Naksansa Temple
Naksansa Temple, located in Yangyang, Gangwon-do, is a historically significant site and a premier tourist attraction. Founded by Monk Uisang in 671 during the Silla Dynasty, it is one of Korea’s three great Avalokitesvara prayer sites, alongside Bomunsa and Boriam. Known for its breathtaking views of the East Sea, Naksansa is recognized as one of the Gwandong Palgyeong (eight scenic spots of the Gwandong region) and has been celebrated in classic literature and poetry for centuries. The temple houses various cultural treasures, including the 16-meter-tall Haesu Gwaneumsang (Seawater Avalokitesvara Statue), Uisangdae Pavilion—a renowned sunrise spot perched on a cliff—the cliffside Hongryeonam Hermitage, the Seven-story Stone Pagoda of Naksansa (a treasure displaying Goryeo architectural styles), and the sarira reliquaries discovered within the temple's stupa. Although a major wildfire in 2005 destroyed over 20 buildings, including a historic bronze bell, the temple has been fully restored to its former glory. Travel Tip: Walk the 'Path Where Dreams Come True,' famously visited by Lee Know, and place a stone on one of the many stone pagodas to make a wish.
About this place
Naksansa Temple, located in Yangyang, Gangwon-do, is a historically significant site and a premier tourist attraction. Founded by Monk Uisang in 671 during the Silla Dynasty, it is one of Korea’s three great Avalokitesvara prayer sites, alongside Bomunsa and Boriam. Known for its breathtaking views of the East Sea, Naksansa is recognized as one of the Gwandong Palgyeong (eight scenic spots of the Gwandong region) and has been celebrated in classic literature and poetry for centuries. The temple houses various cultural treasures, including the 16-meter-tall Haesu Gwaneumsang (Seawater Avalokitesvara Statue), Uisangdae Pavilion—a renowned sunrise spot perched on a cliff—the cliffside Hongryeonam Hermitage, the Seven-story Stone Pagoda of Naksansa (a treasure displaying Goryeo architectural styles), and the sarira reliquaries discovered within the temple's stupa. Although a major wildfire in 2005 destroyed over 20 buildings, including a historic bronze bell, the temple has been fully restored to its former glory. Travel Tip: Walk the 'Path Where Dreams Come True,' famously visited by Lee Know, and place a stone on one of the many stone pagodas to make a wish.