Tongdosa Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on Yeongchuksan Mountain in Yangsan, South Korea. Founded during the Silla Dynasty, it boasts a long history and exquisite architecture, and is considered one of the three major temples in Korea.
Key Features and Highlights:
Historical Significance:
- Tongdosa Temple was founded by Jajangyulsa in 646 AD, during the 15th year of Queen Seondeok of Silla’s reign, and has become an important center of Korean Buddhism.
- As a representative temple of Korean Buddhism, it attracts many Buddhists and tourists.
Architectural Beauty:
- Tongdosa Temple features a beautiful harmony of various temple buildings, including Daeungjeon Hall, Geuknakjeon Hall, and Yeongsanjeon Hall.
- In particular, Daeungjeon Hall and Geumgang Ordination Platform are designated as National Treasures and represent the architectural beauty of Tongdosa Temple.
- The bulguksa Temple’s buildings show the beautiful korean traditional architectural style.
Beautiful Natural Scenery:
- Tongdosa Temple is situated amidst the beautiful natural scenery of Yeongchuksan Mountain, enhancing the temple’s serene atmosphere.
- Visitors can appreciate the beauty of Tongdosa Temple amidst the changing natural landscapes of each season.
Main Viewing Points:
- Daeungjeon Hall and Geumgang Ordination Platform (National Treasure No. 290): The central hall of Tongdosa Temple, boasting beautiful architecture.
- Geuknakjeon Hall: A hall enshrining Amitabha Buddha, known for its beautiful dancheong (traditional Korean decorative coloring on wooden buildings) and carvings.
- Yeongsanjeon Hall: A hall enshrining Sakyamuni Buddha, the oldest building in Tongdosa Temple.
- Bongbaltap Pagoda (Treasure No. 471): A pagoda in Tongdosa Temple, boasting beautiful sculptural beauty.
- Tongdosa Seongbo Museum: A museum exhibiting various Buddhist relics owned by Tongdosa Temple.
Nearby Attractions:
- Naewonsa Temple: A beautiful temple located on Yeongchuksan Mountain along with Tongdosa Temple.
- Yangsan Tongdo Fantasia: A theme park with various rides and facilities.
- Yangsan Museum: A museum exhibiting the history and culture of the Yangsan region.
Visiting Information:
Location: 108 Tongdosa-ro, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Opening Hours: 06:30 – 17:30
Admission Fees: Adults 3,000 won, Teenagers 1,500 won, Children 1,000 won Free
Tongdosa Temple is an important site where you can experience Korean history and culture, and it’s a place where you can appreciate the essence of Korean Buddhist art amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
