The temple was originally known as Galhwasa before being renamed to Bongnyeongsa in 1796.
The 500-year-old juniper tree on the property is officially protected as a designated city tree.
Bongnyeongsa serves as a significant hub for 'Sachal Eumsik,' the study and preservation of traditional Korean Buddhist temple food.
The temple hosts an annual temple food festival that attracts visitors interested in culinary heritage.
It is one of the few active educational institutions in Korea exclusively dedicated to training Buddhist nuns.
Bongnyeongsa Temple is a prominent nunnery located at the base of Mt. Gwanggyo in Suwon, founded in 1070 during the Goryeo Dynasty by Master Won-gak. It is recognized as a major center for Buddhist education, housing the Bongnyeongsa Buddhist College for nuns. The temple grounds feature the Gyeonggi-do Cultural Heritage Material-designated stone stupa, known as the Panna-jeon, and a 500-year-old juniper tree. The site is notable for its temple food research center, which promotes traditional Korean vegetarian cuisine. Visitors can explore various halls, including the Daeungbo-jeon, which houses a golden triad of Buddha statues. The temple operates a temple stay program that offers structured immersion into monastic life.
The courtyard in front of the Daeungbo-jeon with the historic juniper tree in the background.
Walk the perimeter of the temple grounds to see the historic juniper tree and mountain views.
Check the official website for temple stay availability if you wish to participate in meditative programming.
Respect silent zones, as the temple remains an active academic institution for monastics.
Avoid speaking loudly or taking photographs inside the shrine halls where practitioners may be praying.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple halls, and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
