Martial Arts Monks: A Golgulsa Templestay

On arrival in Gyeongju, a driver greets you and transfers you by private car to Golgulsa Temple, nestled at the base of Hamwolsan Mountain. Renowned as Korea's only cave temple, Golgulsa is also the birthplace of Sunmudo, a dynamic form of meditative martial arts practised by the temple's monks. Check-in begins at 14:30, followed by a short orientation, a Sunmudo demonstration and an introductory Seon meditation session. The afternoon continues with a guided Sunmudo training session, blending Seon meditation, yoga, qigong, gymnastics and martial arts, followed by the traditional 108 Prostrations, a meditative practice symbolising humility, reflection and mental clarity. Dinner is served at 18:00 in the communal dining hall, following strict Buddhist temple cuisine principles: simple, seasonal, plant-based dishes. The day concludes with personal reflection time before lights-out at 21:00. Overnight at Golgulsa Temple.

The day begins early at 05:30 with the morning chanting service, followed by seated meditation led by resident monks, then walking meditation through the surrounding mountain grounds. Enjoy a wholesome temple breakfast, then join a Sunmudo and Meditation Session held near the temple grounds or at a nearby coastal area (in summer, this may be replaced with a tranquil tea time with a Buddhist monk, offering insight into Buddhist philosophy and monastic life). Following lunch, the official templestay programme concludes with check-out. In the afternoon, guests may opt to join a Traditional Archery Experience at their own expense, cultivating focus and balance through a traditional Korean martial discipline. Transfer back to Gyeongju for onward travel.