I can see the finish line! We’re at lesson #18 out of 20 in my free conversation course.
This course has 20 completely natural Korean conversations along with their full explanations and vocabulary. This course is also FREE. If you’ve already finished my “Beginner Korean Course” and are looking for something to do, then you can start here.
The Geukrak-jeon Hall at Wonhyoam Hermitage in Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Hermitage History
Wonhyoam Hermitage, named after the famed Wonhyo-daesa (617-686 A.D.), is located in northern Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do. There are numerous hermitages named after the famed Korean monk, so it should be noted that this Wonhyoam Hermitage is also located in the southeastern foothills of Mt. Palgongsan (1,192 m). Additionally, this Wonhyoam Hermitage is directly associated with Eunhaesa Temple.
It’s believed that this Wonhyoam Hermitage dates back to 668 A.D. In addition to being known as Wonhyoam Hermitage, it’s also known as Naengcheonsa Temple because of the spring water that always flows with cold water no matter the season. It’s also believed that this is where Wonhyo-daesa meditated, as well. Very little is known about the hermitage’s history until it was rebuilt in 1882 by the monk Geungwol-daesa. After the hermitage’s reconstruction, both the Daeung-jeon Hall and the Samseong-gak Hall were built in 1980. However, both shrine halls were destroyed by a fire on Mt. Palgongsan in 1986. So reconstruction started again at the hermitage in 1987. In 1990, the work was completed with the construction of the Geukrak-jeon Hall and the Sanshin-gak Hall.
Wonhyoam Hermitage is home to one provincial treasure, it’s the “Gyeongsan Wonhyoam Hermitage Seated Stone Statue of the Buddha.” This image is Gyeongsangbuk-do Tangible Cultural Heritage #386.
Hermitage Layout
Wonhyoam Hermitage is tucked away in a valley fold in the eastern slopes of Mt. Palgongsan. Up a sidewinding road, you’ll eventually come to the ridge where the hermitage is located. When you first approach the diminutive hermitage grounds, you’ll instantly notice the amazing views of the valley below.
When you get enough of the amazing views, you’ll then encounter a storage building that looks quite old. After going around this natural wood building, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the beautiful new Geukrak-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to the main hall are adorned with some beautiful Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). Stepping inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall, you’ll find a solitary image of Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise) on the main altar. To the right and left of the main altar are two additional murals. One of these murals is the red-accented Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural), while the other is also a red-accented mural dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife).
Just past the hermitage’s kitchen and monks’ dorms, and slightly up an embankment, you’ll find the Sanshin-gak Hall that functions as a Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall. The natural exterior of this shaman shrine hall houses a stunning mural dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside. Sanshin sits with two dongja (attendants) at his side and a ferocious tiger at his feet. This painting is joined inside the shaman shrine hall by an older mural dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
Additionally, and as you walk about 200 metres to the north of the hermitage grounds along a mountain trail, you’ll find the “Gyeongsan Wonhyoam Hermitage Seated Stone Statue of the Buddha.” The relief is carved onto a four metre tall rock. The relief is that of the Buddha, Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha). In total, the relief measures 158 cm in height and 170 cm wide. It’s believed that this relief dates back to Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.).
It should also be noted that the entire hermitage grounds are especially beautiful during the fall months as the trees turn into their autumnal hues.
How To Get There
From the Gyeongsan Intercity Bus Terminal, you’ll need to take Bus #803 to get to Wonhyoam Hermitage. After an incredible 64 stops, you’ll need to get off at the Solmaegi Bus Stop. From where the bus drops you off, you’ll need to walk an additional 15 minutes to get to the hermitage.
Overall Rating: 4/10
Wonhyoam Hermitage, like the other Wonhyoam Hermitages that I’ve visited in Korea, is beautifully situated in a rather remote location. Because of its remoteness, it maintains its overall feeling of tranquility and calm. In addition to the views, you can also enjoy the masterful painting dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), as well as the Unified Silla era stone relief dedicated to Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha) to the north of the hermitage grounds. Mt. Palgongsan is filled with beautiful temples and hermitages like Donghwasa Temple and Eunhaesa Temple, and Wonhyoam Hermitage is yet another site that dots this amazing mountain.
The road leading up to the hermitage.
The views as you make your way up to Wonhyoam Hermitage.
The storage building that greets you at the hermitage.
The Geukrak-jeon Hall.
One of the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the exterior of the main hall.
The beautiful dancheong on the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
The main altar inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
The mural dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) inside the main hall.
