Discovering the Hidden Gem: Botapsa Temple in Jincheon

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Botapsa Temple, located on the scenic Manroe Mountain in Jincheon, South Korea, features a rare three-story wooden pagoda that is hard to find elsewhere in the country. Despite its relatively short history, this temple attracts numerous visitors year-round, including travelers and photographers, thanks to its unique pagoda.

As you navigate the winding roads, you'll arrive at the spacious parking lot right at the end, adjacent to the temple. The parking area is ample, with additional spots available inside, ensuring that there is no shortage of space.

Next to the Botapsa parking lot, you'll find the café Yeonggukri, a charming white building that operates from 11 AM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays. The café offers a variety of drinks, including coffee, non-coffee options, and beverages, making it a perfect stop after exploring the temple.

Botapsa also has a hiking trail leading up to Manroe Mountain, which is about 2.5 km one way, making it suitable for beginner hikers.

At the entrance to Botapsa stands the Four Heavenly Kings Gate, a traditional structure that has protected the temple from malevolent spirits and purifies the hearts of worshippers.

In front of the gate, you can find a protected zelkova tree that is approximately 370 years old.

Passing through the Four Heavenly Kings Gate, you'll encounter stairs that offer glimpses of the three-story wooden pagoda between two pavilions.

At the top of the stairs, you'll see two pavilions: the Bell Pavilion, which announces the time and awakens sentient beings with its symbolic sounds, and the Beopgo Pavilion, which houses a ceremonial drum used during temple rituals.

As you move past these pavilions, the grandeur of the three-story wooden pagoda comes into full view, leaving you in awe of its size and majesty.

The three-story pagoda at Jincheon Botapsa is the only wooden pagoda in the area that visitors can ascend. Constructed using a tiered wooden stacking method similar to that of the Hwangnyongsa Nine-Story Pagoda, it stands out beautifully in every season, particularly in winter when the snow creates a stunning contrast with the brown wood.

The pagoda is especially popular among photographers, known for its breathtaking winter scenery. Its nearly symmetrical design adds to its allure, making it a mesmerizing sight.

Adjacent to the pagoda is the Yeongsanjeon Hall, which contains a fascinating interior representing one of the most sacred moments in Buddhism—the sermon of the Buddha on Yeongchuksan Mountain.

Behind Botapsa, you'll find the Haehaengdang, a space for monks' study and practice, along with a small pond and well.

During my visit, I caught a glimpse of a prayer ceremony happening in a nearby building through a small crack in the door.

The Jeokjojeon Hall, located nearby, uniquely features a massive reclining Buddha statue. The surrounding area offers various attractions, including hiking trails on Manroe Mountain and natural parks. The winter scenery is particularly stunning, making it a perfect destination for a winter visit.