with nothing left on the plates
- If others are mediating, whether they be sitting or walking, be as quiet as possible
- Clean dishes, teacups, and sleeping area when finished
- Do not talk during meals
Participants just need to remember that they are visitors peering into others' lives and beliefs, and be mindful of the fact. While monks and staff understand that visitors may not know all of the ends and outs, they expect visitors to respect and enjoy the experience, and are happy to answer any questions.
The temple has a very comfortable and open atmosphere, and it is enchanting hearing the monks chant. A Temple Stay Program is a valuable and relaxing cultural experience.
Sandra Causey - Sandra Causey is a lifelong learner and traveler. She has written for her University Newspaper, The Chanticleer, contributing articles and ...
