Healing Journey through the Cedar Forest at Naeso Temple, Jeonbuk
Naeso Temple in Buan, Jeonbuk, is a representative temple of the region, embodying a thousand years of tranquility. The name 'Naeso' (來蘇寺) carries a profound meaning: 'Anyone who enters here is reborn anew.'
If you're looking to set aside the weariness of daily life and find true peace in nature, this healing destination is perfect for you. Let's delve into the long history of Naeso Temple and the charm of its lush cedar forest path.
Founded in 633 AD during the Baekje Kingdom by monk Hyeguduta, Naeso Temple originally consisted of two structures, Daesoraesa and Sosoraesa. Over time, Daesoraesa was lost, and only Sosoraesa has continued to exist in its current location.
During the Joseon Dynasty, the temple suffered the pain of destruction during the Imjin War, losing many of its buildings. However, in 1633, monk Cheongmin rebuilt several structures, including the main hall, marking a new beginning for the temple.
At this time, the temple was renamed 'Naeso Temple,' reflecting the Buddhist belief in reincarnation. After significant renovations during the sixth year of Gojong's reign, the serene and dignified Naeso Temple we see today was established.
As you pass through the entrance, you are welcomed by the beautiful cedar forest path that unfolds like a moving experience. Before your visit, please refer to the following information:
Naeso Temple Visiting Information
◆ Visiting Hours: 7 AM to 6 PM (Winter season)
Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended to fully enjoy the tranquility of the less-crowded forest path.
◆ Admission Fee: Free
◆ Parking: Public parking available
◆ Parking Fee (for passenger cars): 1,100 won for the first hour / 250 won for every additional 10 minutes
The true charm of Naeso Temple begins the moment you pass through the entrance. Nestled under the slopes of Nunggasan, a 600-meter-long cedar forest path leads to the Cheonwangmun, where the Four Heavenly Kings are enshrined. This path is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, ranking among the 'Top Three Cedar Forest Paths' in South Korea, alongside Odaesan Woljeongsa and Sogrisan Beopjusa.
Approximately 700 majestic cedar trees create a vast green tunnel. This natural healing space, filled with fresh oxygen and phytoncides, offers more than just a pleasant walking trail. Just breathing deeply here can refresh your spirit.
At the end of the cedar forest path, the maple forest path leads to Cheonwangmun, transforming into a vibrant red during autumn, making it a representative scenic spot of Honam.
As you stroll through the tunnel of maple leaves, take in the serene atmosphere of this ancient temple.
Upon entering Cheonwangmun, the main structures of Naeso Temple come into view against the backdrop of Nunggasan. Here are some key cultural heritage sites preserved by Naeso Temple.
Within the temple grounds stands a 700-year-old zelkova tree, a guardian spirit that measures 20 meters tall and 7.5 meters in circumference. This miraculous tree has protected the temple and its village for centuries, and every year during the first full moon of the lunar calendar, the 'Naeso Temple Seokpori Dangsanje' is held, bringing warmth and community to the residents.
Next to the zelkova tree is the 'Buan Naeso Temple Bell,' recently designated as a national treasure. Cast in 1222 by the master craftsman Han Jung-seo during the late Goryeo period, it showcases exquisite lotus patterns and intricate reliefs of the three Buddhas, representing the unique artistry of the Goryeo Dynasty. This bell is the largest of its kind from the late Goryeo period and holds significant historical value.
Built in 1412 during the reign of King Taejong, Bongraeru serves as the main entrance to the Daeungbojeon. Its natural stone foundation and unprocessed wooden pillars enhance the serene beauty of the temple.
Ascending the stairs past Bongraeru, you will find the three-story stone pagoda of Naeso Temple, a 3.4-meter-high structure built during the Goryeo period. It exemplifies the typical stone pagoda style of Unified Silla while possessing a slender form that narrows sharply towards the top, recognized as a cultural heritage of Jeonbuk.
The main hall, Daeungbojeon, is a masterpiece of mid-Joseon Buddhist architecture. It features a traditional wooden structure that does not use nails, adorned with splendid dancheong (traditional Korean decorative painting) and the valuable mural of 'Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.'
Professor Yoo Hong-jun, director of the National Museum of Korea, praised Naeso Temple as one of Korea's 'Top Five Temples.' The 'Lotus and Chrysanthemum Pattern Window' on the front facade is considered a pinnacle of traditional Korean woodworking.
Looking up at the ceiling of Daeungbojeon, you will find a unique carving of a 'dragon' holding a fish (mokgeo) in its mouth. This symbolizes the dragon that protects the law and prevents fires, combined with the fish that encourages meditation day and night.
According to legend, a carpenter transformed from a tiger built this structure, while a mischievous young monk hid a wooden beam. The carpenter completed the building with the remaining wood and carved this dragon holding a fish to hang from the ceiling. You can still see one corner of the ceiling where a beam is missing.
Built in 1440, Seolseondang (Treasure) serves as a living and practice space for monks. Its unique 'ㅁ' shaped structure encloses a courtyard, preserving the natural topography and showcasing the practical beauty of traditional architecture.
Today, we introduced the thousand-year-old Naeso Temple, a cultural heritage of Jeonbuk. When you need a moment to pause in your busy life, create a healing experience at Buan Naeso Temple, inhaling the fragrant cedar aroma and purifying your spirit.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224335412553
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