Yesterday and today we spent time in Yongjusa Buddhist monastery in Gyeongi-do area as part of temple-stay programme. We left for the monastery yesterday evening; right after we arrived in the monastery, we were given lockers and needed utensils such as cups (one metal cup for drinking water and plastic cup for brushing and washing up). On the same evening, we were given a temple tour. We went to bed early around 9 p.m. and were happy to spent the night in the temple accommodation. We were provided sleeping bags.
Following morning, our day began at 3.00 a.m. with brushing teeth. First we participated in ringing the temple bell. From 3.40 a.m., we participate in the early morning chanting with the monks. Our Son meditation practice began at 4.00 a.m. which lasted until 5.00 a.m. Right after, we were given a tour of the temple premises. While at 6.00 a.m., we were served breakfast, our 'orange' team were initiated in the practice of sweeping temple grounds. This was a good opportunity for our team to learn how to use a broom to gather leaves on the temple ground.
We also had the opportunity to drink tea with the meditation teacher and the young lady who was responsible for our visit. We were served tea with Korean sweets.
After 9.30 a.m. we went for a visit to the tomb of Yungneung. After lunch, we also visited the temple museum and return backed to Seoul. This was an excellent opportunity to learn many Buddhist customs as well as some Confician practices and beliefs.
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