Naksansa Temple | Attraction Guide | K-Travel Mate

Naksansa Temple is a famous tourist attraction and a site of great historical value representing Yangyang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. It is an ancient temple founded by monk Uisang in the 11th year of King Munmu of Silla (671) and is counted among Korea's three major pilgrimage sites for Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva along with Ganghwa Bomunsa Temple and Namhae Boriam Hermitage. The temple, with its breathtaking natural scenery overlooking the East Sea, is one of the eight scenic spots of Gwandong (eight scenic spots in Gangwon Province’s Yeongdong area). Its beauty has been celebrated in numerous classical texts and poems since ancient times. Naksansa has undergone several reconstructions and restorations and holds several cultural assets. These include the 16-meter-high Haesugwaneum statue, Uisangdae Pavilion built on a coastal cliff which is a famous East Sea sunrise spot, Hongryeonam Hermitage overlooking the sea, Naksansa Seven-story Stone Pagoda in Yangyang (a treasure) built in the Joseon Dynasty but following Goryeo era style, and the Haesugwaneum Floating Sarira Pagoda and stele with sarira relics and relic ornaments discovered at Naksansa (a treasure) including the Buddha’s true sarira relics. In 2005, a large forest fire destroyed over 20 temple buildings including the bronze bell which was designated a treasure. Temple stay applications can be made through the Naksansa website. ◎ Travel info to experience the charm of Korean Wave - It is recommended to walk on the 'Path where dreams come true,' where Reno walked, placing a small stone on many stone pagodas and making a wish.