Hello, everyone! May is a month that enriches our hearts with its vibrant greenery. Have you heard the news that, especially with Buddha's Birthday approaching, various parts of downtown Seoul are being adorned with colorful lotus lanterns? These lotus lanterns, lamps of wisdom and compassion that illuminate the darkness, carry a profound meaning: commemorating the birth of Sakyamuni Buddha and praying for peace and well-being. Even if you're not a Buddhist, why not follow these beautiful lights, take a moment to compose your thoughts, and make your own wishes? Although the Lantern Parade has passed, the festive atmosphere continues until May 25th, the substitute holiday, making it a wonderful outing option for this long weekend!

Lantern Hotspots Lighting Up Downtown Seoul: Where Should We Go?

If you want to fully enjoy the spirit of Buddha's Birthday without traveling far, seek out the city temples easily accessible by subway. The first place we recommend is Jogyesa Temple, located in Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu. The colorful lotus lanterns filling the main courtyard of the Daeungjeon Hall offer a vibrant sight during the day and beautifully illuminate the heart of Jongno in the evening. Notably, the Traditional Lantern Exhibition is being held not only at Jogyesa's Ujeong Park but also at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Memorial Hall, Bongeunsa Temple, and along the Cheonggyecheon Stream. After admiring the lanterns at Jogyesa, walking along the grand ceremonial lanterns that lead to Cheonggyecheon Stream makes for a perfect short evening stroll!

In Gwanghwamun Square, the Buddha's Birthday Celebration Lantern Tower stands tall. This year's lantern tower is a traditional hanji lantern modeled after the 8-story, 13-sided stone pagoda of Pohyonsa Temple in Mt. Myohyang, North Korea, with contemplative Bodhisattva lanterns installed on either side. When night lighting is added, it harmonizes with the urban nightscape around Gwanghwamun, creating a truly unique spectacle. Don't forget to capture the lantern tower and the lights of Gwanghwamun in photos from the open square!

For your information, on May 24th, Buddha's Birthday itself, at 10 AM, celebration ceremonies will be held at Jogyesa and other temples nationwide. If you wish to quietly enjoy the lantern scenery, we recommend visiting in the late afternoon or evening after the ceremonies have concluded.

Bongeunsa Temple: Tranquil Lights Amidst Gangnam's Concrete Jungle

Located in the bustling heart of Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Bongeunsa Temple is like an oasis in the city. Though surrounded by large shopping malls and towering buildings, the moment you step into its grounds, you'll feel a serene atmosphere, as if you've entered a different world. The lotus lanterns strung between the temple buildings and trees add to the temple's charm during the day, and after sunset, they illuminate various parts of the grounds with their soft glow. The unique scenery where traditional temple lanterns and Gangnam's building nightscape can be seen together is Bongeunsa's special charm.

On Buddha's Birthday itself, various events such as the Compassion Sharing Market, Temple Culture Festival, and Five-Color Thread Sharing Event are scheduled, and in the evening, a celebration lighting ceremony and performances will follow, offering an even richer experience. With COEX, shopping malls, exhibition spaces, and restaurants nearby, it's also a great place to stop by before or after a meal or other activities, so why not add Bongeunsa to your Gangnam outing plans?

Lantern Outing Essentials! (Pro Tips Revealed)

• Optimal Viewing Time: To fully appreciate the diverse charm of the lanterns, it's best to explore them slowly starting from dusk, rather than waiting until it's completely dark. The scenery is beautiful both when the sky still has some light and when darkness has fully settled.
• Prepare for the Heat: Even in May, it can be quite warm during the day. You might sweat a lot while walking, so it's a good idea to bring water in advance and drink it periodically. If the sun is strong, plan ahead for places where you can take a short break.
• Comfortable Shoes are a Must: While subway access is excellent, you'll be standing and walking for extended periods within the temple grounds and exhibition areas. It's best to wear comfortable sneakers rather than high heels.
• Bring a Light Outerwear: Evenings can feel cooler than daytime. Especially within temple grounds, where there are many trees, a cool breeze might blow, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or cardigan.
• Observe Etiquette: When viewing lanterns up close or taking photos, please pause briefly at the side so as not to obstruct the passage of others. If you are sensitive to incense smells or smoke, consider using routes outside the main crowded areas of the temple grounds.

This Buddha's Birthday holiday, create special memories amidst the beautiful lantern lights of downtown Seoul! We wish your hearts to be filled with peace and well-being.