Naksansa Temple: A Healing Journey in Gangwon-do - Perfect Stop Between Sokcho and Gangneung
On this trip, I was traveling from Sokcho down to Gangneung, and all my friends recommended that I visit Naksansa Temple in Gangwon-do.
I actually like visiting temples, so I added it to my itinerary without hesitation. It turned out to be an excellent decision! 😊
Entering the temple grounds, you'll first see a map of the entire Naksansa Temple complex. Wow... it was the first time I saw a temple with so much to see.
It was a very hot day, so I couldn't see everything, but even exploring just a few areas was enough to experience its charm.
I heard that parking at Naksansa Temple is really difficult, but I visited early in the morning and there were still a few spots available.
However, the parking lot filled up quickly. So, if you want to go, I highly recommend visiting in the morning.
Seeing Naksansa bathed in the morning sunlight had a different kind of charm.
The operating hours are slightly different depending on the season:
Winter: until 5 PM
Summer: until 6 PM
Make sure to check the time before you go, or you might make a wasted trip! 😉
On the way to Gwaneum Cave, there was a cafe called Daraehyeon, and its exterior was both quaint and beautiful.
I also liked the calm and atmospheric interior.
Taking out a cup of iced Americano and drinking it as I walked made me feel much better. 😄
A cafe at a temple definitely has a unique appeal.
In the middle, there was a place selling temple-related items, so I bought a ring and a bracelet.
I'm glad I did, as they'll serve as souvenirs and small mementos. I visited Botajeon and Gwaneum Cave in order,
and the well-maintained and clean grounds made even the walk itself healing.
My final destination for this visit was the Haesu Gwaneum Statue. It was located quite high up, so I climbed up sweating, but when I got there, I understood why everyone recommended it.
A huge Buddha statue stood facing the sea, and I couldn't help but marvel at the sight. I took some pictures in front of it and stared at it for a long time before coming down.
Next, I headed to Hongnyeonam Hermitage.
On the way, a panoramic view of the open sea unfolded before my eyes. Wow... it was truly spectacular! 😄
Sitting there blankly, listening to the sound of the waves, made me feel refreshed.
Hongnyeonam Hermitage was located even higher up, but honestly, it was too hot for me, so I just looked at it from afar lol.
Instead, my partner, who is in better shape, went all the way up alone.
My partner said that the view of the sea from above was amazing in a different way.
Naksansa Temple would be even better to visit when the weather is cooler.
It would also be a great travel destination to bring your parents to.
There aren't many steep hills, and the parking lot is right in front, so even the elderly can easily explore the temple.
Despite the hot weather, it was a relaxing and healing experience.
It was clear that there was a reason why it is so loved as a famous tourist attraction in Gangwon-do.
I highly recommend it as a great place to stop on the way from Sokcho to Gangneung! ✨
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