Discovering Saseongam: A Hidden Gem in Gurye, South Korea
If you're looking to unwind in the open nature during weekends or holidays without breaking the bank, Saseongam in Gurye, Jeollanam-do, is a must-visit destination. Located at the summit of Mount Osan, it offers stunning views of both the towering rock cliffs and the gently flowing Seomjin River, making it a popular spot year-round.
Visiting early in the morning, when the air is crisp and clear, allows you to fully appreciate the graceful curves of the Seomjin River against the backdrop of the Jirisan mountain range. Thanks to its unique architecture perched on rugged cliffs, Saseongam is a highly satisfying location for couples looking to capture memorable photos as well as for families seeking a peaceful nature walk.
There are no admission or parking fees at Saseongam, significantly reducing the cost for visitors. Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, it offers flexible planning for your visit, and public transport is readily available to take you up the mountain. While you can drive directly to the summit, parking can be limited during weekends or peak seasons. Therefore, it's much more pleasant to park at the ticket booth in the nearby Jukyeon village and take the shuttle bus. The round-trip fare is a reasonable 3,400 KRW for adults and 2,800 KRW for children, and the scenic ride along the winding mountain roads is a delightful experience.
Upon reaching an elevation of about 530 meters, you'll encounter the unique Yaksa-jeon temple, which is built directly into the vertical rock face without any artificial supports. The massive cliff, standing approximately 20 meters tall, creates a breathtaking sight as it appears that the temple naturally emerges from the rock itself.
Saseongam was founded during the Silla dynasty by the monk Yeongi, and it has hosted four renowned monks: Wonhyo, Uisang, Doseon, and Jingak, which is how it got its name. In 2019, it was designated as Scenic Site No. 111 due to its exceptional scenery and historical significance. Inside the Geurigwangjeon hall, you can find a stone statue of a seated Buddha, said to have been carved by Wonhyo himself, adding to the temple's mystical atmosphere.
The temple grounds are designed to preserve the steep terrain, with buildings arranged in a tiered layout. As you move from Yaksa-jeon to Geurigwangjeon, and then to the various halls like Gongyanggak and Jijangjeon, each step offers a fresh perspective of the stunning views of the Seomjin River and the surrounding landscape.
With each step you take up the stairs, the composition of the river, fields, and mountains changes slightly, transforming the entire area into a giant natural observation deck. While the cool breeze makes for a pleasant stroll, the incline may be challenging for those with knee issues, so it's advisable to take breaks along the way.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224387477455
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