 
When entering the road to Sangwon-sa, visitors can enjoy the clear sound of the clean stream running beneath the ice that often doesn't melt until May in a natural ecology that is perfectly preserved. Since the distance to Sangwon-sa is about 8.8 km., the hike is good for visitors with plenty of time and stamina. Visitors who do not have enough of either can go by car to the temple. Much of the road from Woljeong-sa to Sangwon-sa is not paved, so driving may not be advisable for some vehicles.
Sangwon-sa has 3 National Treasures. National Treasure 36 is Korea's oldest dongjong (bronze bell), made during the Silla period. With a height of 1.67 meters and a diameter of 91cm., it is famous for its beautiful sound. National Treasure 221 is Munsudongjasang, which is a sculpted figure that King Sejo saw personally. National Treasure 229 is Jungchanggwonseonmun, which King Sejo personally wrote during the Chosun period to celebrate the rebuilding of Sangwon-sa.
At the entrance to Sangwon-sa is Gwandaegeori, part of a legend related to King Sejo. According to the legend, one time while King Sejo was praying in Sangwon-sa, he went to bathe in Odae-cheon, since the water is so clear. While bathing alone, a young monk passed by and asked is he wanted a back rub. After finishing his bath, King Sejo told the young monk "wherever you go, do not tell anybody that you washed the king's noble body." Then, the young monk said with smile, "Wherever you go, do not tell anybody that you met Munsubosal (a Buddhist saint) up close!" and disappeared. King Sejo was surprised and looked around. He could not find the young monk anywhere. Furthermore, he found that the tumor on his body had completely disappeared. King Sejo was deeply moved by the cure of his incurable disease by the Munsubosal's power, so he ordered a painter to make him a drawing and sculpted wood statue of the young monk.
Admission: The fee is included in admission to park.
Directions: Located within Odae-san National Park
For more pictures, please see page 2.
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