JANGSEONG, Nov. 11 (Korea Bizwire) — As autumn peaks across South Korea, few places rival the vivid fall colors of Naejangsan National Park and its famed Baegyangsa Temple—two of the country’s most celebrated spots for autumn foliage.
This year, the leaves at both sites are expected to reach their full splendor between November 10 and 14, according to local forecasts.
Nestled in Jangseong County, South Jeolla Province, Baegyangsa is known for its “baby maple” trees and the twin-pavilion bridge of Ssanggyeru, whose reflection on the temple pond creates a scene that has long drawn photographers at sunrise.
The gentle, flat walking path from the temple entrance to its inner grounds makes it a favorite for visitors of all ages, offering an immersive tunnel of red and golden leaves.
Baegyangsa, founded more than 1,400 years ago in the 33rd year of King Mu of Baekje (632 AD) by the monk Yeohwan, is regarded as a cradle of Buddhism in the Honam region. Originally named Baegamsa, or “White Rock Temple,” it earned its name from the pale stone formations surrounding it.
In addition to its scenic beauty, the temple recently made headlines for a more human story. It became the first Buddhist temple in South Korea to see a couple marry after meeting through its “I Go to the Temple” program—a temple stay designed for single men and women.
Yang Hyun-woo and Joo So-young, who met during the “I Go to the Temple, Baegyangsa” program, present a donation to the Buddhist Social Welfare Fund. (Image provided by the Jogye Order’s Social Welfare Foundation)
According to the Jogye Order’s Social Welfare Foundation, the newlyweds, who participated under the pseudonyms Son Gil-dong and Lim Gil-sun, registered their marriage on September 1 and revisited Baegyangsa on November 1 to thank the chief monk, a year after meeting at the retreat. Their wedding ceremony is scheduled for November 23.
Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
