When discussing the historical sites near Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, one of the foremost mentions is the tomb of Crown Prince Sado, the father of King Jungjo. These tombs, where Crown Prince Sado and King Jungjo rest, are situated in a serene and auspicious location accessible through a tranquil forest path near Yongju Temple.

King Jungjo's dedication to relocating Crown Prince Sado's tomb to the most auspicious site in the country eventually led to the selection of the current burial place. It's noteworthy that both King Jungjo and his mother are also interred here, making it one of the most renowned burial sites during the Joseon Dynasty.

Additionally, the sculptures within the royal mausoleum are a testament to the cultural richness and beauty of the era. Created by esteemed artists of the time, such as Hong-do Kim, Yun-bok Shin, and Deuk-sin Kim, these sculptures are a visual feast. Behind the Buddha image at Yongju Temple, commissioned by the king for the restoration of Crown Prince Sado, there is an altar portrait of Buddha that King Jungjo himself drew using Western painting techniques.

The roads leading to the royal mausoleum and Yongju Temple offer more than just a glimpse into King Jungjo's profound reverence for his father, Crown Prince Sado. They reflect the cultural flourishing during the reigns of King Yeongjo and King Jungjo, marked by the rise of the realist school of Confucianism and genre paintings.

After enshrining Crown Prince Sado in this auspicious location, King Jungjo experienced a series of positive events, including the birth of his son, King Sunjo, fulfilling his wish. In a dream, King Jungjo saw his father transform into a dragon carrying cintamani in his mouth as he soared high into the sky. This vision inspired him to name the temple 'Yongju,' which means 'dragon cintamani.'

The construction of Yongju Temple faced resistance, primarily from vassals who believed that a Buddhist temple should not be erected in a Confucian nation to commemorate someone. However, with the support of people from across the country, King Jungjo overcame these obstacles. The deep filial affection King Jungjo held for his father is evident at Yung-neung and Yongju Temple.

Touched by a sermon delivered by a Buddhist priest, King Jungjo inscribed the ten major graces of parents, excerpted from 'The Graceful Favors of Parents,' on a plate. This precious relic still exists and is preserved within Yongju Temple.