Golden Geumsansa Temple
in Gimje City

Stone artifacts and pagoda at Geumsansa Temple in Gimje City.

Geumsansa Temple in Gimje

Nestled in the picturesque valley of a serene river on the western slopes of Moaksan Provincial Park lies the breathtaking Geumsansa Temple, famously known as the "Golden Mountain Temple."

This awe-inspiring temple is located in Gimje, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea. It is a fascinating place to visit and explore, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

The temple's intricate architecture, serene surroundings, and rich cultural heritage offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

History

The ancient temple has a rich and fascinating history spanning over several centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the reign of King Beop of Baekje, who established the temple in either 599 or 600 A.D.

Over time, the temple underwent several renovations and expansions, with the most significant one occurring during the eighth century under the guidance of the revered monk Jinpyo.

During the Goryeo Dynasty and the Joseon Dynasty, the temple underwent numerous changes and upgrades, each leaving a unique mark on the temple's architecture and cultural significance.

Despite the many changes, the temple remains a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the region.

Structures and Sceneries

Deep in the heart of the temple lies a historic treasure - the original Mireuk-jeon Hall, a magnificent structure that has stood the test of time since it was first built in 766 A.D.

This exquisite hall is home to three awe-inspiring bronze statues that stand tall and proud, exuding a sense of grandeur that is hard to ignore.

And if that wasn't enough, the Gyedan (Precepts Altar) is another marvel to be noticed. This sacred altar houses the precious holy relics of the Buddha, a rare and sacred sight that will leave a lasting impression on all who behold it.

Events and Activities

Geumsansa Temples

Geumsansa Temple in Gimje City, South Korea, offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the temple's rich culture and history through its "Templestay" program.

This program is available every day of the week and includes an array of exciting activities designed to help visitors experience the temple's true essence. 

During the Templestay program, visitors will enjoy a tour of the temple grounds, where they can learn about its history and significance. They will also have the opportunity to make 108 prayer beads and 108 bows, which are important practices in Buddhism.

Additionally, visitors can participate in meditation sessions led by experienced and knowledgeable monks. 

To further enrich the experience, visitors can join a Buddhist ceremony, which is a significant aspect of the temple's daily routine. Moreover, they can go on a scenic hike up Mt. Moaksan, an adventure offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. 

It's important to note that the exact schedule of activities may vary, so visitors should contact the temple for further information.

By participating in the Templestay program at Geumsansa Temple, visitors can immerse themselves in a new culture, gain new insights, and create unforgettable memories.

Geumsansa Temple Facilities 

Two-pillared gate at Geumsansa Temple in Gimje City. This type of gate structure is common during the Joseon Period.

Geumsansa Temple, located in South Korea, is a magnificent Buddhist temple that boasts a rich cultural heritage. 

The temple is home to one National Treasure and ten additional Korean Treasures, each of which represents a unique aspect of Korea's rich history and culture. 

During the Imjin War (1592-1598), the temple served as a training ground for the Righteous Army, which adds to its historical significance. 

The restoration of Geumsansa Temple began in 1601 and took over thirty years to complete, finally finishing in 1635.

Most of the temple buildings still standing today, including the rebuilt Mireuk-jeon Hall, date back to this period.

The intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and stunning architecture of the temple make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean culture and history.

I hope this information helps you understand more about Geumsansa Temple's rich history and cultural significance. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Getting to Jeonju Bus Terminal

There are several ways to get from Seoul to Jeonju:

To travel from Seoul to Jeonju, you have three transportation options:

By Bus: A bus departs every 20 minutes from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal and travels to Jeonju. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

By Train: You can take a train from Yongsan Station to Jeonju Station, which departs hourly. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, the distance between Seoul and Jeonju is approximately 211.3 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach your destination.

Jeonju Express Bus Terminal

To get to Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, you'll first need to get to the Jeonju Express Bus Terminal.

From here, you'll need to take Bus #79. The bus first leaves this terminal at 6:24 a.m., and they stop running at 10:45 p.m. This bus leaves the terminal every twenty-five minutes.

Please note that the schedule may vary, so checking the latest bus schedule before your trip is always a good idea. Enjoy your visit to Geumsansa Temple!

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Safe travels!

Nearby Attractions

While you're in the area, take adavantage of dropping by and exploring the nearby attractions of Geumsansa Temple...

Moaksan Scenic Trail: This scenic trail in Moaksan Provincial Park is a popular attraction for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and rivers and is ideal for an adventurous hike.

Jeonju Hanok Village: Located in the city of Jeonju, this traditional Korean village is a must-visit destination for tourists. The village features over 800 traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks, preserved for over 500 years. Visitors can explore the village's narrow alleys, traditional markets, and cultural landmarks.

Gunsan Modern History Museum: This museum in Gunsan provides a glimpse into the city's fascinating history and culture. The museum features a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that showcase the city's development from a small fishing village to a bustling industrial hub. Visitors can learn about the city's unique architecture, customs, and traditions.

Sources:
https://www.geumsansa.org/
https://bing.com/search?q=Geumsansa+Temple+in+Jeollabukdo
https://koreantempleguide.com/geumsansa-temple-%EA%B8%88%EC%82%B0%EC%82%AC-gimje-jeollabuk-do/
https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Seoul/Jeonju

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