Bulguksa (Bulguk Temple)

Description:

• Perhaps the most famous of South Korea's many temples (thanks to its location and its UNESCO World Heritage designation), Bulguksa was originally built in 528 during the Shilla Dynasty. King Kim Dae-Seong had it erected in honor of his parents. Although the original wooden structures have all since been rebuilt (between 1604 and 1805, the temple was renovated no fewer than 40 times), the stone bridges, the stairways, and the pagodas that make up the rest of the complex are original. The most recent rebuilding and repairs were done in 1973 and the buildings do show signs of wear and tear. Still, the complex and its structures are impressive in design and are a striking testament to the skill of the architects. Try to visit the site in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hordes of schoolchildren who get bussed in for field trips.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010