Templestay – Naksansa Temple (Yangyang, Gangwon-do)
Introduction to Temple
Naksansa Temple is located in Yangyang, Gangwon-do. The name of the temple is in reference to “Botarakgasan,” which is the mythical mountain, Mt. Potalaka, where Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) is believed to reside. The temple was first founded in 671 A.D. by Uisang-daesa (625-702 A.D.) upon his return from Tang China (618–690, 705–907 A.D.). Throughout the years, Naksansa Temple has been destroyed by fire numerous times. The temple was first destroyed by the invading Mongols during the 13th century. Throughout the years, Naksansa Temple has been rebuilt and expanded numerous times including during the 15th and 17th centuries. Then in 1953, Naksansa Temple was destroyed during the Korean War (1950-1953). The temple would be rebuilt, once more, only to be destroyed by a wildfire on April 4th, 2005. The wildfire would destroy thirteen of the twenty post-Korean War temple buildings. The fire would also destroy the 15th century temple bell at Naksansa Temple, as well, which was a National Treasure. Since this destruction, Naksansa Temple has been rebuilt.
In total, Naksansa Temple conducts two different Templestay programs. The first is the Dream, Follow the Trail Program, which is a one night two day program that focuses on introspection. And the second program at Naksansa Temple is the Taste of Beautiful Scenery and Temple Dinner, which is an afternoon program focusing on a temple tour and meditation.
For more on Naksansa Temple.
Directions
To get to Naksansa Temple, you’ll first need to get to Yangyang Intercity Bus Terminal. From here, you’ll need to take Bus #9 or Bus #9-1 bound for Naksansa Temple. The bus ride takes about ten to fifteen minutes to get to the famous temple.
Templestay Programs
Naksansa Temple offers two different Templestay programs at their temple. The first, which is entitled Dream, Follow the Trail Program, is a one night two day program. And the second program at Naksansa Temple is the Taste of Beautiful Scenery and Temple Dinner Program, which is a five hour afternoon program. Here are their two schedules:
A: Dream, Follow the Trail Program
| Time | Title |
|---|---|
| 14:00-14:30 | Arrival/Check-In |
| 14:30-15:30 | Learn Temple Etiquette |
| 15:30-17:00 | Temple Tour & Meditation |
| 17:00-18:00 | Dinner |
| 19:00-19:20 | Yebul – Evening Service (Voluntary) |
| 21:00-00:00 | Bedtime |
| Time | Title |
|---|---|
| 04:00-04:30 | Yebul – Morning Service (Voluntary) |
| 06:00-06:30 | Breakfast |
| 08:30-09:30 | Making a 108 Prayer Beads Bracelet |
| 11:00-11:30 | Check-Out |
| 11:30-12:30 | Lunch & Departure |
(This schedule is subject to change)
B: Taste of Beautiful Scenery and Temple Dinner Program
| Time | Title |
|---|---|
| 14:00-14:30 | Arrival/Check-In |
| 14:30-15:00 | Learn Temple Etiquette |
| 15:00-17:00 | Temple Tour & Meditaion |
| 17:00-18:00 | Dinner |
| 19:00-19:30 | Evening Service (Voluntary) |
(This schedule is subject to change)
Temple Information
Address: 100 Naksansa-ro, Ganghyeon-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do
Tel: +82 33-672-2798
E-mail: naksansa3@templestay.com
Fees
Dream, Follow the Trail Program – adults – 80,000 won; students (up to 18 years of age) – 80,000 won
Taste of Beautiful Scenery and Temple Dinner – adults – 40,000 won; students (up to 18 years of age) – 40,000 won
Links
Reservations for the Dream, Follow the Trail Program
Reservations for the Taste of Beautiful Scenery and Temple Dinner Program
