천운사

Tucked away in the tranquil embrace of Jirisan National Park sits Cheoneunsa Temple. A haven of serenity, Cheoneunsa Temple whispers tales of resilience and rebirth. Originally founded in 828 AD as Gamnosa Temple, meaning “Sweet Dew Temple”, its name honored the refreshing spring water that flowed like morning dew. The spring, they said, cleansed both body and soul, drawing monks from far and wide. Cheoneunsa Temple thrived, even earning recognition as the best temple in the southern region during the Goryeo Dynasty. But tranquility is often fleeting. The Imjin War brought devastation, reducing the temple to ashes. Yet, like a phoenix, it rose again. Rebuilt and renamed Cheoneunsa Temple, meaning “Hidden Springs Temple,” a new chapter began. Legend speaks of a large serpent guarding the spring during the reconstruction. When the serpent was killed, the spring water mysteriously vanished. This tragic event gave Cheoneunsa Temple its current name. Fires continued to plague the rebuilt temple. Townspeople believed this was a consequence of slaying the serpent. Finally, the renowned calligrapher Lee Gwangsa intervened. He crafted a plaque inscribed with “Jirisan Cheoneunsa,” its characters flowing like water, and instructed the monks to place it on the Iljumun Gate. Miraculously, the fires ceased. Today, Cheoneunsa Temple stands as a testament to its enduring spirit. Its Geukrakbo-jeon Hall houses stunning murals depicting Amita-bul guiding souls to the afterlife. The Palsang-jeon Hall showcases the eight scenes from the Buddha’s life. The upper courtyard holds four more shrine halls, each with its own unique treasures. And hidden at the back, a stone shrine to Sanshin, the Mountain Spirit, connects the temple to ancient traditions. Cheoneunsa Temple invites you to discover its hidden springs of history and serenity.