We are in Yangsan, a city in Gyeongsangnam-do Province, visiting Tongdosa Temple. This temple was built more than 1,000 years ago, and is set in some fantastic landscape with forest, rivers and paths. Really is a tranquil place…
The name ‘Tongdosa’ was named after the belief that mankind can be saved through Buddhism. Tongdosa Temple was built during Queen Sun-Deok’s reign (646). Tongdosa Temple is said to have survived numerous wars and invasions, its Beopdeung (temple candle) has never gone out, for 1,300 years. Inside, there are 35 buildings and Pagoda’s, and 14 small temples in its vicinity. The main building is designated as National Treasure No.290.
Chloe was fascinated by many monks and visitors praying and chanting. She ran around looking at each and every room in there. For me, I was a little weirded by all of that act of workship to Budha but I could understand why Chloe was so amazed by them.
Mt. Chiseosan, has a beautiful view from the temple. The several hundred year-old pine trees lined up from the entrance to Ilju Gate, the small drum (used when praying in front of a Buddha figure) and bell, the sunset, the pond and the rocks and waterfalls behind the temple are grouped and called the ‘Eight Famous Sceneries of Tongdosa Temple.’
