Most historic temples in Korea are hidden deep in the mountains. Haedong Yonggungsa is built right on the edge of the sea.
The temple clings to the rocky coastline of Busan. Wherever you stand on the grounds, you can hear the ocean crashing against the dark rocks.
To reach the main courtyard, you walk down a flight of stone steps traditionally counted as one hundred and eight. In Buddhism, that number represents worldly desires. You are meant to leave your everyday worries behind with every step you take toward the water.
People travel here specifically to ask for things. The temple is known for a bold promise: if you pray with a sincere heart, at least one of your wishes will come true.
You will see visitors leaning over the stone bridge, trying to toss coins into small bowls in the water below. High above them, on a cliff overlooking the ocean, stands a towering stone statue of the Goddess of Mercy. She faces the open water. Legend says she lives by the sea, and rides on the back of a dragon.
