Beopjusa (Beopju Temple)

     This past Sunday I went to Beopjusa which is located on the southwestern slopes of Mt. Songnisan which is about 2 hours away from Choenan by bus.The temple was founded by the great monk Uishinjosa (의신조사) in 553 during the Silla Kingdom. Although the magnificent temple is dedicated to the worship of the Maitreya Buddha, it was built with the hope that ancient Korea’s Three Kingdoms would be reunified. Sadly, Some 14 centuries later millions are still hoping for a unified Korean peninsula.
    

    The buildings on site have been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout its history but now it houses the country's only remaining five story wooden pagoda known as the Daeungbojeon. A five story pagoda like this was the inspiration for Bruce Lee and the making of the movie Game of Death. Unfortunately Bruce Lee died before the movie was ever finished.This pagoda was originally built in 553 and was rebuiltin 1624. The above two pictures are of Daeungbojeon.

     Another interesting structure is the Ssangsajasekdeung (Twin Lion Stone Lantern). It was built in 720. The above two pictures are of Ssangsajasekdeung.

     Most people however come here to see the 33 meter tall (108 feet) bronze standing Buddha which was built here in 1990. As you can see there is still no shortage of snow here in Korea especially when you get in areas located close to mountains. It was definitely a very relaxing day being at a temple being surrounded by pine trees. This Buddha cost of a little over four million dollars with a lot of money being raised by private donations.

     I have included some other random pictures (see above)from the three kilometer walk to Beopjusa from the Songnisan bus terminal. The rest of the pictures from Beopjusa can be found on Facebook.



CHOENAN DUDE