Naewon-sa | |
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Naewon-sa is well-known as a temple for Buddhist nuns. Burnt down during the
Korean War, it was reconstructed in 1958 by the monk Suok. The valley leading to the temple is deep
and beautiful, with a cool stream flowing through it. Tourists are lured by its cool, clear water in the
summer. Hikers enjoy the ever-changing landscapes in spring, autumn, and winter. Nearby is a famous shop
selling Chinese herbal medicines.
Three Story PagodaThis pagoda (designated Treasure #1113) comprises a foundation of a base and pedestal and its three-story body is typical of the Shilla period. The corner and center pillars on each story, the four-stepped cornices of each roof stone, and the design of the roof and body of each story all have typical Shilla characteristics. Destroyed by thieves during the 1950s, it was restored by the temple's chief monk Hong Chin-shik in 1961. The topmost roof stone is quite damaged and the finial is missing. 
Seated Vairocana of Songnam-amThis stone image of Vairocana, the Buddha of Light, is from Songnam-am temple in Jiri-san, and has been designated Treasure #1021. According to a record retrieved from its pedestal, the Buddha was sculpted in 766. The Buddha has a round, well-caved face with a graceful, benevolent expression. The hands are held together on the chest in a gesture typical of Vairocana that shows the Buddha and the multitude are one. It has a pedestal and also a nimbus which is ornately decorated in a lotus design. It is carved in a vivid, realistic style that prevailed during the 8th century. It is often compared with the Buddha in the Kyongju's Sokkuram Grotto. It is one of the earliest sculptured Vairocana statues from the Shilla period. Admission: Adults 1,300 won, Youths 1,000 won, Children 800 won Parking 2,000 won Directions: Gyeongbu Expressway, Tongdo Interchange -> Naewon-sa 
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