 
Hwaom-sa Temple marks one of the major gateways to Jiri-san
National Park in the South Jeolla area. Built beside Masan Stream, one of the park's
main hiking trails starts here and parallels the stream to its headwaters near Nogodan,
one of the major peaks along the Jiri-san backbone. (The hike takes about 3 1/2 hours going up
and 3 hours coming down.) The temple grounds contain many cultural artifacts, and the entire
area has been designated Historic Site and Scenic Area #7.
Built in 554 by Priest Yeongi Chosa, it was later expanded by Priests Uisang Taesa and Toseon
Kuksa. Like so many of Korean temples, it the wooden structures were destroyed during the
1592-98 Japanese invasion. Restoration began in 1630 and was completed in 1636, but with a
somewhat different appearance. The stone lanterns and pagodas survived with little damage
during this period.
Most Koreans regard Gaghwangjeon as the country's most magnificent wooden building.
Built in 1703, it has been designated National Treasure #67. In addition to its own ascetic
beauty, it also houses several gold colored Buddhas and tapestries.
Daeungjeon, the main prayer building and houses the Sakyamuni Buddha. Built in 1636,
it is the temple's oldest building, and has been designated Treasure #299.
Admission: Adults 3,800 won
Directions: National Road #19, Gurye interchange -> turn left at Naengcheon three-way junction -> Magwang three-way junction -> Hwaom-sa |
