Baekdam Temple百潭寺

Baekdamsa is a representative temple located in Naeseorak, situated above Baekdam Valley where the clear waters from Gayadong Valley and Gugokdam converge. It was built by Jajang Yulsa in the first year of Queen Jindeok of Silla (647 CE) and was initially called Hangyesa. Later, it was renamed Baekdamsa, meaning 'Hundred Ponds Temple,' because there are said to be one hundred ponds from Daecheongbong Peak down to the temple. After being destroyed more than ten times, it was reconstructed in 1957 and stands to this day. Compared to the bustling Oeseorak, Baekdamsa is nestled in the serene entrance of Naeseorak, preserving a pristine, near-primeval forest landscape. It serves as a representative spiritual center of Naeseorak Mountain, overseeing remote hermitages such as Bongjeongam and Oseam. Currently, Baekdamsa is recognized as one of Korea's leading ancient temples, boasting 24 buildings. In addition to traditional structures like Geungnakbojeon, Nahanjeon, Sanryeonggak, Beophwasil, and Hwaeomsil, there are the Manhae Memorial Hall and Manhae Education Center, built to embody the literary philosophy and Buddhist spirit of Seonsa Manhae Han Yong-un, as well as other buildings including Iljumun, Geumgangmun, Burimun, Manbokjeon, Yosachae, Manhaedang, Nongamsil, and Jeokseondang. On one side of the valley in front of Baekdamsa, stone pagodas, accumulated over many years by people making wishes, offer an interesting sight.