A regal image of Sanshin. That’s what first captivated me at Yaksu Buddhist Temple. This temple nestled in Gwanak-gu Seoul holds a unique charm. Its history stretches back possibly to 1421 when a hermit named Kim built a simple hut. Yet some records suggest an even earlier origin. The temple remained a small hermitage until the late 1800s. Empress Myeongseong’s sponsorship led to the construction of a main hall. A fire in 1923 unfortunately destroyed much of the temple. The main hall was later rebuilt. Further expansion continued into the 1990s. Yaksu Buddhist Temple stands as one of Korea’s 982 traditional temples.
The temple’s layout is fascinating. Begin at the parking lot. You will see a modern seven-story pagoda. A stream nearby is home to ducks and chickens. The Geukrak-jeon Hall is a two-story building. It houses a main altar. Here you will find statues of Amita-bul Gwanseeum-bosal and Daesaeji-bosal. Smaller statues fill the hall. A unique feature is the altar for the dead. It features a Jijang-bosal statue. Two portraits of Empress Myeongseong and Emperor Gwangmu flank Jijang-bosal.
Moving to the upper courtyard you’ll find a pool formed by a waterfall. A Yongwang shrine sits by the water. The Beomjong-gak Pavilion houses a bronze bell. The Daeung-jeon Hall is smaller. Its front features ceramic monk statues. Inside you will see statues of Seokgamoni-bul Gwanseeum-bosal and Jijang-bosal. The “Yaksusa Jijang Siwang-do” a Cultural Heritage Materials of Seoul is also there. This painting created in 1914 depicts Jijang-bosal and the Siwang.
Finally there is the Samseong-gak Hall. Here is that stunning Sanshin painting. The nun said it’s unique in style and age. Law students from Seoul National University pray here for success. The hall also has paintings of Chilseong and Dokseong. Yaksu Buddhist Temple offers more than just history. It offers a spiritual journey. It showcases artistic beauty and cultural significance. The temple is a true hidden gem in Seoul. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience.