Seokjongsa Temple in Chungju: A Journey to Tranquility and History
658 Jikdong, Chungju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
석종사
Seokjongsa Temple (석종사), located at the serene foothills of Geumbongsan Mountain in Chungju, is a spiritual sanctuary where nature and energy harmonize perfectly. Founded during the late Silla and early Goryeo periods, this temple has stood as a place of prayer for over a thousand years. Despite being once demolished during the late Joseon Dynasty, it has been beautifully reconstructed into a modern masterpiece of 18 buildings, serving as a hub for both monks and laypeople to practice Zen meditation and find inner peace.
The temple is renowned for being an 'auspicious site' where ancient ancestors believed one could view major celestial constellations all in one place. Today, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a popular Temple Stay program and a Buddhist college, making it a premier destination for those looking to leave behind the heavy burdens of their hearts and rediscover their infinite potential amidst the clear mountain breeze.
A Historical Rebirth at Geumbongsan Mountain
Seokjongsa's history is a story of resilience. After being completely abandoned during the Japanese colonial period, the reconstruction began about 25 years ago under Master Hyeguk. What started as a small orchard has expanded into a 100,000-pyeong sanctuary. The temple grounds house various halls such as the Daeungjeon (Main Hall), Geumbong Seonwon meditation hall, and the Cheoncheokru Pavilion, all meticulously designed with high cultural value.
As you walk through the neat and tidy interior, you can feel the unique energy of the mountain. The unobstructed views in all directions and the elegantly landscaped gardens help visitors immediately feel at ease. It is a place where history is alive, housing precious cultural properties like the Sutra of Forty-two Chapters and the Incheon Anmok Gwonsang.
The Profound Meaning of the Stone Pagodas
The Return of the Goryeo Three-Story Stone Pagoda
One of the most touching sites at Seokjongsa is the Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Goryeo. Located across from the parking lot, this pagoda returned to Korea from Japan after about 80 years. Its presence serves as a symbol of restored heritage and home, making it a highly recommended photo spot for travelers entering the temple area.
Additionally, the Five-Story Stone Pagoda remains the sole guardian of the site from its original foundation, standing through the centuries even when the rest of the temple was lost. Together, these stone monuments provide a deep sense of continuity and spiritual weight to the landscape.
Finding Your True Self Through Meditation
The abbot of Seokjongsa encourages visitors to do more than just look around; he invites them to leave behind hateful thoughts and anxieties. Sitting quietly in the Dharma hall and asking "Who am I?" is a core experience here. The temple emphasizes being awake in the present moment, teaching that the path of life is revealed when we examine the emotions pulling at us.
The clear breeze of Geumbongsan Mountain perfectly complements the tranquility of the grounds. It is a place where you can realize that each person is the protagonist of their own life. As you leave, the goal is to feel filled with hope and confidence, having dropped at least one heavy burden from your heart.
Traveler's Photo Gallery
Have you ever experienced the clarity of mind that comes from a quiet morning walk through a mountain temple like Seokjongsa? If you are planning a visit to Chungju, would you like me to find more information on their Temple Stay schedule or suggest the best local vegetarian restaurants near Geumbongsan Mountain?
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