And the red Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall, as well.
The Sanshin-gak Hall.
The mural of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint) inside the shaman shrine hall.
Joined by this amazing painting dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit).
The Main Altar Inside the Daeung-jeon Hall at Ilchulam Hermitage in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Hermitage History
Ilchulam Hermitage, which is also known as the Ilchul-seonwon, is located just east of the airport in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do and south of Mt. Unjangsan (234 m). The name of the hermitage means “Sunrise Hermitage” in English. Originally, the temple was first founded during the Silla Dynasty (57 B.C. – 935 A.D.), however, very little is known about the temple’s history and the specific year that it was first established.
In 1914, the hermitage was rebuilt by the monk Hyegwang, who was visiting Girimsa Temple in Gyeongju. After this, a Buddhist academy was established at the hermitage to help protect traditional Korean Buddhism, which was under siege during Japanese Colonial Rule (1910-45). In essence, the academy was established to help counter Japanese Buddhist temple policies. In 1922, the Seonu Mutual Aid Association was formed, which was meant to support Korean Buddhist monks, Korean Buddhist temples, and the potential loss of their tradition through the influence of Japanese colonial policies.
In 1972, the Daeung-jeon Hall was built at Ilchulam Hermitage. In addition to the Daeung-jeon Hall, the Sanshin-gak Hall and the Yosachae (monks’ dorms) were subsequently built on the hermitage grounds. Ilchulam Hermitage is one of the 973 traditional Buddhist temples in Korea.
Hermitage Layout
Next to a flowing stream, you’ll make your way down a country road, until you come to the hermitage parking lot. Upon arriving, you’ll need to climb a set of stairs. After climbing these stairs, you’ll be greeted by the Daeung-jeon Hall. The main hall is a bit boxy, but the exterior of the Daeung-jeon Hall is adorned with a masterful collection of Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). Stepping inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find a triad of statues on the main altar under a large, red datjib (canopy). In the centre of the triad is an image of Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise). On either side of this central image, Amita-bul is joined by a long-haired statue of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) and Daesaeji-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom and Power for Amita-bul). Hanging on the far right wall is an elaborate Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural). And if you look closely at the Shinjung Taenghwa, and you find the image of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), you’ll notice that this shaman deity is holding a baby tiger in his arms. Also in this area of the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find a beautiful Koi and hummingbird mural. And to the left of the main altar, you’ll find a Chilseong (Seven Stars) mural.
To the right of the Daeung-jeon Hall are the monks’ dorms. But it’s to the rear of the main hall, and up a set of stairs that’s joined by a sheer rock cliffs, that you’ll find the second shrine hall at Ilchulam Hermitage. This is the Sanshin-gak Hall, which functions as a Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall. While the Dokseong (Lonely Saint) mural is rather plain in its composition, it’s the Sanshin (Mountain Spirit) mural that stands out. Sanshin is hold the tiger’s tail, while the tiger smiles in its folkish design.
How To Get There
From the Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal, you’ll need to take Bus #200 to get to Ilchulam Hermitage. After 26 stops, or 50 minutes, you’ll need to get off at the “Sangjeong Geomunso – 상정 검운소 하차” stop. From where the bus drops you off, you’ll need to walk about 700 metres, or 10 minutes, to get to Ilchulam Hermitage.
Overall Rating: 4/10
While smaller in size, there are a few highlights at Ilchulam Hermitage like the Sanshin mural inside the shaman shrine hall, the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorn the exterior walls of the Daeung-jeon Hall, as well as the main altar statue of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) and Daesaeji-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom and Power for Amita-bul). In addition to all this, have a closer look at the Shinjung Taenghwa inside the main hall at Sanshin and his little tiger. Ilchulam Hermitage is a nice little hermitage with a few nice little features.
The Daeung-jeon Hall at Ilchulam Hermitage.
One of the masterful Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the Daeung-jeon Hall.
As well as this white tiger up in the eaves of the main hall.
A closer look at the main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall. Look at those fierce dragons on the underside of the datjib (canopy).
The painting of Chilseong (The Seven Stars) inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
Joined by this Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural).
An up-close of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside the Shinjung Taenghwa.
The lotus flowers, Koi, and humming birds painting near the Shinjung Taenghwa.
The Sanshin-gak Hall.
Which houses this painting of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
And this painting dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit). Just look at the tiger!
The View Near Wonhyoam Hermitage at Beomeosa Temple in Geumjeong-gu, Busan.
