Seonamsa Temple (Busan)仙巖寺

Seonamsa is a sub-temple of Beomeosa, the head temple of the 14th diocese of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It was founded by Wonhyo in 675. At the time of its founding, it was called Gyeongangsa Temple. It is said that its name was changed to Seonamsa as Hwarang practiced martial arts on a cliff rock behind the temple, and it is also said that Gakcho changed it during its reconstruction in 1483. It was renovated by Shinyon in 1568, Seono in 1718, Dongun in 1918, and Hyesu in 1955. Seonamsa operates rest-type Templestays and hosts various programs such as a Buddhist liberal arts college, the Wonhyo Choir, a Buddhist volunteer group, pottery making, and Dragon King prayers. Seonamsa's facilities include a pure land Dharma hall centered around Daeungjeon (the Main Buddha Hall), with Geuknakjeon (Hall of Paradise), Gwaneumjeon (Hall of Avalokiteshvara), Myeongbujeon (Hall of Judgment), Josajeon (Hall of Patriarchs), Chilseonggak (Hall of Seven Stars), Sanshingak (Hall of the Mountain Spirit), monks' living quarters, and a bell pavilion. The camellia trees on the stone wall are beautiful. The stone bridge in the valley flowing through the temple grounds is Geungnakgyo (Bridge of Paradise), and the small waterfall flowing behind the Yongwangdan (Dragon King Altar) is Seonam Falls.