Wolmyeongsa Temple

Wolmyeongsa Temple is located at the foot of Ilgwangsan Mountain in Ilgwang-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan. The entrance begins from 'Samdeok Village,' a community village for Hansen's disease patients. From Busan, one can take National Road 14 via Bansong-dong to Gijang and Ilgwang-myeon, or after passing through the city center of Busan, head towards Songjeong, Gijang, and Ilgwang-myeon via the scenic Haeundae. Ilgwangsan Mountain (日光山), which stands like a folding screen right behind Ilgwang Beach, is famous as Ilgwang Sunset (日光落照), one of the Eight Scenic Views of Ilgwang, due to its particularly beautiful sunset. Wolmyeongsa Temple, located right here at the foot of Ilgwangsan Mountain, is a not-so-well-known temple of the Taego Order. Although it does not boast grand facilities, one can discover charming and unpretentious aspects throughout its courtyards. According to one unofficial account, it was a place of prayer where Buddha statues were enshrined and devotions were offered since ancient times. However, currently, it is only known as a training center founded by Monk Kimbbeopseong of Beomeosa Temple in 1882, with no significant records or relics to corroborate earlier claims. The medicinal spring water gushing from a well within the temple grounds is known as a miracle cure by local villagers, thanks to its long-standing efficacy. Moreover, as Buddhist art artists who are acquainted with Wolmyeongsa Temple (月明寺) are active here, one can frequently see Arhat and child monk statues throughout the temple grounds, which is a delightful sight. It is a place where the sun of Ilgwangsan Mountain and the moon of Wolmyeongsa Temple harmonize beautifully. Sitting as it is, without going against the flow of nature, Wolmyeongsa Temple currently does not have many devotees. However, it is often utilized as a resting place for hikers who use the secluded walking path that starts from the temple grounds, a path that is neither steep nor rough.