Spring has come, bringing warmth in the air. The grass is green, and flowers are blooming. Today, we are introducing Simboksa Temple, where you can revel in the spring sun. Like most temples, it is located on a mountain so we recommend you driving.
Simboksa is one of the temples that house a buddha statue, and is one of the most archetypal or traditional Buddhist temples in Korea. While taking a stroll in nature, you can observe the temple’s buildings and statues of Buddha. When you’re feeling down or want to calm your mind, we recommend walking around the temple to meditate.
At Simboksa, you can find Stone Seated Vairocana Buddha, Korea’s Treasure No. 565. It is believed to be created during the Unified Silla period (668–935). According to legend, an old man had recovered the statue from the sea and tried finding it a new home by visiting local temples. Once he reached Simboksa Temple, it suddenly felt heavy, so he decided to enshrine it here. If you would like to learn more about the statue, you can find descriptions in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
Fun Fact: In Korea, April 8th in the lunar calendar is Buddha’s Birthday, which falls on May 19 this year. Although temples are worth visiting all throughout the year, why not mark your calendars to experience the unique celebration?
[Directions]
By Car: 22, Simboksa-gil, Hyeondeok-myeon, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do
경기도 평택시 현덕면 심복사길 22
By Public Transportation: Take bus no. 98 at Pyeongtaek Station → Get off at Anjung Terminal (31 stops) → Take bus no. 84 → Get off at Simboksa Entrance (28 stops) → Walk for roughly 751m or 11 minutes (estimated travel time: 97 minutes)
* For walking directions, search “Simboksa Temple” using Naver Maps.
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