Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

해동용궁사

A temple built on the rocks where the waves break

Hours

Open early morning to evening (check exact times locally)

Tickets

Free (paid parking)

Address

86 Yonggung-gil, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun

Most Korean temples hide in the mountains; this one clings to a sea cliff. Past the line of zodiac statues and down 108 steps, the view suddenly opens onto waves smashing against the rocks with the tiled roof of the main hall right above them. Cross the little bridge to the end of the rocks for the angle everyone shoots, the whole temple leaning out over the sea. It faces the sunrise, so early birds come for dawn.