Since Korea have been suffered from a lot of wars, few cultural assets have been passed down. Most temples were lost during Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592, Japanese colonial era and Korean war. Most temples have been reconstructed after wars. Yongheungsa temple had been totally burned in Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592 and burned again by the royal forces during Japanese colonial era, and damaged during Korean war. It has been reconstructed recently. And admission fee is free. Most of temples are charged for cultural asset management. But you should donate some money, instead. Now, here we go!
The snow has been melted except for the foot of a mountain. The temple is so small that I can see a pavilion from Iljumun gate. The word “Yonggusan mountain Yongheungsa temple” is written on the signboard of Iljumun gate. Usually, temple is named after mountain to distinguish other temples. There are Yongheungsa temple in Hamgyong province, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province sangju and Hapcheon.
I like Yongheungsa temple because of clean valley near temple. Blue moss grows on rocks, and transparent water flows below. I want to take a picture close to rock, but I don't want to kill moss.
Walking alone in a quiet temple is so great. So, can I go to the world of truth after passing the Four Devas gate?
I can see burned place during the war, and the door to the main temple after entering the Four Devas gate. The main temple and Yosachae are the only buildings in temple except for Gongyangso and a temple office.
I like quiet atmosphere in winter temple. I prayed for my wish while rotating stone statue as there is none of pagoda. I hope your dream come true.
Water is dropping from the melted roof tile. Blue moss shows up. I think spring is coming.
I can see the main hall after passing the narrow tunnel. Some people say it was built in the Baekje period, and it has been called “Yonggusa temple”. But the history is uncertain. Suk-bin Choe bowed down here, and gave birth to King Yeong-jo. The name of temple was changed “Yongheungsa” as king was born.
The patterns of door and dancheong(traditional multicolored paintwork on wooden buildings) are so beautiful. I admired the beauty. After King Yeong-jo was born, the temple became the best temple in Honam region. Over 48 buildings were established at that time. The accommodation for a court lady was built after Yeong-jo ascended the throne. But all of buildings were burned by Japan in the Japanese colonial period because they were used for Korean army raised in the cause of justice.
Only a few buildings have been restored now, and I hope they recover their reputation again. The altar portrait of Buddha of Youngsanhubool is impressive, and copper bell on the left corner of statue of the Buddha is elegant. That copper bell was made in 1644, and it is No. 1555 treasure with wonderful formativeness and sophisticated pattern. Anyways, I bowed down to Buddha and Buddhist saint, and donated money.
Who scattered flowers on a snowfield? That may be the result of a certain ceremony, so I just passed by. The flowers have not been deserted, I think. :-)
The valley of Yongheungsa is so amazing. If you want to enjoy the valley, you should use the camping ground named “Sangroksu sanjang” under the temple.
Just like this. You can set a tent, or stay in a caravan. I want to spend one night at this beautiful moss valley next time.
You can find Wolwan reservoir after walking for a while from the temple. There are some restaurants and trails. I like these attractions. Now the ice has been melt due to the warm temperature, but you can enjoy sled here in winter.
I found a dog on the road when I was about to leave the temple.
I think they are home dogs. They follow me well. They get into my car, and invite me and my wife. I met them at the same place again. :-)
They like biscuits that I give. The plump dog behind want to eat some biscuits, too. So I gave them biscuits evenly after getting off my car.
The dogs keep following me. I like a dog and a cat, so I am very pleasant when I see them on the street. I hope to meet them during my trip next time.
Even though Yongheungsa temple doesn't have splendid relics or beautiful scenery, it is good place to take a walk. I like the camping ground, the reservoir and valley near the temple. It may be not the perfect place for those who want to see attractions. But I strongly recommend Yongheungsa temple for those who love quiet atmosphere.
+ Address: Yongheungsa temple gil 442, Wolsan-myeon, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do
+ Contact information: 061-382-0574
+ Admission fee, parking fee: free
