Exploring the Lotus Blossom at Bongnyeonam Temple in Wanju
A Hidden Gem for Lotus Flowers in Wanju: Bongnyeonam Temple
"A Gentle Stroll Through Beauty"
Among the beloved flowers of summer, the lotus holds a special place. Wanju is home to a notable lotus spot, one of which is Bongnyeonam Temple located in Bibong-myeon.
Bibong-myeon is a place where Catholics sought refuge during the persecution period. It has a serene village atmosphere surrounded by mountains. Here, I would like to introduce the quietly blooming red lotus at a small temple in this tranquil village.
Bongnyeonam Temple is a small temple situated within the village of Wonnae-wol in Bibong-myeon. As you walk up the village path past the community center, you will see a sign indicating the temple. Without this sign, you might mistake it for an ordinary house.
This building was originally the birthplace of a monk, and it transformed into Bongnyeonam Temple.
Upon entering Bongnyeonam, you are greeted by the vibrant red lotuses in bloom. The small pond in the yard, which can be covered by a palm, is filled with these flowers. The existence of a pond in such a place is both surprising and intriguing.
According to the stories shared by the temple's caretaker, this was the home where the monk's mother lived after her marriage. She has been cultivating lotus flowers since her arrival. Perhaps she found solace in the sight of the lotuses, reminiscing about her family.
The monk understood his mother's feelings and established the temple, naming it Bongnyeonam, which means "the temple where red lotuses bloom." The small pond gradually expanded and became a popular lotus viewing spot.
The advantage of the small pond in the yard is that you can get close enough to touch each flower, allowing for vivid photographs. It’s a great opportunity to capture beautiful images of the lotuses.
While Bongnyeonam's small pond is charming, it is just the beginning. Passing through a hill path among the bamboo, you will find a larger lotus pond alongside the meditation hall, where you can truly immerse yourself in lotus appreciation.
The expansive pond is bordered by hills on one side and walking paths on three sides, allowing for different views of the lotuses as you stroll along.
If you want to see the lotuses in their most beautiful state, you should visit early in the morning. The flowers bloom at dawn and gradually fade throughout the day. In the early hours, you can even hear the sound of the lotuses opening.
The pond at Bongnyeonam is awash with pink blossoms, each delicate flower captivating enough to leave you unsure where to focus your gaze.
Especially the flowers blooming beside the walking path can be closely observed. You can see the delicate pink stripes on each petal and the yellow stamens within the flowers. For those interested in flower morphology, it’s a fascinating experience.
On the hill, there is a quaint house that was once a thatched cottage but has since been renovated. Maintaining a thatched house is quite challenging, and the change has altered the ambiance.
However, using the house as a backdrop for lotus photos provides a unique atmosphere that can only be experienced here.
The expansive pond features both budding and fully bloomed flowers, as well as scenes of wilting flowers and seed pods. Though small in comparison to the world, it radiates vibrant life.
Each lotus at Bongnyeonam is beautiful, showcasing a dynamic vitality that draws people in. This is why it is often the first place that comes to mind when the lotus season arrives.
The head monk who founded Bongnyeonam resides at Yodeoksa Temple, located higher up in the village. Bongnyeonam continues to function as a temple affiliated with Yodeoksa, which is a modest temple equipped only with a hall and living quarters.
Nearby, the simple flower beds with blooming lilies convey the tranquil atmosphere.
Places worth visiting nearby include Bibong Park and Cheonho Sacred Site. Bibong Park is located at the entrance to the village and features historical monuments.
Further past Bibong Park, you will find Cheonho Village and Cheonho Sacred Site, where Catholics sought refuge from persecution. It’s a place to reflect on fragments of our past history, transcending religious concepts.
On a summer morning, when the sunlight gently shines, visiting Bongnyeonam to absorb the bright energy of the lotus flowers, followed by a stroll around Bibong Park and Cheonho Sacred Site, would be delightful.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/wanjugun/224350598758
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