Walking through the light of the stones and the wind, Hwaeomsa Temple in Gurye

📍Address: Hwangjeon-ri, Masan-myeon, Gurye-gun, Jeollanam-do I arrived at Hwaeomsa Temple early. As I walked through the forest-filled grounds, the majestic stone lantern in front of Gakhwangjeon Hall caught my eye. Estimated to be from the Unified Silla period, the 6.3-meter-tall stone lantern (National Treasure No. 12) captivated the viewer with its grandeur and imposing presence.   Climbing the 108 steps along the gentle slope to the left, I came across a unique three-story stone pagoda supported by four lions (National Treasure No. 35). The lion sculptures, standing in a solemn silence, seemed to silence the surrounding noise, and I paused for a moment to catch my breath.   Founded in 544, this temple was destroyed during the Japanese invasions of Korea and rebuilt in the 17th century. The layers of history that have accumulated over time on Jirisan Mountain are clearly visible. It was a place where I could naturally clear my mind by taking a leisurely stroll in the morning or at sunset, avoiding the hustle and bustle of the day. #DomesticTravel #GuryeHwaeomsa #GuryeTravel