1. Introduction to Sangwonsa Temple, Gangwon-do (Simplified & Active Voice)

Welcome to Sangwonsa Temple! This hidden spiritual treasure sits deep inside Odaesan National Park in Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do. The hermitage has a profound connection to the Bodhisattva Manjusri (Munsu Bosal). Its breathtaking natural surroundings offer visitors a truly unique glimpse into Korean history and Buddhist culture.

A Temple of Royal Heritage and Divine Beginnings

The temple was first founded in 705 AD during the Silla Kingdom. At that time, people called the site Jinyeowon (眞如院). Two Silla princes, Bocheon and Hyomyeong, established the temple. Legend says the elder brother, Bocheon, chose the location. He saw a blue lotus bloom right there.

The temple’s history is deeply connected to Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. According to the Samguk Yusa (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms), the two princes dedicated their lives to spiritual practice on Odaesan. They fetched water daily to brew tea. They offered this tea in solemn reverence to the 10,000 incarnations of Manjusri. Bocheon later gave a mandate. He ordered people to transform Jinyeowon into a sacred place. This place would promote national welfare through faith and practice. They dedicated it to Manjusri and the study of the Prajnaparamita Sutra and Avatamsaka Sutra.

The Iconic Bronze Bell of Sangwonsa: National Treasure No. 36 🔔

Sangwonsa holds one of Korea’s most significant cultural artifacts: the Bronze Bell of Sangwonsa (National Treasure No. 36). People cast this bell in 725 AD during the Silla period. Experts consider it the oldest, most beautiful, and perfectly preserved Silla bell that exists today.

The bell is famous for its exquisite craftsmanship. You can see delicate relief carvings, including flying apsaras (celestial beings) and intricate floral patterns. The Sangwonsa Bell has a unique, deep, and clear resonance. Many people cite it as the pinnacle of ancient Korean metalwork. Today, visitors see a replica of the bell. (People keep the original safe and preserved.) Experiencing its form and learning its history is an essential part of your Sangwonsa visit.

A Spiritual Haven in Majestic Odaesan

The temple sits in the Jungdae (Middle Peak) of Odaesan (Five Peaks Mountain). The park’s dense, ancient forests completely surround the area. Odaesan is one of Korea’s most revered mountains. People celebrate it for its pristine natural environment and deep tranquility. The clean air, the soothing sound of the valley water, and the quiet reverence of the grounds offer a perfect escape. This environment makes Sangwonsa an ideal location for meditation. You can experience the raw, untamed beauty of Gangwon-do’s mountain landscape here.

2. How to Get to Sangwonsa Temple, Gangwon-do

Sangwonsa Temple is located within the remote but accessible Odaesan National Park near Pyeongchang. Getting to this spiritual sanctuary is straightforward, and you will enjoy scenic views along the way.

Getting There from Seoul (Recommended)

Your trip from Seoul will combine express transportation and local transit.

1. By KTX Train (Fastest): Take the KTX from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station. Get off at Jinbu (Odaesan) Station (진부(오대산)역). The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
2. From Jinbu Station to Odaesan: At Jinbu Station, you will need a local bus or a taxi to reach the entrance of Odaesan National Park. (The Wolgjeongsa Temple area is the usual gateway.)
3. Local Bus: Take Bus No. 30 or 31 from Jinbu Intercity Bus Terminal (near the KTX station). The bus goes toward Woljeongsa Temple.
4. Final Leg (from Woljeongsa): Sangwonsa is further up the mountain, past the main Woljeongsa Temple. You can usually take a taxi or a small local shuttle bus between Woljeongsa and Sangwonsa. This service is especially frequent during peak season. Alternatively, you can choose a beautiful 1-2 hour hike.

Travel Tips for Foreign Visitors

• T-Money Card: This card is essential for local buses. Purchase and load it at any major convenience store.
• Park Entrance: Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee to Odaesan National Park.
• Time: Plan for a full day for the round trip from Seoul. This includes sufficient time for exploring both Woljeongsa and Sangwonsa.

3. The Scenery of Sangwonsa Temple, Gangwon-do (Odaesan’s Tranquility)

Sangwonsa does not focus on grand, ornate structures. Instead, it offers visitors profound quietude and a majestic natural setting. The temple complex is modest. This design allows the surrounding Odaesan scenery to dominate your experience. The main attraction is the serene atmosphere. The temple sits high on the mountain, often enveloped in a peaceful silence. Only the sound of the wind or a nearby stream breaks this quiet. Visitors often mention the calming effect of the dense pine and fir forests. They also praise the exceptionally clean, crisp mountain air. The views change dramatically with the seasons. You will see vibrant green in summer, fiery red and gold foliage in autumn, and the breathtaking white serenity of a snow-covered landscape in winter.

4. Surrounding Information

To make your trip to Pyeongchang complete, here are three essential stops near Sangwonsa Temple:

1. Woljeongsa Temple (월정사):
   • Description: Woljeongsa is the main temple of Odaesan National Park, located just down the mountain from Sangwonsa. It is famous for its picturesque fir tree forest path (Jeongmok Forest) and the stunning Nine-Story Stone Pagoda (National Treasure No. 48). This temple is a must-visit for its historical and architectural significance.
   • Contact: +82-33-339-6800
2. Kensington Hotel Pyeongchang (켄싱턴호텔 평창):
   • Description: This four-star hotel offers quality accommodation and amenities. It is ideal for families or anyone seeking a higher level of comfort after a long day of hiking. The hotel is conveniently located near the national park entrance.
   • Contact: +82-33-333-6000
3. Hwangtae Hoegwan Restaurant (황태회관):
   • Description: Pyeongchang is famous for its local specialty, Hwangtae (dried pollock). This popular restaurant offers various dishes featuring this flavorful, high-protein fish, such as Hwangtae-gui (grilled pollock) and Hwangtae-guk (dried pollock soup). It offers an authentic taste of Gangwon-do’s mountain cuisine.
   • Contact: +82-33-335-5120