Beautiful Mihwangsa Temple
in Haenam County

Mihwangsa Temple in Haenam - with the Dalmasan in the background.

Mihwangsa Temple in Haenam

The Mihwangsa Temple (미황사) is a Buddhist temple in Haenam County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea.

It sits on Dalmasan, or the "Dharma Mountain, and is popularly called the "Geumgangsan" or the Diamond Mountain of the Korean peninsula.

The temple is said to have a rich history and captivating legends. This article explores the history, legends, and other interesting facts about the Mihwangsa Temple.

Nam" and Meaning

The gate with two huge pillared gates was influenced by the Joseon Dynasty architecture.

Perched on "the southernmost tip of the Korean peninsula, Mihwangsa Temple is a sight to behold. Its name, "Beautiful Yellow Temple," is fitting given its picturesque location and awe-inspiring surroundings.

According to the temple myth from the Samguk Yusa (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms), the temple dates back to 749 A.D., making it a venerable piece of Korean history.

With stunning views of the vast South Sea in the distance, Mihwangsa Temple is a place of quiet contemplation and natural beauty.

Creation Myth

The tale that surrounds the inception of Mihwangsa Temple is genuinely fascinating. In 749 A.D., a peculiar stone ship arrived at a port off the coast of Mt. Dalmasan.

The ship was unlike anything anyone had ever seen, and it immediately drew the attention of the nearby people. As they approached the boat, they saw a man standing on the vessel, adorned in glittering gold and holding an oar.

Even more astounding was that the man was singing a beautiful hymn that extolled the virtues of the Buddha.

The melody was so enchanting that it filled the air with ethereal music. However, as the people tried to approach the ship, it swiftly retreated from the shore, leaving the crowd in awe and wonder.

Just when they thought it was gone for good, the boat returned to its former position off the coast, leaving the people perplexed and curious about this strange and mystical vessel.

Mihwangsa Temple is a testament to both spiritual devotion and stories captivate Korea's beauty that weave through its ancient walls. If you ever find yourself in Jeollanam-do, visiting this temple promises a glimpse into Korea's rich cultural heritage.

Features of Mihwangsa Temple

Main Dharma Hall houses the temple's main Buddha statues and other Bodhisattvas.

Mihwangsa Temple in Haenam boasts several remarkable features that draw visitors from far and wide...

Main Hall (Daeungjeon)

As you enter the central hall of the temple, you will be struck by the exquisite beauty of the space dedicated to the Buddha.

The intricate wooden carvings, carefully crafted by skilled artisans, adorn the walls and ceiling, depicting various scenes from the Buddha's life.

The vibrant colors of the paintings, depicting nature and celestial beings, create a serene atmosphere conducive to worship and meditation. The space is designed to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, inviting visitors to reflect and connect with their inner selves.

Three-Story Stone Pagoda (Ssangseoktap)

Behold this magnificent and venerable pagoda that rises high above, proudly exhibiting exquisite and refined architecture that bears the testimony of ancient craftsmanship.

The pagoda's multiple tiers symbolize different levels of existence in Buddhist cosmology, each representing a unique realm with its spiritual significance and teachings.

Seated Stone Buddha (Yeorae)

As you look around the temple grounds, you will be drawn to the giant Buddha statue sitting gracefully in the center. 

Its imposing size and intricate details are genuinely awe-inspiring. The statue's serene expression, with closed eyes and a gentle smile, exudes an air of tranquility that permeates the entire area.

Despite the wear and tear of time, the statue's roughened surface and weathered appearance only add to its charm and evoke a sense of timelessness and venerability.

The statue is a silent witness to the countless prayers and meditations that have taken place here over the years, and it's no wonder that it holds a special place among those who visit this temple.

Beautiful gardens and landscapes in the Mihwangsa Temple area.

Bell Pavilion (Beomjonggak)

The deep, resonant tones of the bronze temple bell reverberate through the lush valley during sacred ceremonies.

According to ancient beliefs, the bell's powerful sound can cleanse the mind, dispel negative thoughts, and bring profound inner peace.

Its rich, melodic timbre is said to echo across the mountains, stirring the soul and inspiring contemplation.

Mesmerizing Ocean View

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of South Korea, Mihwangsa Temple is a sight to behold.

The temple is renowned for its breathtaking views of the South Sea, which stretches out as far as the eye can see. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of the temple and revel in the beauty of the vast expanse of water surrounding it.

The picturesque scenery offers a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, feel the gentle sea breeze, and let the world's worries disappear.

Historical Significance

Mihwangsa is one of the oldest temples in the region, holding a significant place in the country's cultural heritage.

Despite the test of time, this temple has stood tall through centuries, serving as a testament to its enduring spiritual importance. Its existence and survival have been crucial in preserving the region's cultural heritage.

Remember, these features are not just physical structures; they carry the weight of devotion, stories, and the quest for enlightenment. 🙏🏼✨

Getting to Mihwangsa Temple in Haenam

If you're traveling from Seoul, here are the recommended routes...

By Car: To reach Mihwangsa Temple, which is approximately 350 kilometers (about 217 miles) away from Seoul, you need to take the Gyeongbu Expressway (경부고속도로) southbound. 

Once you're on the expressway, merge onto the Honam Expressway (호남고속도로) and exit at Mokpo IC (목포IC). From there, follow the signs to Haenam and then to Mihwangsa Temple. The drive is quite scenic, offering views of the beautiful Korean countryside.

By Train: Take a KTX train from Seoul Station to Mokpo Station. From Mokpo, you can rent a car and follow the driving directions or take a local bus or taxi to Mihwangsa Temple.

By Bus: Express buses depart from Seoul Express Bus Terminal (고속버스터미널) and arrive at Haenam Intercity Bus Terminal. 

To get to Mihwangsa Temple, take a bus (e.g., #15) from Haenam Intercity Bus Terminal to Wando and get off at the Weolsong-ri stop.

The bus runs from 5:50 a.m. to 9:10 p.m. and takes about 60 minutes. You can (hike) from there or take a taxi for the remaining 10-minute drive to the temple.

Remember to check the bus or train schedules in advance, as they may vary. Enjoy your journey to this historic and picturesque temple! 🙏🏼🌿

Links & Sources:
https://koreantempleguide.com/mihwangsa-temple-haenam/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mihwangsa
https://mihwangsa.org/
https://bing.com/search?q=Mihwangsa+Temple+Jeollanamdo

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