On our third day in Korea, Adam wanted to take us up to the mountains that he loved so much and so we took the subway to the bus station, and then took two different buses, and then a taxi up to the Bukhansan National Park. However, before going for our hike, we decided to go up and take a quick look at the Donsunsa Temple that was maybe a 5 minute walk and try to find some lunch.
On the subway on the way to the bus station.
Taking a potty break before getting on our bus. Not squatter toilets again! ha ha! At least this time we could wear shoes! đ
Ady really wanted a turn wearing the backpack – but quickly decided that it was harder than it looked! Silly girl!
The entrance to the Donsunsa Temple. These are the guards protecting it from intruders! (and the chicken wire protecting the guards from pooping pigeons!)
The view of Seoul was awesome as we walked up! This is maybe just 10-15% of the city.
Just a small glimpse of one of the largest cities in the world (estimated at 10.44 M people in the city and 25M in the metropolitan area)! This area in particular is one of the most densely populated areas in the world
Loved all the lotus flowers all over!
And the walk up was well worth it! The temple was beautiful and decorated in thousands of Chinese lanterns! Wow!
Gotta rub Buddha’s belly! It is good luck after all!
Not sure if this was a graveyard or just a memorial of sorts for past priests or Gods.
Cool looking tree.
And a very large, very flat statue of Buddha! And lost of people out to worship!
Going from the looks of this Buddha – he must be extra lucky! đ ha ha.
As we were visiting the temple this really kind monk came up to the kids and gave each one a choco pie and a bracelet! We were so touched by his kindness and generosity that we asked to take a picture with him to remember him by! The Korean people seriously are so so generous and giving!
Afterwards we went to find some lunch and found this cafeteria serving a traditional rice dish with spices in it(Bibimpap). We each got one and then looked for where we could pay, but then were told that all the food was free. We looked all over for a place to donate money to help pay for our meals, but couldn’t find a donation box anywhere. We also had a few ladies give the kids some free watermelon and two huge packages of yummy Korean yogurt drinks. Once again we were left in awe and amazement at the kindness of others. Korea sure is an amazing place!
All they asked was that you did your own dishes when you were through eating their free food. A very small request for such a kindness.
And aren’t these flowers just beautiful!? Oh my was I in love!
And of course we had to get a picture in front of the large drum! Very cool indeed.
We were so glad we took the few extra minutes to go and explore the temples and eat lunch! It was definitely worth the trip and left our hearts warm by the kindness of others.