Baegyangsa

Baegyangsa is one of those places that instantly slows your pace down in the best way. Mountains rising right behind the temple grounds, with dramatic rock faces and soft winter trees… it feels cinematic. The sky looks huge out there too. Super crisp air, super clean. You can literally feel your lungs “reset” after a few minutes walking around. Quiet, peaceful, not overly touristy. The dancheong is stunning up close. The rooflines and carved details are beautifully preserved, and the colors pop even on a cloudy day. Easy to stroll, lots of great angles for photos. The approach roads and paths feel like part of the experience, not just the way to get there. Loved my visit with my in-laws!

Baekyangsa is part of the Naejangsan National Park. It is best to visit in the fall season while the leaves are changing adding to an already beautiful place and wonderful hike up the mountains. It is a wonderful park with some of the best scenery I have ever seen. There is also a small village outside the park with family osned eateries and street food. The best way to get there is by train which drops you off at Baekyangsa station. The only down side is that there was no local bus that I've seen with a direct route from station to the park.

Is it possible to be more beautiful than here? "stunned, overwhelmed, mesmerized." I had this feeling that I'm struggling to put into words. Maybe: coming to a place like this alone is a reward for being alone - being lonely. The solitude felt even in the midst of the crowd was so intensely satisfying that... that I couldn't experience such if I had been human enough have had a family.

It is known to have been founded during the reign of King Mu of Baekje. Its original name was Baegamsa, but it is said to have been changed to its current name during the reign of King Sukjong following a legend that a white sheep ascended to heaven after hearing a sermon.

One of the biggest temples from South Jeolla Province. It's a nice place with alleys for slow walks. P.S. Revisited this temple on a rainy afternoon of April (2025) and enjoyed a quiet and relaxing time. Sometimes, going late means less or no crowded.