Exploring Dosungam at Hwawangsan Mountain
Kim Myung-hoon, Blog Reporter of Changnyeong County, 15th Term
Dosungam at Hwawangsan Mountain
Parking: Free parking available
Located at the foot of Hwawangsan Mountain in Changnyeong County, Gyeongsangnam-do, Dosungam is a branch temple of Tongdosa, the main temple of the 15th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.
It is said that the temple was founded by the eminent monk Ji-wol in the second year of King Hyeondeok's reign (810), although the exact details are unclear. The temple was destroyed during the Imjin War and has since been rebuilt to its current form.
Dosungam is nestled on the slopes of Hwawangsan, known as the main mountain of Changnyeong and a beautiful scenic spot, relying on the power of Amitabha Buddha.
The stone statue of Amitabha Buddha in the Daeungjeon Hall is designated as a cultural heritage asset.
Recently, a new parking lot has been established at Dosungam, making it easier for visitors to park their vehicles.
The parking area is conveniently located next to the road leading up to the temple, and stairs have been installed for safer access.
Next to the parking lot, there is a unique gate called the Jogye Gate, which is another form of the traditional Iljumun gate commonly found at temples. The Jogye Gate embodies the teachings of Zen and can be seen at some other temples as well.
Behind the Jogye Gate is the Bojeoru, a two-story structure that provides access to the Daeungjeon Hall through the space between the pillars. The second floor houses a bell, showcasing the unique charm of Dosungam as both a pavilion and a bell tower.
Between the Daeungjeon and Bojeoru, there is the temple office. Currently, construction is ongoing in the surrounding area, making it a cozy but somewhat chaotic environment.
Upon entering the Bojeoru, you will find the Yaksa-jeon, which houses the statue of Yaksa Buddha, known for healing all ailments and caring for the suffering of both body and mind. This serene space is perfect for quiet reflection and wishing for health and peace amidst the clear energies of Hwawangsan.
The Daeungjeon Hall houses the stone statue of Amitabha Buddha, which is currently registered as a cultural heritage site in Gyeongsangnam-do. If you visit Dosungam, be sure to see the statue in the Daeungjeon.
Next is the Samsunggak, a space where Buddhism and traditional Korean folk beliefs converge, housing the three deities: Chilseong, Doksung, and Sanshin. You can also see the beautiful flowering Baerong tree nearby.
As you can see, the Baerong trees at Dosungam have started to bloom. Take a moment to capture photos in front of the newly established tech path, where Baerong trees are also found.
There’s a Baerong tree planted next to the Bojeoru, and it would be lovely to take pictures together there as well.
Alongside the new tech path, the Baerong tree is perfect for photos. These trees bloom from July to September, which is why they are called Baerong trees, as they bloom for about 100 days, painting the area in red. I recommend exploring Dosungam while enjoying the beauty of the Baerong trees.
There is a hiking trail from Dosungam to Hwawangsan Mountain, making it a popular spot for hikers. Before heading up, why not take a moment to wish for a safe hike?
Having explored Dosungam, how do you feel? Consider taking a moment to enjoy the sounds of birds and the rustling trees in this tranquil place, allowing yourself some time to heal.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/cngblog/224384522440
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