Images of Naksansa Temple, South Korea

Naksansa is a Buddhist temple located in Yangyang, Gangwondo, South Korea. It is a 1300 year old temple that was built by Ui-Sang, the ambassador of the 30th King of the Silla Period. The temple is spread out over a large area and houses numerous cultural assets. Noteable assets include a seven-story pagoda ‘Chilcheung Seoktab’, the Hongyaemun Gate, and the Dongjong copper bell. There is also a large stone statue of Buddha, the Haesugwaneumsang, which is the largest of its kind in the orient.

One of the most picturesque areas of Naksansa Temple is the Uisangdae Pavillon. Built on top of a cliff by the sea, this is the place where Ui-Sang would sit and meditate. Nearby on an opposite cliff is the Hongryeonam Temple. This small temple is built on top of a stone cave through which you can view the ocean below.

Naksansa Temple is also a Templestay destination. Participants of this cultural program can experience the life of Buddhist practitioners, from early morning communes with nature, meditation and connecting with your inner voice. What better place to do this than among the pine trees, seaside cliffs, and tranquil surroundings of Naksansa.

This is a portion of an article I wrote and photographed for Seoul Magazine August 2017 issue, including images that were not included in the final article.