Jeondeungsa Temple located on Ganghwa Island, another magic place to visit just one hour of drive from Seoul.
Jeondeungsa was founded in 381 AD and is considered to be one of the temples having the oldest history in Korea.
The initial name of the temple used to be Jinjongsa Temple and it played an important role of Buddhism revival during the invasion of the Mongol hordes (13th century). In 1282, the name of the temple was changed to Jeondeungsa after the Queen Jeonghwa made offerings of sutras and a jade lantern to the temple. During this period of the Joseon Dynasty, when Confucianism was worshipped and Buddhism largely suppressed, Jeondeungsa didn’t lose its position as a significant temple.
When you start the beautiful walk through the forest, you’ll realize that the temple is encircled by a fortress. Once you enter the fortress gate, you’ll see first the giant buddhist prayer wheel. If you have a chance to visit the temple just before during the Lotus Lantern Festival (usually in April or early May) you’ll be just amazed by the density of colorful lanterns decorating all the area of the temple. The view from the temple is also stunning.
After the visit, if you have your own car, just head to the Dongmak beach on the southern part of the island. It’s a nice place to relax by the sea and there is a bunch of very good restaurants serving the seafood, crabs and all kind of delicious fresh fish.
Across from Shinsegae Department Store, take Bus 88 to Ganghwa Terminal.
From Ganghwa Intercity Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Jeondeungsa Temple.
Get off at the last stop.
