Around Jeongamsa Temple

Jeongamsa Temple

Jeongamsa Temple, located in Gohan-eup, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, is an ancient temple founded by Master Jajang during the Three Kingdoms period. It can be found on the way to Hambaeksan Mountain. Upon entering through Iljumun Gate, Yukhwajeongsa, Mokwoodang, and Beomjongnu (Bell Pavilion) appear in order, standing firmly on stone platforms. Crossing Geungnakgyo Bridge, which spans a narrow waterway that is a habitat for lenoks, you will find Jeokmyeolgung and Sumano Pagoda. This spatial arrangement was highly praised by author Yu Hong-jun. You can truly appreciate his words when you face Jeokmyeolgung and Sumano Pagoda, which stands tall on the hillside behind it. Jeokmyeolgung at Jeongamsa Temple is one of Korea's five great Jeokmyeolbogung (halls where Buddha's relics are enshrined). Master Jajang enshrined the sarira (relics) of the Buddha in Sumano Pagoda and built this hall to pay homage to them. For this reason, there is no statue of Buddha inside the main hall. It is also why Sumano Pagoda, along with Jeokmyeolgung, holds special value. Sumano Pagoda is a National Treasure and represents Jeongseon's Buddhist cultural heritage. It can be seen after climbing a mountain path for about 10 minutes, a short stretch for spiritual practice. As a brick-imitating stone pagoda approximately 9 meters high, its scale is not large, but its well-balanced form is outstanding. It boasts the unique neatness characteristic of brick pagodas. From in front of Sumano Pagoda, the grounds of Jeongamsa Temple can be seen below. If you stay for a while, calming your mind as if in meditation, the temple scenery nestled warmly in the mountains will bring peace to your heart.