Around Seonunsa

Seonunsa

Seonunsa Temple is the head temple of the 24th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located on Dosolsan Mountain (also known as Seonunsan Mountain) in Asan-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province. During the late Joseon Dynasty, when Seonunsa prospered, there were 89 hermitages and 189 monastic residences scattered throughout the mountain, forming a magnificent Buddhist land. Along with Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, it is one of the two main temples in Jeollabuk-do, boasting a long history, outstanding natural scenery, and precious Buddhist cultural heritage, making it a place frequented by pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. Originally, the site of Seonunsa was a large pond where a dragon lived. While Monk Geomdan was driving out this dragon and filling the pond with stones, a severe eye disease spread through the village. However, when a sack of charcoal was poured into the pond, the eye disease would miraculously heal. Thus, villagers eagerly brought charcoal and stones, quickly filling the large pond, and Seonunsa was subsequently founded on that site. Monk Geomdan named the temple 'Seonun' (禪雲), meaning 'to attain the state of Seon (meditation) by diligently cultivating oneself while dwelling in the clouds (雲), which represent the realm of profound wisdom.' Currently, it possesses various treasured cultural heritage items, including National Treasures, Natural Monuments, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Tangible Cultural Heritage, and Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Cultural Heritage Materials. Notably, behind the Daeungjeon (Main Hall), a colony of camellia trees, approximately 500 years old and averaging 6 meters in height, has been designated as a Natural Monument. In spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, they create a spectacular sight, like a floral screen unfurled behind the temple.