Exploring Korea’s National Heritage in Gyeonggi Province: Yangju City’s Hoeamsaji Museum & Outdoor Park

Gyeonggi Province, with its rich history spanning over a thousand years, is home to numerous cultural and historical treasures that beautifu...

Gyeonggi Province, with its rich history spanning over a thousand years, is home to numerous cultural and historical treasures that beautifully blend tradition with modernity.

Among these is the Hoeamsaji Museum of Yangju City, a remarkable historical site where visitors can enjoy an immersive exploration of Korea’s past, engage in interactive experiences, and relax in a serene natural setting.  

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once a grand royal temple during the late Goryeo and early Joseon dynasties, Hoeamsaji was one of the largest and most magnificent Buddhist temples of its time. 

Though only its foundations remain today, the site retains its significance through its unique palace-style architecture and archaeological importance. Recognized for its historical value, it has been designated as Korea’s National Historic Site No. 128.

The Hoeamsaji site consists of three main areas: Hoeamsaji Museum, the Outdoor Park, and the Temple Ruins. 

Let’s start our journey from the museum!

✔️ Hoeamsaji Museum of Yangju City

As you pass through the main gate, you'll see the museum located at the entrance. The Hoeamsaji Museum offers an interesting introduction to the history of Hoeamsaji, where you can explore various excavated artifacts and enjoy a variety of interactive experiences.

Therefore, we recommend visiting the Hoeamsaji Museum before heading to the temple ruins.

Museum Admission & Hours

• Admission Fees: Adults KRW 2,000 / Teens & Soldiers KRW 1,500 / Children KRW 1,000 

• Operating Hours:

o March 1 – October 31: 9 AM – 6 PM

o November 1 – February 28: 9 AM – 5 PM

• Closed on: Mondays, January 1, Lunar New Year, Chuseok

Inside the museum, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including a miniature recreation of a royal parade, interactive media presentations on Hoeamsaji’s past and present, and hands-on experiences that bring history to life.

✔️ Interactive Experiences at the Museum

1. Photo Zone

Step into the role of a Joseon-era king by dressing in a royal robe (gonryongpo) and taking a photo on a throne backdrop featuring the iconic Ilwolobongdo (Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks painting).

2. Cultural Experience Room & Traditional Playground

Enjoy coloring activities inspired by Hoeamsaji and play traditional Korean games such as top spinning and yutnori, making this an ideal stop for families with children.

3. Automata & VR Experience

Engage with automata exhibits, where you can press buttons to activate moving historical dioramas. Additionally, the VR experience allows you to virtually walk through the Hoeamsaji as it once stood centuries ago.

With its diverse range of activities, the museum offers something for visitors of all ages to enjoy!

After exploring the museum, take a leisurely stroll towards the actual temple ruins. 

Along the way, you’ll pass through a vast outdoor park, an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

Many visitors come here to fly kites, have a picnic, or capture beautiful moments through photography. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your furry friends and a picnic mat!

As you continue walking, the remains of Hoeamsaji come into view. Although much of the temple was lost due to a mysterious fire in the late 16th century, key stone structures, such as pagodas and foundation stones, remain intact, offering a glimpse into its former grandeur.

Try to recall the museum’s digital reconstruction as you wander through the ruins, imagining the temple as it once stood—a place of worship, healing, and reflection.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beyond its royal connections, Hoeamsaji is also a significant site in Korea’s Seon (Zen) Buddhist tradition. Due to its cultural and historical importance, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

For a meaningful day trip in Gyeonggi Province, explore the Hoeamsaji Museum of Yangju City, enjoy the scenic outdoor park, and reflect on Korea’s rich history at the temple ruins. 

📍 Hoeamsaji Address: 18 Hoam-dong, Yangju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Explore More! For more travel inspiration and information about Korea, visit the Gyeonggi Province Blog, where we share weekly articles on various topics for international visitors.

Dive into the wonders of Korea and plan your next adventure with us!

https://www.gyeonggido-korea.com/