Whatever the sect, Korean temples always have certain features in common. These things make many people feel that all temples are the same but this is a false impression. Site, period and purpose all create great differences, as do the founding legends which often pinpoint the orientation of that particular temple. By giving a title to each temple we have tried to highlight its special aspect. Here are some of the things that temples have in common:

Temples are laid out according to the principles of geomancy (see Pusoksa)
and their arrangement represents the Buddhist paradise. Leading up to the main compound, almost all temples have a winding path which often takes you over a bridge over a stream (see T'ongdosa) and then goes on to the One-Pillar Gate (see Pomosa) where the temple compound begins. In many temples this path will pass stele, huge blocks of polished stone which tell the history of the temple or, if you see rows of Chinese characters in threes, the names of the donors, sometimes on the backs of giant turtles. There  may also be pudo, large bulbous stones with or without hats¡±which house the remains of great monks. Often here, too, the information board is located. 

Next comes the second gate or Four Guardians' Gate, which in larger temples is a separate structure. If the temple you are visiting is small, then the two gate gods, warding off evil, are painted on the main doors. They represent the power of wisdom over ignorance. Next comes the Gate of Non-Duality. Placed in a central position, slightly elevated

and on the central axis of the compound is the Main Hall where ceremonies are carried out. In front of the Main Hall, depending on the period the temple was built in, there will be one or two pagodas and one or two stone lamps. Other pagodas are located in different, not specific locations within the compound. Often there are other little shrines nearby dedicated to different Bodhisattvas or Buddhas.

Sometimes you will find two stone posts. These are supports for the giant paintings which are displayed for special events to make a huge outdoor shrine. Off in one corner there will be the shrine to the indigenous gods (see Shinhungsa Temple).

Near the Main Hall the bhikkus'/bhikkunis' (monks'/nuns') college and library are often found. Living quarters for the residents are also nearby. Off to one side will be the large kitchen and eating hall where the members of the community as well as visitors are fed. The meditation center is usually placed quite far from the main living areas. It can vary  from a building which can accommodate 50 to one for ten meditators at any one time (see Temple Life). Many larger temples have smaller temples or hermitages in the surrounding hills. 

These are sometimes large, accommodating up to 50 residents, or they may be occupied by a single person. On the 8th day of the 4th lunar month (usually in May), Buddhists celebrate their main event of the year, Buddha's birthday. All the temples are colorfully decorated with hundreds of lotus lanterns.