UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea (재한유엔기념공원)
Temple of the Nirvana Fish (범어사)
Beomeosa is located on the eastern slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain in Northern Busan. It was founded by monk Uisang in the 678, the 18th year of King Munmu (rule 661-681) of the Silla Kingdom. Most of the original Temple site was destroyed during the Imjin War (1592-1598). However, the temple was restored in 1613, which remains it-tact today.
According to legend, the mountain slope of Beomeosa is said to have a huge rock at the summit with a golden well that never dries up. Furthermore, a golden fish from Nirvana lives in the well, which gives the water magical properties. The name Beomeosa literally translates to "Nirvana fish temple" or "heavenly fish".
Monks from Beomeosa Temple are famed the martial arts discipline sunmundo and for defeating Japanese invaders during the late 16th century and the Japanese occupation of Korea in the early 20th century.
This temple is a better version of Headong Yonggungsa. The temple grounds are always full with people, but the atmosphere is much more peaceful and zen-like. It's also very easy to reach from the subway even by walking.
Check out some of my personal photos below. Enjoy!
Beomeosa entrance
Nature trail leading to Beomeosa
Stone carvings in grave site
Gravesite on path leading to Beomeosa
Hamabi message
Instructs visitors to dismount horse or carriage
Beomeosa entrance gates
Vaiśravaṇa of the north, one of the four guardian kings
Dhṛtarāṣṭra of the east, one of the four guardian kings
Side panel paintings of the Burimun Gate (left side)
Virūḍhaka of the south, one of the four guardian kings
Virūpākṣa of the west, one of the four guardian kings
Side panel paintings of the Burimun Gate (right side)
Lecture hall grounds
Lecture hall of Beomeosa temple
Stone lantern
Bell tower of Beomeosa temple
Three-story stone pagoda
Temple halls
Mireukjeon Hall, housing Maitreya (Future Buddha)
Gwaneumjeon Hall, housing Avalokitesvara (Bodhisattva of Compasion)
Daewungjeon Hall, housing the Sakyamuni Buddha statue
Ksitigarbha Hall
Palsangjeon Hall (left), Dokseongjeon Hall (center), and Ksitigarbha Hall (right)
Video from inside the temple halls
Ksitigarbha, the Bodhisattva that cures suffering
Palsangjeon Hall (Paintings of the eight great events from Shakyamuni Buddha's life)
Dokseongjeon Hall (Ven. Naban, a hermit who
independently reached enlightenment)
Gregarious wisteria habitat (등나무군락)