Hermitage History
Wonhyoam Hermitage is located to the south of Beomeosa Temple and to the east of Mt. Geumjeongsan (801.5 m) in Geumjeong-gu, Busan. It’s believed that Wonhyoam Hermitage was first established by Wonhyo-daesa (617-686 A.D.) during Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.). After the hermitage’s founding, its history is unknown until it was rebuilt during the late Joseon Dynasty (1393-1910) like other hermitages located on the Beomeosa Temple grounds. Wonhyoam Hermitage was later re-opened in June, 1906.
Half of the fun of seeing Wonhyoam Hermitage is the adventure of making the long hike up the steep, rocky trail from Beomeosa Temple. In fact, the area that you first start to hike on your way up to Wonhyoam Hermitage is called “Dolbada,” which literally means “Rock Sea” in English. So make sure you bring a good pair of hiking shoes on your hike.
The trail that leads up to the hermitage zigs and zags for about a kilometre. The trail to the hermitage is marked by white signs along the way. There’s a faded hermitage sign to the right, which highlights the summit of the mountain where Wonhyoam Hermitage is located. However, before you turn towards the trail that leads up to the hermitage, you should hang a left towards a rocky outcropping. Scaling the rocks is a bit dangerous, so be careful. But once you’ve traversed these big boulders, a beautiful panoramic view of Busan and the Nakdong River reveal themselves in the twisting valleys below. It’s a nice little spot to catch your breath among the sky and the stones.
Once you’ve captured your breath, and taken a few pictures, head back to the main hiking trail. A well-groomed hiking trail will lead you to a set of three stupas of monks that once resided at the hermitage. To the left of these stupas is the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Eastern Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage.” This stone pagoda is located to the east of the main hermitage grounds at Wonhyoam Hermitage. It’s presumed to have first been made sometime between the end of Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.) and the start of the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). The pagoda consists of a base, body, and finial. It’s presumed that the original pagoda had a two-tiered base situated between the platform of the pagoda and the first-story of the body stone. Based on the damage caused to the roof stones, it’s presumed that at some point that the pagoda had fallen over and been damaged and then reassembled. The second and third body stones are made of a different type of stone and are disproportionate to the other parts of the pagoda, which suggests that they were replaced at some point in the pagoda’s history.
Continuing up the trail, and past the hermitage’s vegetable garden, you’ll notice the main entry gates at Wonhyoam Hermitage. The entry gate is adorned with a pair of guardian paintings. And these guardians are joined by a pair of lion-headed door knockers. As you pass through this entry gate, you’ll be met by a serenely maintained hermitage courtyard.
Straight ahead is the diminutive main hall. The exterior walls are filled with images from the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). Inside this main hall, and resting on the main altar, is an image of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion). This is the “Seated Wooden Gwanseeum-bosal of Beomeosa Temple’s Wonhyoam Hermitage.” The 17th century image of the Bodhisattva of Compassion has a square face, a large nose, and its head is rather small in proportion to the rest of its body. Its long, black hair reaches down to its shoulders. And the wooden image of Gwanseeum-bosal is adorned in a golden robe with multiple folds. What’s important about this statue is that there are very few images from the 17th and/or 18th century from Busan. Overall, the seated image has a serene look on its face. To the right of this main altar image is a statue of Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife). And to the left of the main altar image of Gwanseeum-bosal is a modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural).
As you step outside the main hall, you’ll notice an administrative office to your left. To the right, and up a hill, is a set of monks’ dorms and a meditation hall. It’s also in this area that you’ll find the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Western Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage.” Like the eastern pagoda at the entry of Wonhyoam Hermitage, this pagoda is presumed to have been made at the turn of Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.) and the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Originally, it’s believed to have been located about thirty metres to the northwest at Wonhyoam Hermitage. This pagoda consists of a base, three body stones, and a finial. It’s presumed to have been originally made with a two-tiered base, but now only a part of the lower tier and the upper tier still remain. The eaves of the roof stones are damaged. And the second and third story of the body stones seem slightly shifted from their original position. This suggests that the pagoda must have once fallen but was eventually re-assembled. As for a comparison between this pagoda and the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Eastern Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage,” there is a difference in size and style, so it’s presumed that they are not, in fact, a paired set.
