Nestling on the side of Mt. Geumjeongsan overlooking Busan is Beomeosa Buddhist temple. Surrounded by lush forest and bamboo groves, along with the fact that this is an active temple with monks still in residence, this is definitely not one to miss.
It’s not the easiest place to find, being near the end of the subway line and bus journey up the mountain (take the No. 90), however, it’s dirt cheap to get in so you can’t complain!
One of the Heavenly Kings standing guard (above) in a gatehouse through which all visitors must pass to enter. Whilst the original 678 temple complex was burnt down by the Japanese in 1952, along with seemingly everything else in Korea, the 1613 reconstruction is certainly showing its age and some parts look badly in need of repair. Hopefully, any restoration work will be sympathetic and not lose its rustic look as has happened with the ancient sites in Beijing.
If you fancy finding your own piece of enlightenment Beomeosa runs a “temple stay” program where you can go and live like a monk for a few days – you can certainly see the appeal of sitting around this sort of place meditating with none of the distractions of modern life.
Above the temple is a hiking path alongside a small stream that leads to the summit. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time that day to get to the top but on a hot day, the cover of the trees are an ideal place to get out of the sun.
I find it more comical than scary to be honest… the eyes are a little freaky though!
ohh i've just found out something interesting in photos. a steeple on the scary statue's palm.
definite it's marvellous
The imps crouching below each of those larger statues were the really disturbing ones. That temple is beautiful and the setting breathes of life.
Thanks for your comment Kate. There’s something about these sorts of mountain temples which I think speaks to everyone regardless of whether you are religious of not. An amazing place which I hope doesn’t become overrun by tourists.