Temple of 40,000 paper lanterns (삼광사)

Samgwangsa is Buddhist Temple located on the side of Mt Baekyang, in the Seomyeon District of Busan, South Korea. Although very young compared to nearby Korean temples (built 1983), Samgwangsa is one of the most important temples of the Cheontae Order of Buddhism.

Every year to celebrate Buddha's birthday, the temple grounds are decorated with over 40,000 paper lanterns. These displays have received international recognition from news outlets such as CNN.

Although the temple is located about 15 minutes away from Busan's commercial district, there is still a great atmosphere on the grounds. I visited after Buddha's birthday, and virtually had most of the site to myself to take my pictures.

Check out some of my personal photos below. Enjoy!

Samgwangsa Map

Samgwangsa entrance grounds

Daeungbojeon (대웅보전) or Main Hall housing the Sakyamuni Buddha (Triad Buddhas)

Office (법하삼매당) and pharmacy (약사전), but I thought the building was still impressive

Gwanse-eum bosal, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The temple is dedicated to this Bodhisattva.

Samgwangsa bell tower

Great Dharma bell pavilion

The bell echoes the sound of the "Great Truth" welcoming all visitors

Daebo Pagoda

Nine-story, eight-sided Daebo Pagoda containing 53 Buddha carvings and 11 Buddhist relics

Stone seated Buddha, carved in accordance with 17th and 18th century style

Carvings of the Gods protecting Buddhism, located on a wall surrounding the Daebo Pagoda. Korean Buddhists circle the pagoda praying to each individual God.

Samgwangsa Main Hall

The Sakyamuni Buddha (middle) flanked by Avalokitesvara (left, compassion Bodhisattva) and Mahasthamoprapta (right, Bodhisattva of power).

Jijangjeon (지장전)

Jade Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (gift from Myanmar) on the second floor of Jijangjeon. It is flanked by Mudok (King of spirits) and Domyeoung (a holy man). Further to each side are 10 wooden gingko kings. The Jijangjeon was built for younger generations to learn about Buddhist morals and customs.

Geuknakjeon Hall (극락전)

Naese-Deukjak-Bultap, a pagoda on the first level of Geuknakjeon hall. It was built by the Monk Kim Mu-Won with the earnest wish of helping the Buddha.

Buddha statues on fifth floor of Geuknakjeon Hall