Seokbulsa Temple

"Oh snail/ Climb mount Fuji/ But slowly, slowly"

This weekend Benny (a coworker and friend) and I went on a hike to Seokbulsa Temple. It was a relatively difficult hike, with most of the trail going up Geumyeonsan. Throw in a couple of wrong turns and some backtracking and we had ourselves a rigorous excursion.  Super worth it though, as we found one of the coolest temples I've been to yet.

The trail was all uphill!

But we made it to the top!

After hiking for quite some time we reached the Namun Village, which is situated at the top of the mountain. Surprisingly, there was some sort of soccer game going on. I imagine that all these people made the trek up here just to play in or watch the game.

We continued along a stream towards the temple. And after backtracking a few times and asking for directions (I got to practice what little Korean I know!) we finally made it!

What makes Seokbulsa so unique is that this quaint temple is carved entirely into a side of a mountain. Etched right onto the walls are HUGE intricate Buddhist carvings.

exploring all the nooks and crannies

Not to mention, you get an awesome view of the rolling hills of Busan from the top.

After making the climb back down the mountain, so terrible spent (at least I was), we enjoyed a meal of pajeon and kimchi tofu. The Dongnae area is known for this pajeon.  Really too good!

Directions to Seokbulsa Temple
From Oncheonjang Station, take Exit 1. Follow the brown signs towards Geumgang Park.  From here you can either take the cable car to the top or hike it.  From where the car lets you off, find Nammun Village (남문마을) which is a collection of restaurants and Joku courts.  Walk through this village and keep to the left as you follow a stream while you descend down towards the temple.  When the road forks, take the path that leads you right.  It will eventually lead you to Seokbulsa Temple.  Look out for signs. Take note that before you reach the temple you will have to walk an additional steep concrete switch back road and you may see cars at this point.

Directions to Seokbulsa Temple

From Oncheonjang Station, take Exit 1. Follow the brown signs towards Geumgang Park. Before the park you will come to a row of streets lined with pajeon restaurants (just past what looks like a temple archway/gateway)  Just pick one, they are all fabulous.