“Need a pause?” asks the Buddha at Beomeosa Temple. Beomeosa Temple is calling to those needing relaxation. It offers a benevolent smile and comfort. This beautiful temple is located on a quiet mountain trail.
Beomeosa Temple is in Geumjeong-gu, Busan. It ranks as the third largest temple in the Yeongnam area. Haeinsa Temple and Tongdosa Temple are the first two largest. Beomeosa has a long history. It has nurtured many Buddhist monks. It is located at Geumjeongsan Mountain. The temple boasts a beautiful valley. Its outstanding mountains attract visitors all year.
As you enter Beomeosa Temple, you will see old stone structures. These supported a flagpole. You’ll also spot a stepping stone. People used it for mounting or dismounting. The flagpole support has stood for 1300 years. It serves as a guardian. The stepping-stones comfort dead Buddhist monks. They suffered tribute demands from officials. This occurred in the late Joseon Dynasty.
Jogyemun Gate serves as Iljumun Gate. It’s a low door that makes you bend. This emphasizes humility. Stone and wooden pillars harmonize at Jogyemun Gate. The gate shows the architectural style of the mid-Joseon Dynasty.
Daeungjeon Hall is elegant and solid. It is designated as Korean National Treasure 434. The eaves are carved round. This evokes traditional beauty. The podium staircase has patterns from the Silla Period. It also shows the style of the late Joseon era. Explore Daeungjeon Hall to find hidden patterns.
Inside Daeungjeon Hall, you will be amazed. The Buddha Triad Wooden Statues greet visitors. They have friendly smiles. They are designated as Korean National Treasure 1526. The ceiling and paintings depict paradise. This creates a majestic atmosphere. It feels like heaven is here.
Beomeosa Temple has many stone artifacts. Stone lanterns stand at the entrance to Daeungjeon Hall. They show the typical style of the late Unified Silla. Lotus flowers are carved on the upper and lower footstones. They give a sense of grace and simplicity.
The Three-story Stone Pagoda of Beomeosa Temple also shows traces of the Unified Silla. It is renowned as Korean National Treasure 250. The roof stones are thin and flat. They create a stable look. The pagoda conveys the beauty of old Silla.
The wisteria habitat is a good place to rest. It is perfect after walking around the temple. The rock beach is also famous. Countless stones form a colony there. Relax in the green forest. Listen to the sound of water. It will make you feel like you’re in heaven.
Beomeosa was constructed by a monk named Uisang. This happened during the Silla kingdom. Some stone art dates back to the original Silla temple. The temple burned down in 1592 during the Japanese invasion. It was rebuilt in 1613. Daeungjeon, the main hall, was built in 1614. It is an official National Treasure.
Beomeosa played an important role in preserving Korean Buddhism. The Joseon dynasty disliked Buddhism. They closed Buddhist temples in Seoul. They expelled monks and nuns. Beomeosa was far from Seoul. The Joseon monarchy didn’t bother them much.
Busan did not experience bombing during the Korean War. Beomeosa was not wrecked in the 20th century. This is unlike most major Buddhist temples in Korea. Beomeosa has been an important center of Buddhism in Korea throughout history.
Beomeosa has front gates to purify visitors. These gates are set up between stone steps. Many Korean Buddhist temples have similar features. The typical Korean Buddhist temple looks beautiful. Beomeosa provides a good introduction to Korean Buddhist Temples. Beomeosa opens every day from 8 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free.