Samgwangsa Temple, Busan

Nestled on the slopes of Mountain Baekyang, Samgwangsa Temple stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit of Korean Buddhism. Established in 1983, Samgwangsa Temple belongs to the Cheontae Order of Korean Buddhism. Despite its relatively recent inception, Samgwangsa has undergone several expansions, now occupying an expansive 120,000 square meters on the picturesque slopes of Mountain Baekyang.

Upon entering the vast courtyard, visitors are greeted by the Main Hall, a spiritual centerpiece adorned with intricate paintings depicting Buddhist symbolism. Inside, the main shrine hosts statues of Buddhas, with Seokgamoni-bul, the historical Buddha, taking the central position. The outer walls of the Main Hall boast exquisite artwork, offering a visual feast for those appreciative of Buddhist aesthetics.

To the right of the Main Hall stands the Daebo Tower, a monumental stone pagoda considered one of the largest in Asia. Adorned with a gold-plated lotus flower and intricate carvings of Buddhas and scenes from the Buddha's life, the tower is a majestic symbol of spiritual reverence. Nearby, the Bell and Drum Tower houses a colossal 3.5-meter bronze bell and an oversized drum, contributing to the temple's solemn atmosphere.

The Daebo Tower also serves as a repository for sari, small crystals discovered among the remains of cremated high monks, revered as sacred relics. As visitors explore the temple grounds, they encounter various structures, including a dedicated space for temple classes and activities. The Jikwan-Jeon Hall, a massive building on the left side of the courtyard, accommodates a souvenir shop, library, Buddhist college, worship rooms, and more. It stands as a testament to the temple's commitment to education and community engagement, with the capacity to host up to 10,000 people.

Samgwangsa Temple truly comes alive during its renowned Lantern Festival. Countless multicolored lanterns illuminate the temple's courtyard, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The lanterns, suspended above like a celestial ceiling, transform the temple into a dazzling panorama of lights. The festival, an annual celebration, draws crowds seeking both spiritual solace and the enchanting beauty of the illuminated temple.