Enjoy the tranquility of Jeondeungsa Temple, an ornate spiritual house located in a scenic spot on Ganghwa Island. Take your time to travel along the scenic forest walk that leads to the temple. Stop to admire the fortress that contains the building. Once inside the temple study the many rich details of its architecture and decoration.
In addition to being very beautiful, the temple has an impressive and far-reaching history. It dates back over 1,500 years, making it one of Korea’s oldest religious sites. It gained its current name in the 13th century, when it was renamed in honor of Queen Jeonghwa. Imagine the sheer amount of important history this temple has seen in its time, including several attacks. It is located within Samrangseong Fortress. Legends say that these fortifications were built by the three sons of Dangun, who was the founder of Korea.
Step through the gate to the temple complex itself and prepare to be overwhelmed by its beauty. See the enormous prayer wheel and the Buddha statue. Look closely at the incredibly detailed, colorful carvings that cover many of the exterior surfaces of the temple’s main building, Daeungbojeon. Be sure to bring your camera with you on your visit, as you’ll find a lot to photograph.
Leave plenty of time to explore the many other attractions of Ganghwa Island, which is rich with history. Make sure you visit the Bugeun-riDolmens in the north, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood since the Bronze Age.
Come to Jeondeungsa Temple in the warmer months to wander along the lovely forest trails around it. The drive to Ganghwa Island from Seoul is about 90 minutes, making it the ideal destination for an easy daytrip. Time your visit to coincide with the Lotus Lantern Festival, which is usually held in April or May, to see the temple come alive with a flurry of brightly colored paper lanterns.
