Botapsa Temple (Jincheon)

Botapsa Temple in Jincheon-eup, Jincheon-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, is located in Yeongok-ri. The temple site in Yeongok-ri was only known as a large temple site dating from the Three Kingdoms period to the Goryeo Dynasty, but it has been newly revived by erecting a three-story wooden pagoda in its center, continuing the tradition of wooden pagoda architecture from the Three Kingdoms period. Upon passing through Cheonwangmun (Gate of Four Heavenly Kings) and entering the temple grounds, Beomjonggak (Bell Pavilion) and Beobgogak (Drum Pavilion) stand side by side, showcasing their splendor, and further inside, the wooden pagoda, a source of pride here, is located; also within the temple grounds is the Jincheon Yeongok-ri Stone Stele, designated as a treasure. Botapsa attracts attention because its three-story wooden pagoda is modeled after the nine-story wooden pagoda of Hwangnyongsa Temple from the Silla Dynasty. The height of the wooden pagoda, excluding its finial, is 42.73m, and it has 29 pillars supporting it. They adhered to the traditional method of fitting wooden pieces together without using any nails. The first floor enshrines the Buddhas of the Four Directions, the second floor houses scriptures, and the third floor enshrines the Maitreya Triad. It holds historical value for having recreated a wooden pagoda that disappeared after the Silla Dynasty.