Must-Visit Destination for an Autumn Getaway!

Bomunsa Temple in Ganghwa Island: A Healing Journey to the Sea and the Sanctuary of Avalokitesvara 🌊🙏 Hello, travel enthusiasts! Today, let me invite you to Bomunsa Temple in Ganghwa Island, just about a two-hour drive from Seoul. This temple, which dates back to the Silla Dynasty, is one of Korea's three major maritime sanctuaries dedicated to Avalokitesvara. Nestled on the slopes of Nakga Mountain in Seokmodo, it offers a stunning blend of blue seas and lush green forests. Shall we embark on a serene autumn walk, perfect for making wishes? 🍂 🛤️ The Easy and Exciting Route to Bomunsa The drive across Ganghwa Bridge and Seokmo Bridge is truly romantic. Gone are the days of ferry rides – since the bridge opened in 2017, it only takes 15 minutes to get there! With the temple located right in front of the parking lot, you can switch to healing mode without the stress of packing. Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the fresh air. 🚗💨 🏛️ Highlights of Bomunsa: A Dive into History and Legends In the 4th year of Queen Seondeok's reign (635 AD), Monk Hoejeong established this temple after seeing Avalokitesvara in Geumgang Mountain. The name 'Bomun' signifies the boundless vow of the Bodhisattva – the infinite compassion to save all beings! One of its most famous features is the 'Shintong Cave (Nahanjeon).' Legend has it that 22 Buddha statues (including Shakyamuni and Maitreya) were retrieved from the sea and enshrined in the cave 14 years after the temple's founding. It is said that sincere prayers here will grant at least one wish, making it a bustling spot for New Year prayers. Behind the temple, the 9-meter-tall seated rock-carved Buddha is a magnificent figure etched into the rock, perfect for capturing photos with the sunset over the West Sea! 📸✨