YANGSAN CITY

Description

Naewonsa Valley, which is located below Naewonsa Temple, depicts the natural beauty of lush forests and clear streams. The two valleys on the side of Naewonsa Temple and Nojeon Hermitage have long been known as the Sogeum River, while the deep, natural scenery is so mysterious that the sight of clear, clean water flowing through the stones all year long is enough to make you forget all your troubles and delusions in a single breath. The valley is visited by vacationers in the summer, and by hikers in the spring, fall, and winter. The jelly made from acorns collected in the mountains is not only delicious, but is also widely known as a health food. Naewonsa Valley was designated as Gyeongsangnam-do Monument No. 81 on January 14, 1985.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Cheonseong, Naewonsa Temple is said to have been founded by Daedunsa Temple during the Silla Dynasty, when Daedunsa Temple was built by monk Won Hyo, who built 89 hermitages surrounding it. Naewonsa Temple was one of them, and was called Naewonsa Site before being renamed as Naewonsa Temple. It was rebuilt by Buddhist nun Suok in 1958 after it was gutted by fire during the Korean War. It is now famous as the best prayer hall for female monks in the country. The surrounding hermitages, including Nojeonam, Seongbulam, Geumbongam, Anjeokam, and Jogyeam, are nestled amongst dense forests and rocky cliffs, resembling a painting.

Directions

Car

• Gyeongbu Expressway Tongdosa I.C → National Road 35 → Local Road 1025 → Naewonsa Temple

Bus

• Take a local bus toward Eonyang at Yangsan Intercity Bus Terminal (every 10 minutes) → Get off at the entrance of Naewonsa Temple (30-minute walk to the ticket office)
• Take bus No. 11, 12, or 13 → Get off at the entrance of Naewonsa Temple (30-minute walk to the ticket office)