Gochang Seonun Temple禪雲寺

Seonunsa Temple is the head temple of the 24th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located on Dosolsan Mountain (兜率山) in Asan-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province. Dosolsan Mountain is also known as Seonunsan Mountain (禪雲山), and during the late Joseon Dynasty when Seonunsa flourished, 89 hermitages and as many as 189 monastic residences (寮舍) were scattered throughout the mountain, forming a magnificent Buddhist land. Along with Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, it is one of the two major head temples of Jeollabuk-do, possessing a long history, outstanding natural scenery, and precious Buddhist cultural heritage, making it a place where pilgrims and tourists visit tirelessly throughout all four seasons. Originally, the site of Seonunsa was a large pond where a dragon lived, but around the time Monk Geomdan drove out this dragon and began filling the pond by throwing stones, a severe eye disease spread through the village. However, when a sack of charcoal was poured into the pond, the eye disease would heal as if washed away. Thus, villagers eagerly brought charcoal and stones, quickly filling the large pond, and Seonunsa Temple was subsequently founded on that spot. Monk Geomdan is said to have named the temple 'Seonun' (禪雲), meaning 'to achieve the state of Seon (Zen meditation) by diligently cultivating oneself while dwelling in the clouds (雲), which are the realm of profound wisdom.' Currently, it holds various sacred cultural heritage items, including National Treasures, Natural Monuments, Tangible Cultural Heritage of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, and Cultural Heritage Materials of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province. Particularly behind the Daeungjeon (Main Hall), a cluster of camellia trees, approximately 500 years old and averaging 6 meters in height, is designated as a Natural Monument. In spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, they create a spectacular sight, as if a screen of flowers has been unfurled behind the temple.