The Naksansa Temple

Naksansa
(From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

Naksansa or Naksan Temple is a Korean Buddhist temple complex in the Jogye order of Korean Buddhism that stands on the slopes of Naksan Mountain (also called "Obongsan Mountain"). It is located about midway between Sokcho and Yangyang, Gawngwon Province, eastern region of South Korea. Naksansa is one of the few temples in Korea to overlook theEast Sea.

Naksan is an abbreviated term of Botarakgasan (補陀洛伽山) in Korean to refers to "Potalaka Mountain", the place where the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is believed to live. Thus, Naksan Mountain is also known as Korea's Potalaka Mountain. The Bodhisattva is said to live on a sea-bound island along with guardian dragons. Naksansa is regarded as one of the great eight scenic areas in the Eastern region of Korea, known as "Gwandong Palgyeong" (관동팔경).

2005 fire and reconstruction

Most of Naksansa was destroyed by a fire that started in the surrounding forest on April 5, 2005. The temple bell, a national treasure dated 15th century, was also melted and destroyed in the fire. The museum displays a violin and cello built from wood found on the temple grounds that survived the fire.

The temple was earlier destroyed by fire during the Mongolian invasion of the 13th century. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) the temple was repeatedly reconstructed and expanded by royal order in 1467, 1469, 1631 and 1643. The pre-2005 fire facilities were constructed in 1953 after the buildings were again destroyed during the 1950-53 Korean War.

Present reconstruction is well under way as can be seen in the gallery bellow. The new construction projects are expected to be completed and the temple fully restored by 2010.

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