Naksansa Temple
낙산사
An ancient temple on a seaside cliff in Yangyang. Its seawater Guanyin statue overlooks the East Sea, and Uisangdae is a well-known sunrise spot in Korea.
Naksansa Temple sits on the seaside at Naksan in Yangyang County. It was founded in 671 by the Silla monk Uisang and is one of South Korea's best-known Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara) temples. Inside, a statue of Guanyin about 16 meters tall stands on the sea cliff, facing the East Sea. The red-pillared pavilion Uisangdae on the cliff and Hongnyeonam, where Guanyin is said to have appeared, are classic scenes. The site is considered one of the best sunrise spots on the East Coast. A forest fire in 2005 destroyed most of the buildings, which have been gradually rebuilt. Admission is about 4,000 won, and Naksan Beach is nearby. Getting there: take bus 9 or 9-1 from downtown Sokcho, about 30 minutes, or take a taxi in about 20 minutes.
Opening hours
Approx. 6:00 am–6:00 pm (opens earlier during sunrise)
Nearby sights
- Daepo Port
- Sokcho Beach & Sokcho Eye
- Sokcho Central Market
- Abai Village & Gaetbae Ferry
- Yeonggeumjeong
- Yeongnangho Lake
- Biryong Falls & Towangseong Falls Observatory
- Seoraksan National Park