Korean Temple in Silang, Cavite: Manila Buddhist Zen Center

Korea’s culture has paved its way into the world. Now, lots of people around the world had discovered its beauty and the essence of their culture, especially here in the Philippines.  I have witnessed Korean dramas and K-pop groups become rampantly popular here in our country in a blink of an eye. Thus, the emergence of the word “Koreaboo,” a term used to refer to people who have been affected or influenced by this Korean wave or Hallyu that continues to sweep across Asia and other parts of the world. I consider myself as a Koreaboo. I kid you not, I can waste an entire day watching Korean dramas, finishing an entire series in a span of 1-2 days can now be listed as one of my skills.  

Ever since I saw a blog post about a Korean Temple near our area, I kept on badgering my parents to go with me because I want them to explore and relax too. Then one day my dad finally said “yes!” I have been like a kid with ants in her pants that day. If you're a koreaboo just like me but couldn't afford yet to go to Korea, I'm certain that this place is just what you are looking for to satisfy your inner korean-craze. 

Pretty sad though the weather was gloomy and it was raining, we were not able to enjoy much. We had a very hard time looking for the Korean Temple, it was like finding a needle in a haystack. It was moments later that we decided to use Waze.  Thank God for Waze, we arrived at the destination.

(PS: If you're itching to know how to go there, just scroll down until you see "HOW TO GET THERE")

Upon arriving, this is what we saw.

A huge gate. Attached to it are signs with Korean words.

You can see that the pavement is damp because as I stated a while ago, it was a rainy day. The gusty wind made the environment chilly, it felt as though I was really in Korea. 

Doesn’t it look like a scene from a Korean drama? Surreal. This place reminds me of Goblin.

Solo cause I don’t have an oppa! :(

Korean drama feels! This picture would have been better if I have an oppa beside me. Don’t you agree? Hahaha. But with oppa or without oppa, you’ll really enjoy this calming place.

If you want a break from the hectic and noisy life at the Metro, this place is one of the best places to go to because it is only an hour away from Manila. Quiet, serene, and beautiful. You can meditate, relax, unwind, and ponder upon your life there peacefully.

You'll also find lots of statues in there. 

HOW TO GET THERE?

* From Coastal Terminal, ride a bus going to Tagaytay.

* Ask the driver/conductor to drop you off at Estrella Hospital

* Cross the street, you'll see 7-11. 

* Ride a colored maroon tricycle, tell the tricycle driver to drop you off at Pooc 2 at the Korean Temple.

* Landmark: A school is just nearby.

HOW MUCH WILL YOU SPEND FOR THIS TRIP?

* Bus fare to Silang = 56 pesos (112 back & forth)

* Tricycle = 15 pesos (30 pesos back & forth)

* NO ENTRANCE FEE FOR THE TEMPLE

Total expense will be: 142 pesos.

For just 142 pesos, you'll feel like you are in Korea already. Not bad right? Plus, Tagaytay is just a few kilometers away. 

OTHER DETAILS:

* The guard said that the temple opens at 9-11 AM and 1-4 PM. It's best you go early.

* Here's a link to their website: www.manilameditation.org (just in case you want to know more about the Korean Temple.)

PLEASE DO TAKE NOTE THAT THIS IS A SACRED PLACE. OBSERVE SILENCE AT ALL TIME.

Oh and If you have any questions regarding this place or if you would also like to share your experience there, just comment down below.

Sincerely,

Aryce.