How To Get There
From Beomeosa Station, stop #133 on line #1, go out exits #5 or #7. From there, walk five minutes to the bus stop and take Bus #90 to get to the entrance of Beomeosa Temple. Then you can take a path that leads left of the Iljumun Gate at Beomeosa Temple. This trail will lead you to a clearing with a wooden bridge that spans a stream. This area is the start of the Dolbada (Rock Sea). Hang a left and cross the bridge. Straight ahead is the first of several white signs with red print that read “원효암.” Now the truly tricky part: head up the one kilometre trail to the summit of the ridge along Mt. Geumjeongsan. You’ll pass through a gate with wired fencing. You’re halfway there! Keep going, and you’ll come to a faded sign. The hermitage is about 300 more metres up the trail pass the pagoda, stupas, and the hermitage vegetable farm.
Overall Rating: 6/10
Wonhyoam Hermitage has undergone some pretty extensive restoration and rebuilding over the past ten years. There are amazing views down towards Busan and the Nakdong River. In addition to all this natural beauty, you can also enjoy the interior of the main hall that includes the “Seated Wooden Gwanseeum-bosal of Beomeosa Temple’s Wonhyoam Hermitage.” Also, keep an eye out for both historic pagodas inside and outside the hermitage grounds. It’s actually a bit surprising that they’re not yet Korean Treasures. The hermitage itself is serene and worth the effort to get to. So if you have the time, strength and the stamina, take a hike up to Wonhyoam Hermitage.
The trail and sign on the way up to Wonhyoam Hermitage.
The view from the rock-outcropping near the hermitage.
Some ancient graffiti on some massive boulders.
Nearing Wonhyoam Hermitage.
The stupas out in front of the hermitage grounds.
The “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Eastern Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage.”
The vegetable garden at Wonhyoam Hermitage.
The old entry gate at the hermitage.
The main hall at Wonhyoam Hermitage.
Two images from the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals).
The image of the “Seated Wooden Gwanseeum-bosal of Beomeosa Temple’s Wonhyoam Hermitage” inside the main hall.
Joined by this green-haired image of Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife).
The trail leading up to the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Western Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage.”
A closer look at the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda on the Western Side of Wonhyoam Hermitage.”
This past Sunday I taught about using the ~니다/~니까 forms used in Formal Speech, and compared them to the standard ~요 form. I taught when and how to use each one of them, and how both of them can also be mixed in the same sentence. The full live stream was around an hour but I managed to condense the most essential parts to just 17 minute here.
Myogwaneumsa Temple is located just to the east of Mt. Daleumsan (588 m) and hugging the coastline of the East Sea in Gijang-gun, Busan. Myogwaneumsa Temple follows in the Buddhist tradition of Taego Bou (1301-1383). Myogwaneumsa Temple was founded in 1943 by the monk Unbong-seonsa, and it established itself as a training centre. Unbong-seonsa was a disciple of the famed monk Gyeongheo (1849–1912), and it was built to help sustain the Korean Buddhist tradition during Japanese Colonial Rule (1910-45). Myogwaneumsa Temple is one of the 973 traditional Korean Buddhist temples.
From the temple parking lot, you’ll first be welcomed to the temple by the visitors’ centre. It’s up a set of stone stairs and through the Boje-ru Pavilion that you’ll enter the main temple grounds. Adorning the doors to the Boje-ru Pavilion are a pair of stunning guardian paintings. And up the adjoining walls to the entryway of the pavilion are a pair of paintings dedicated to Bohyeon-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Power), who rides a white elephant; and Munsu-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom), who rides a blue haetae/lion.
Perfectly framed by the entry pavilion, and as you first step inside the main temple courtyard, you’ll find a nine-story stone pagoda. Slender in design, the pagoda has painted images of various guardians adorning the base of the pagoda, instead of being carved onto the base of the stone structure which is more traditional.
Past the pagoda and the book-ending dorms, you’ll find the temple’s main hall. Out in front of the Daeung-jeon Hall are a line of palm trees. Adorning the exterior walls of the main hall are a masterful collection of Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). Stepping inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find a triad of statues on the main altar. Sitting in the centre of this triad is the image of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha), who is joined on either side by Munsu-bosal and Bohyeon-bosal. The red painting to the right of the main altar is dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife), while the red painting to the left is dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars). The other mural taking up residence inside the Daeung-jeon Hall is a modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural). The ceiling inside the main hall, especially over the main altar, is adorned with a beautiful collection of various Buddhist-related murals.
To the right rear of the Daeung-jeon Hall is the Josa-jeon Hall. This temple shrine hall, which is adorned with a floral exterior, is dedicated to prominent monks that once called Myogwaneumsa Temple home or are important to the temple’s tradition. In total, there are five murals that occupy the main altar.
