Heungbu Hermitage興府庵

Heungbuam (興府庵), a sacred site of Gaya Buddhism, is located on a steep spot at the peak of Gimhae's Imhosan (林虎山), which is shaped like a crouching tiger. It was a temple built by Jangyuhwasang (長遊和尙) during the time of King Suro of Garakguk to pray for the prosperity of the capital. The mountains surrounding the mystical land of 'Garakguk' have, since ancient times, been shaped like turtles, dragons, tigers, and so on. Because of this, the people of Gimhae believe that one day, a great king who disappeared after King Suro will emerge again from this place. Imhosan, which holds such energy, is called by various names such as Yumin San Yumin-san, Gajo-san, Hogu-san, Anmin San Anmin-san, Bongmyeong-san, and Imo-san Imeo-san. It is said that Imhosan (林虎山) was named because its shape resembles a tiger's head, true to its name. Heungbuam, located in the center of Geumgwan Gaya, the central region of the ancient Gaya Kingdom, is said to have been founded in 48 AD by Jangyuhwasang, Queen Heo Hwang-ok's elder brother.