Seonun-sa

Jeollabuk-do

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This Zen temple, founded in 577 and last rebuilt in 1720, is nestled among verdant hills. Just behind the temple is a 500-year-old camellia forest (동백 나무 숲) that flowers around the end of April. Beyond, hiking trails go up to outlying hermitage, such as Seoksang-am. Seonun-sa has a great templestay (₩50,000) which includes a 'walking meditation' trip up to the hermitages.

It's a 30-minute hike to Dosol-am hermitage and just beyond is a giant Buddha rock carving dating to the Goryeo dynasty.

From Dosol-am, you can you can climb up to Nakjodae, and then loop back down to the temple, passing the hermitage Chamdang-am. The total hike should take about three hours.

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Nearby Jeollabuk-do attractions

1. Seoksang-am

0.27 MILES

This tiny hermitage in the hills of Seonunsan Provincial Park is part of the temple Seonun-sa.

2. Chamdang-am

0.41 MILES

The oldest hermitage at Seonun-sa is located in the hills behind the temple.

3. Dosol-am Hermitage

1.34 MILES

This hermitage is a 30-minute hike from the temple Seonun-sa. Nearby is a giant Buddha rock carving dating to the Goryeo dynasty.

4. Buddha Rock Carving

1.44 MILES

Hike up 30 minutes behind Seonun-sa to this giant Buddha rock carving dating to the Goryeo dynasty; the amazing image is carved into the cliff face and is…

5. Lookout

1.52 MILES

Hike here for views over Seonunsan Provincial Park.

6. Gochang Dolmen Site

6.07 MILES

History buffs will want to stroll the hills surrounding Gochang and ponder the mystery of 440 dolmens, prehistoric tombs from the Bronze and Iron Ages now…

7. Naeso-sa

8.11 MILES

Compared to many temples in Jeollabuk-do, Naeso-sa is a bit underwhelming. Originally built in AD 633 and last renovated in the 19th century, its…

8. Gochang Pansori Museum

8.34 MILES

This small museum has memorabilia on the unique solo opera musical form known as pansori. It's not far from the Moyang Fortress entrance.