[Bbap] Hwaunsa, Temple Stay You Can Reach by Subway from Seoul

Hey there, global friends!🕊️

Like we said in our Golgulsa post, this time we’re diving into a temple stay that sticks much closer to the true spirit of the experience -Hwaunsa.

Hwaunsa is a temple you can easily reach by subway from Seoul, but once you arrive, it feels peaceful and cozy—perfect for a little healing time.

One unique thing about Hwaunsa is that it’s a bhikkhuni temple. Do you know what that means? A bhikkhuni is a female monk, and this temple is run entirely by women.

(Of course, anyone can join the templestay, even if you’re a man!)

I went with a group of female friends, so we chose Hwaunsa on purpose. I guess it just felt a bit more comfortable that way.

So, let’s take a look at every aspect of Hwaunsa.

1. Reservation

Before you can enjoy all the magic… you’ll need to survive one tiny quest first! Remember that post where I explained how to book a temple stay? If you missed it, here’s the link!

https://bbapmoss.com/2025/05/31/bbap-how-to-book-a-temple-stay-in-korea%f0%9f%aa%b7/

However, in the case of Hwaunsa, reservations are only available through the Korean-language website. No need to panic! Just follow along with the steps below — we’ve got you.

On the English website, you can switch to the Korean version by clicking the yellow circle icon on the left side of the screen.
After that, type “hwaunsa” into the search bar to find the Hwaunsa templestay page.

2. Transportation

You can get to Hwaunsa by subway from Seoul—

though I wouldn’t say it’s super close! Still, the route is pretty straightforward:

First, take Line 2 to **Seolleung** Station, then transfer to the Suin–Bundang Line and ride all the way **to Giheung Station.**

From there, hop on the EverLine and get off at Chodang Station. From there, hop on the EverLine and get off at **Chodang** Station.

You can walk to the temple from there.

(If you guessed that the “EverLine” has something to do with Everland—you’re right! It’s an above-ground train built to help people reach the theme park more easily.)

A large stone at the entrance lets you know you’ve arrived at Hwaunsa.

3. Program

We make a Eng schedule for you guys! I’ll give additional explanations following the order of the schedule.

1) Room assignment

You’ll be sharing a room with your own group (and I’m pretty sure men and women are separated).Unlike Golgulsa, you won’t be rooming with strangers. The rooms are small but very clean. There are no beds, but the warm ondol floor will have you sleeping like a baby👶

2) Orientation

During the orientation, you’ll change into temple clothes and take a short walk around the grounds.

Hwaunsa is a small temple, but it’s truly beautiful.

3) Meal

At Hwaunsa, one ‘bosal’—a title used for laypeople who work and help at the temple—Starts her day at 1 a.m. to prepare breakfast.

Each meal may be simple, but you can feel the care and sincerity in every bite.

And the homemade tofu? It pairs perfectly with the salty side dishes.

4) Communal Work

This is free time before bed—you can relax and do whatever you like. I made a bracelet and a lotus lantern!

But the real highlight of this time? The fruit🍅 It’s grown right in the temple’s own garden, and honestly—some of the best I’ve ever had.

By the way, one of the friends I went to this templestay with is actually a TikTok influencer — and I’m super proud of her! She even posted a video from that day we spent together. Go check it out!

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSkvBckK7/

And with that, I’ll wrap up today’s post.

Hwaunsa is truly a quiet and peaceful temple.

I really believe it offers the perfect day of calm for anyone seeking a bit of silent meditation away from the noise of the world.

If you ever have trouble booking a templestay—not just at Hwaunsa—don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re happy to help!