[Baeknyeon Gage] Geumgang Sikdang | Restaurant Guide

73 Guinsa-gil, Yeongchun-myeon, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

Guinsa Temple is the head temple of the Cheontae Order of Korean Buddhism, overseeing 140 temples nationwide. Established in 1945, it features a distinctive modern concrete structure built in 1966. Located beneath Yeonhwabong, one of the magnificent peaks surrounding Sinbaksan Gukmangbong, it was founded by Sangwol Wongak Sunim, who in 1945 personally wove vines to build a three-room thatched hermitage, achieving enlightenment and establishing Guinsa. As a large-scale modern temple complex (total building area 15,014㎡), the temple grounds are densely filled with over 50 buildings including the five-story main Dharma hall, Sambodang, Seolseondang, the General Affairs Office, Ingwangdang, Jangmunsil, Hyangjeokdang, and Dohyangdang, as well as modern facilities capable of feeding over ten thousand people. Two must-see attractions at Guinsa are the largest Dharma hall in the country and the Dharma Monument. The five-story main Dharma hall, completed on April 29, 1980, stands on the site where Sangwol Wongak Daedosa initially founded Guinsa by weaving vines into a three-room hermitage. Following the late Daedosa’s wishes, Great Master Nam Dae-chung built this ultra-large traditional-style hall using modern techniques, accommodating over 5,000 people. The Dharma Monument of Sangwol Wongak Daedosa is engraved with a concise and clear summary of all the sermons he taught throughout his life to disciples. This monument contains all the truths of the 80,000 Buddhist scriptures and encompasses the profound and subtle principles of the Buddha’s teachings. Guinsa also offers engaging programs such as self-reflective experiences, making prayer beads and lanterns, and various templestay options ranging from day programs to overnight stays.

Bobaljae, famous for its winding autumn foliage road, is a driving destination located at an elevation of 540m on the hill road connecting Bobal-ri in Gagok-myeon and Baekja-ri in Yeongchun-myeon. Also known as 'Godneomejae,' Bobaljae is part of the Sobaeksan Ridge Trail Course 6, where colorful wildflowers bloom in spring and vibrant autumn leaves stretch in fall. Particularly, the approximately 3km roadside lined with beautiful maple trees harmonizes with the Sobaeksan mountain range, stimulating visitors' emotions. The observatory located at the summit offers a panoramic view of Bobaljae's autumn foliage and scenery, attracting many tourists and photographers, making it a top autumn foliage spot for capturing memorable photos. Additionally, in 2020, Danyang-gun planted about 500 more maple trees along the roadside from Hyangsang Samgeori in Gagok-myeon to Bobaljae and Guinsa to enhance the autumn atmosphere. There is no separate parking lot, so visitors can use the parking space about 200m behind Bobaljae or park along the road. Nearby are Guinsa, the head temple of the Cheontae Order, and Ondal Tourist Site, which are also worth visiting.

Bobaljae Pass is located 540 m above sea level on the northern side of Sobaeksan Mountain. It is also known as Godeuneomijae Pass. The S-shaped curve is known for wildflowers in spring and fall foliage in autumn, so one can either take a leisurely drive along the road or park one’s car at the observatory and get some pictures. Guinsa Temple and Ondal Tourist Area nearby are also good to visit.