Today is the day we leave Seoul! We are not leaving South Korea, as we are heading to the Golgulsa Temple before arriving in Pohang and then returning to Seoul for a few more nights. It was a relatively painless process this morning checking out of the hotel, and I was still able to go convert more United States dollars into Korean won. After loading a small truck with all our luggage, we took a coach bus to the Seoul KTX station.
The KTX station was enormous, with numerous floors and restaurants. Some American chains were in the station, such as Burger King, McDonalds, and Dunkin, and their menus seemed much different than their American franchises. At the station, I saw a few trains arriving and leaving. It is amazing how so many cars are attached in a line with the train, but the train is still able to accelerate to rapid speeds and decelerate to arrive safely in the station. I know that the train brakes cannot be smooth, as the air brakes need enough resistance to get the train to stop.
While riding on the KTX train toward Gyeongju, it did not feel like we were traveling that fast. However, looking out the windows and seeing the trees whipping by reminded me that we were traveling at close to 200 miles per hour. I noticed that the seats were facing backwards, so that whenever we accelerated, we were pushed into the seat and not into empty space.
We had a fantastic bibimbap lunch while en route to the temple. I enjoy dumping my rice, the various side dishes, and any broth into the same bowl and eating it, as all the flavors mix well together and I do not leave any waste.
When we arrived at the temple we immediately watched an interesting ceremony where the monks struck a bell. After settling into our rooms, we traveled to a wooden temple area where others in the group did various stretching exercises before bowing to Buddha in prostration exercises.
I really enjoyed the dinner, even though it was meatless, as I was able to eat plenty. There were various kimchis and vegetable sprouts, and the miso soup was delicious. We sat on the ground and were not allowed to waste any food, but I always finish my plate, so I was okay.
Lastly, the monks and some Korean dancers orchestrated activities like dancing and yoga, where I learned more about Korean traditions.
After talking with my roommates for a little, I went to bed on my mat on the floor.
