Sangwonsa Temple (Chuncheon)

This is a temple located on Samaksan Mountain in Seomyeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, said to have been founded during the Three Kingdoms period under the Silla Dynasty. It is a branch temple of Sinhungsa Temple, the head temple of the 3rd Diocese of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The exact founding date and founder are unknown, but it is traditionally believed to have been established in the Silla period, with no recorded history thereafter. To reach Sangwonsa Temple, visitors must park at the Samaksan ticket booth at the entrance of the Samaksan hiking trail and walk up a steep trail for about 30 minutes. The temple is not large, with only Daeungjeon Hall, Samseonggak Shrine, monks' quarters, and a single stone pagoda whose original form is difficult to discern. In front of the temple lies Uiamho Lake, while behind it are rocky cliffs and a forest dense with pine trees, offering outstanding natural scenery. Nearby attractions include Seon Falls, Ongnyeotang (a pool associated with the legend of a woodcutter and a fairy), and Samaksan Fortress. Although there are no notable cultural heritage items, the scenery around the temple is exceptional. Additionally, in this mountain area, there is Heungguksa Temple, said to have been founded in the Silla period and where Gung Ye once hid.