TEMPLE ADVENTURES Seokbul Temple is worth repeat visits
The first time I visited Seokbul Temple back in the spring of 2004, it took my breath away. And every visit since, it has continued to amaze me with its utter beauty. While some temples can run together into one indistinguishable memory, Seokbul Temple isn’t one of these. Situated among the clouds, high above Busan in the southern foothills of Mount Geumjeong (801.5 meters), Seokbul Temple is simply stunning. Seokbul Temple, which means “Stone Buddha Temple” in English, was first constructed around 1930. Originally, it was known as Byeongpung Hermitage, which means “Folding Screen Hermitage” in English. The original name of the temple comes from its very location. Located on Mount Geumjeong, the folds of the mountain’s rocks comprise a large part of the temple’s grounds. However, with the creation of 20 large stone reliefs in the 1960s, it changed its name from Byeongpung Hermitage to Seokbul Temple. Making your way up the steep paved road, and past the sentry-like bell pavilion that jets out from the face of the temple’s front facade, you’ll notice a gray metal entra
Apr 7, 2024By Dale Quarrington