To the rear of the temple grounds, and situated in the upper courtyard, are a pair of shrine halls. The first, which has a beautiful view out towards the neighbouring East Sea, is the Gwaneum-jeon Hall. Fronted by a slim five-story pagoda is the newly built shrine hall, which houses two different incarnations of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Gwanseeum-bosal. The first is a diminutive golden statue of Gwanseeum-bosal, while the other is an elaborate wooden carving dedicated to the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
The final shrine hall at Myogwaneumsa Temple is located to the left of the Gwaneum-jeon Hall. The Samseong-gak Hall is larger in size and houses three beautiful murals dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), Chilseong (The Seven Stars), and Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
How To Get There
From Wollae Station, which is located on the Donghae Line, you’ll need to go out exit #1 and head southwest along the “Haemati-ro – 해맞이로” road. You can walk the 1.4 km distance, which will take you about 20 minutes, or you can simply take a taxi. The taxi ride will take three minutes, and it’ll cost you around 5,000 won (one way).
Overall Rating: 7/10
The grounds at Myogwaneumsa Temple are simply superb. The temple is just as beautiful in its scenic location next to the East Sea, as it is in its architectural and artistic beauty. As for the temple itself, the amazing wooden image of Gwanseeum-bosal inside the Gwaneum-jeon Hall, the artwork adorning the Boje-ru Pavilion, as well as the three modern shaman paintings inside the Samseong-gak Hall are all things to look for while at Myogwaneumsa Temple. The temple is a beautiful blend of natural and artistic beauty.
A look through the Boje-ru Pavilion at Myogwaneumsa Temple.
The painted base of the nine-story pagoda at the temple.
The Daeung-jeon Hall at Myogwaneumsa Temple.
“Catching the Ox,” which is the fourth painting from the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals).
The main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The painting dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
Joined by this painting dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars).
And this modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural).
The view from the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The Josa-jeon Hall.
The painting dedicated to Gyeongheo (1849–1912) inside the Josa-jeon Hall.
The Gwaneum-jeon Hall and five-story pagoda at Myogwaneumsa Temple.
The two images of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) inside the Gwaneum-jeon Hall.
The view from the Gwaneum-jeon Hall.
The Samseong-gak Hall.
With a painting of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside the shaman shrine hall.
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The Twenty-Two Metre Tall Statue of Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) at Okryeonseonwon Temple in Suyeong-gu, Busan.
Temple History
Okryeonseonwon Temple is located on the southeastern portion of Mt. Baeksan in Suyeong-gu, Busan. The Mt. Baeksan area of Busan was known as an area for local’s to worship, especially for the prosperity of their descendants. It was also known as a military area to protect the city from the Japanese.
Although the exact date of the temple’s founding is unknown, it’s believed by some to have first been built by Wonhyo-daesa (617-686 A.D.) in 670 A.D. It’s also believed that Choe Chiwon (857–10th century) stayed at the temple in 910 A.D. Originally, the temple was called Baeksansa Temple. Eventually, the name of the temple would change to Okryeonam Hermitage in 1635.
Much later, and in 1976, the Bohyeon-jeon Hall was reconstructed by the abbot of the temple, Hyun-jin. It was at this time that the name of the temple changed, once more, this time to Okryeonseonwon Temple. In 1992, the stone Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) statue was enshrined at the temple. In October, 1998, Okryeonseonwon Temple was recognized as one of the 973 traditional temples in Korea. In total, there are about ten to fifteen monks that practice at the temple.
Okryeonseonwon Temple is home to just one treasure, which is the “Statue of Jijang-bosal [The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife] Carved on a Rock Face.” It’s Busan Cultural Material #7.
Temple Layout
You first approach Okryeonseonwon Temple up a steep road that seems to be popular with local mountain hikers. You’ll know that you’re nearing the temple grounds because you’ll see an extended three metre high wall made completely of roof tiles. When you do eventually arrive at the temple grounds, you’ll be welcomed by the Iljumun Gate that’s decorated with murals of Heng and Ha (Narayeon Geumgang and Miljeok Geumgang).
Passing through this entry gate, you’ll see the monks’ quarters straight ahead of you. The lovely grass pathway runs alongside a lush hedgerow. The Jong-ru Pavilion hovers over the hedges in this area of the lower temple courtyard.
