Temples of Odaesan Mountain

Odaesan Mountain has long been considered a sacred site in Buddhism, believed to be the residence of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva symbolizing the perfection of wisdom. Revered as a holy place for Buddhist practice since the Silla Dynasty, Odaesan Mountain is home to several representative temples. Shall we explore some of them within Odaesan National Park?

Woljeongsa Temple and Sangwonsa Temple are the main temples in Odaesan National Park, housing much of the park’s cultural heritage and underscoring their importance. Connecting Woljeongsa Temple to Sangwonsa Temple is the Seonjae-gil, or “Path of Enlightenment.” Let’s walk along Seonjae-gil together, taking time for reflection and healing within Odaesan’s serene forest.

Located at the entrance of Seonjae-gil, Woljeongsa Temple was founded during the reign of Queen Seondeok in the Silla Dynasty. The temple features heritage treasures such as the Octagonal Nine-story Stone Pagoda from the early Goryeo Dynasty and the Stone Seated Bodhisattva that is facing the pagoda. The fir tree forest road in front of Woljeongsa Temple is also renowned as one of Korea’s most beautiful forest trails.

Starting from Woljeongsa Temple at the beginning of Seonjae-gil, we reach Sangwonsa Temple at the trail’s end. Sangwonsa Temple is the most famous among the smaller temples associated with Woljeongsa Temple. While its exact founding date is unknown, it is believed to have been established during the Silla Dynasty. Comparable in scale to Woljeongsa Temple and rich in legends, Sangwonsa Temple attracts visitors year-round.

The Seonjae-gil trail connecting Woljeongsa Temple and Sangwonsa Temple spans 8.1 km. This decked path through dense forest, accompanied by the soothing sound of clear valley streams throughout the walk, healing the mind as you walk. With parking areas, entry and exit points, and bus stops throughout the trail, Seonjae-gil trail is accessible and welcoming, even for visitors who are not experienced hikers.