Attitudes of foreign tourists toward temple stay in the Republic of Korea

Abstract

The purposes of this research were aimed 1) to study the attitudes of foreign tourists toward temple stay in the Republic of Korea (ROK) 2) to study foreign tourists’ behaviors regarding temple stay participation 3) to study the problems and obstacles of tourists on temple stay in ROK. The research was carried out using qualitative method. The sample of qualitative research comprised all foreign tourists, who had and had no experience in temple stay, and who participated in temple stay at Golgulsa temple, Gyeongju, ROK at least for 1 night. Interview questionnaires were instrument to gather data from sampling tourists. The interview was conducted by the mid of 2010 academic year. The research revealed the following fact that the attitudes of foreign tourists toward temple stay were good in term of temple stay activities, volunteers, schedule, services and facilities while the temple stay admission fee is too expensive. About behaviors of foreign tourists regarding temple stay participation, most foreign tourists had participated temple stay for the first time. Sources of travel information included the internet, brochures, and word of mouth by friends. The average stay period was 2 days 1 night and the main motivation for participating in temple stay was to experience Korea Buddhist culture. Most foreign tourist traveled with friends and they indicated they would like to participate in temple stay again. In regard to problems and obstacles of temple stay, the temple stay activities and accommodations were requested to be more suitable for elderly, particularly the bed in the bedroom, bowing and sitting meditation. In general, the explanation about Buddha’s teaching should be concerned. The temple stay volunteers lack of understand Korea Buddhism, and the ability to communicate in English. The inconvenient infrastructure such transportation and direction sign should be improve in order to maintain the foreign tourists.