At the end of the path, and just before the bell pavilion, you’ll find a pair of seokdeung (stone lanterns) with an assortment of smaller statues in all the cracks and crevices of the wall. Just up the stairs, and you’ll eventually arrive in the upper courtyard at Okryeonseonwon Temple. Straight ahead of you is the compact Daeung-jeon Hall. Stepping inside the main hall, you’ll find a triad of statues on the main altar underneath an understated datjib (canopy). The central image is a seated statue of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha), who is joined on either side by standing images of Munsu-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom) and Bohyeon-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Power). To the right of the main altar is a large multi-eyed painting dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion). Also taking up residence inside the Daeung-jeon Hall is a Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural).
Just to the left of the Daeung-jeon Hall, and up a set of stairs, is the Samseong-gak Hall. You’ll get some amazing views of the neighbouring cityscape from this location. As for inside this shaman shrine hall, and unusually resting in the centre of the three most popular shaman deities in Korean Buddhism, is a life-sized statue of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit). To the left of this statue is a painting of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint) who wears golden earring on his rather elongated earlobes. And to the right of the central image of Sanshin are a pair of paintings. The first is dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars), while the other is dedicated to Yongwang (The Dragon King), who is rather surprisingly joined by Dongjin-bosal (The Bodhisattva that Protects the Buddha’s Teachings), as well a blue and yellow dragon in the upper portion of the painting. And just to the right of the Samseong-gak Hall, and behind the Daeung-jeon Hall, is a solitary three-story stone pagoda.
It’s also in this area that you’ll find the “The Statue of Jijang-bosal [The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife] Carved on a Rock Face.” The relief was carved onto two large rocks. The relief was carved rather shallowly, and it was painted both red and blue in more recent years (but even this has now faded). Half of the shallow relief has fallen off. It’s not clear if this was done on purpose or by accident. It’s believed that the relief dates back to the 17th or 18th century based upon the nimbus that surrounds the image of the Bodhisattva. It’s also believed that the relief, in part, was created to protect the South Sea off the coast of Busan.
To the right and left of the Daeung-jeon Hall, on the other hand, are the monks’ dorms and administrative office. But the true highlight to the temple is located in the far left corner of the temple grounds. Situated here is the massive twenty-two metre tall statue dedicated to Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) that was first constructed in 1998. Mireuk-bul enjoys a commanding view over the city of Busan. There are a combination of red roses, purple irises and an assortment of other flowers in this area, as well.
How To Get There
There are two ways to get to Okryeonseonwon Temple. Both require you to first get off at the Millak Subway Station, stop #207, on the second line. From this subway stop, you’ll need to go out exit #1 and catch a taxi. The ride should take about 5 minutes and cost you around 5,000 won (one way).
The other way that you can get to Okryeonseonwon Temple is to go out exit #1 at the Millak Subway Station. Head towards the sea and towards the second bridge to the south. Once you get to the bridge, hang a right. Head in this direction for about 300 metres. You’ll then need to hang another right towards Millak Elementary School. Head up this road, which has a bit of an incline, for an additional 300 metres, until you arrive at Okryeonseonwon Temple.
Overall Rating: 6.5/10
Okryeonseonwon Temple is one of the most beautifully located temples in Busan. From its flowers, to its well-maintained lawns and landscaping, as well as the views that the temple enjoys, and you’ll understand why I consider Okryeonseonwon Temple as one of the most beautifully situated temples in Busan. In addition, you can also enjoy the interior of the Daeung-jeon Hall, the painting dedicated to Yongwang (The Dragon King) inside the Samseong-gak Hall, the “Statue of Jijang-bosal [The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife] Carved on a Rock Face,” and the massive Mireuk-bul (Future Buddha) statue to the rear of the temple grounds. It all makes for a beautiful temple visit.
The hedges leading up to the Iljumun Gate.
The Jong-ru Pavilion that appears over top of the hedges.
The stunning Iljumun Gate.
The stairs leading up to the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The main hall at Okryeonseonwon Temple.
A look inside the Daeung-jeon Hall at the main altar.
A look over the monks’ dorms towards the city of Busan.
The large Sanshin (Mountain Spirit) statue inside the Samseong-gak Hall.
Joined by this painting of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
And these of Chilseong (left) and Yongwang (right).
The modern three-story pagoda to the rear of the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The crumbling “Statue of Jijang-bosal [The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife] Carved on a Rock Face.”
And the beautifully serene statue of Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) to the rear of the temple grounds.
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