Mihwangsa Temple

Mihwangsa Temple, located on the western side of Mt. Dalmasan (489m), also known as the "Geumgangsan of the Southern Provinces," and the southernmost temple on the Korean Peninsula's mainland, was founded in the 8th year of King Gyeongdeok of Silla (749 CE). It once prospered to the extent of having 12 hermitages under its wing, but after monks who set out to reconstruct it 100 years ago were shipwrecked at sea, it gradually began to decline. After being empty for a long time, the temple began to breathe new life when monks Jiun, Hyeongeun, and Geumgang arrived in 1989. Following a decade-long reconstruction project, its various halls, including Myeongbujeon, Daeungbojeon (Treasures), and Eungjindang (Treasures), have been meticulously restored, transforming it into one of the most beautiful temples in Korea. Mihwangsa Temple always offers a fantastic view, with the sunset over the West Sea blending with the strangely shaped rocks and peaks of Mt. Dalmasan. Of particular interest are the unique carvings of sea creatures like turtles and crabs on the foundation stones of Daeungbojeon, rarely seen elsewhere. About a 10-minute walk along the forest path leads to a stupa field where visitors can find simply carved child monks and goblin faces. The mountain summit is about an hour's walk, and the scenery of the Dadohae Archipelago viewed from there is exceptionally beautiful. ◎ Travel Information to Experience the Charm of Hallyu - Drama "Haenam Dalmasan Mihwangsa Temple," the temple Park Ha-kyung visited for a templestay, is located on the mid-slopes of Mt. Dalmasan, completely isolated from the city. Here, one can often see travelers participating in templestays to empty their minds and clear their thoughts. Listening to the sound of wind chimes swaying in the breeze, the subtle scent of incense, and the chanting of Buddhist scriptures by monks, you will likely feel all worries and anxieties disappear.