Embracing the End of Autumn
Hello.
As we find ourselves in the last month of 2025, I can't help but reflect on the feelings of excitement I had as a child during December, eagerly awaiting the sparkling Christmas trees and presents. Even in the cold weather, the anticipation of snow filled my heart with joy. However, flipping the calendar this morning, I felt a tinge of sadness. Why is that?
They say everything depends on our mindset. Despite the cold making me huddle up, I may not receive gifts from Santa, but I can proudly say that I spent 2025 meaningfully. I hope to wrap up the remaining time without any regrets.
Holding onto the last remnants of autumn, I visited Magoksa Temple in Gongju.
If you search for the public parking lot at Magoksa, you’ll find it’s free, but it requires a long walk uphill. On the other hand, the parking lot at Magoksa charges 4,000 won for five hours but takes you right to the temple entrance.
Many people choose to walk up, but considering our second child might struggle, we decided to drive to the parking lot located at the end of the road, which turned out to be the one at Magoksa.
For those visiting with children or elderly companions, I recommend searching for the Magoksa parking lot.
On our way in, we noticed that the Magoksa parish was selling roasted chestnut bread, which was hard to resist after just having lunch.
This is the Haetalmun Gate of Magoksa.
As the main gate of the temple, passing through it signifies leaving the mundane world behind and entering the Buddhist realm, inspiring thoughts of liberation.
Flanking the central passage are the statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, believed to have been rebuilt in 1864, indicating they were established even earlier.
This is the Cheonwangmun Gate, the second main gate of Magoksa, presumed to have been built during the late Joseon period.
Inside the gate are the statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, guardians of the Buddhist law, who oversee the four cardinal directions.
The autumn foliage at Magoksa must have been truly beautiful, complemented by the stunning scenery around.
It seems many people came for temple stays, seeking a tranquil space to heal, free from disturbances, listening only to the sounds of water and wind.
This is the Jijangjeon Hall.
There was a photographer present, so I quietly took a few shots without disturbing him. Even random photos turned out beautifully, thanks to the weather.
It was one of the most crowded temples I’ve visited recently, confirming its popularity.
As I observed a group of people moving in line, they were likely listening to a cultural explanation.
Golden postcards with written wishes surrounded the Five-Story Stone Pagoda of Magoksa, which is designated as a national treasure.
The pagoda, influenced by the Lama Buddhism of the Yuan Dynasty, was built during the late Goryeo period. It features five tiers atop a two-tiered base, with intricate carvings.
Magoksa also has a museum dedicated to preserving its cultural heritage, established to protect temple artifacts.
As we crossed the stepping stones, we encountered numerous stone towers along the water's edge, each representing someone's wish.
This is the place where Kim Gu shaved his head to become a monk, shedding tears as his hair was cut.
While we may not fully grasp the emotions he felt, the thought of tears falling despite a firm resolution resonates deeply.
As we enjoyed our time at Magoksa, I hope everyone stays healthy and has a warm winter.
Magoksa Temple
Location: 966 Magoksa-ro, Sagok-myeon, Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do
Admission: Free
Parking: Paid and free options available
Visited on: November 29, 2025
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