Beopheungsa Temple法興寺

Located at the foot of Saja Mountain in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, Beopheungsa Temple was founded in 643, the 12th year of Queen Seondeok's reign in Silla, by Master Jajang Yulsa, who prayed for the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of its people. This place, which began as Heungnyeongsa Temple with the enshrinement of the Buddha's true sarira, later became the central temple of Sajasansanmun, one of the Gusan Seonmun (Nine Mountain Schools of Seon), when Jinghyojeoljung, a disciple of the Silla Seon master Doyun, opened a Seon (Zen) school. Even after being rebuilt in 1163 during the reign of King Uijong of Goryeo, it underwent several destructions and reconstructions until the Joseon Dynasty, continuing its Buddhist lineage, and has preserved its historical significance through the long ages. Beopheungsa Temple, surrounded by a dense pine forest, is one of Korea's five great Jeokmyeolbogung (temples housing the Buddha's true sarira), and in its tranquil atmosphere, one can experience profound Buddhist culture. Within the temple grounds remain three stone pagodas, a Guardian Stone Seated Buddha, the earthen cave where Master Jajang Yulsa meditated, and the Jeokmyeolbogung, all hinting at the former grandeur of Heungnyeongseonwon. Additionally, through various cultural assets such as the Saritap (Pagoda for Relics) (Gangwon-do Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 73), the Boin Pagoda of Master Jinghyo at Heungnyeongsa (Treasure No. 612), the Stupa of Master Jinghyo (Gangwon-do Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 72), and the Heungnyeongseonwonji (Site of Heungnyeong Seonwon Temple) (Gangwon-do Monument No. 6), one can explore the temple's profound history and tradition.