Beopjusa is a thousand-year-old Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of Songnisan Mountain in Boeun, Chungcheongbuk-do, said to have been founded in 553 AD during the Silla Kingdom. In 2018 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the seven 'Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea,' and it is famous for the country's only surviving wooden pagoda and a 33 m bronze Maitreya Buddha. Set among gentle forest trails and streams, it makes for a serene, walkable mountain temple in any season.
Palsangjeon (National Treasure No. 55): Korea's only surviving multi-story wooden pagoda, whose murals depict eight scenes from the life of the Buddha
Golden Bronze Maitreya Buddha: an imposing ~33 m gilded statue that is the temple's symbol and main photo spot
Twin Lion Stone Lantern (National Treasure No. 5) and Stone Lotus Basin (National Treasure No. 64) among its notable stone treasures
Sejo-gil trail: a gentle ~3.2 km wooden-deck and dirt path from the temple to Bokcheonam hermitage, with a barrier-free section
Seasonal scenery: brilliant autumn foliage and snow-covered temple grounds set against Songnisan Mountain
Good to know
MannersKeep quiet before the halls and Buddha statues, and do not disturb worshippers during prayers or services. Respect any 'no photography' signs indoors.
RulesThis is an active place of worship, so avoid revealing clothing and never touch or climb on the cultural heritage structures.
SeasonDuring peak autumn foliage (around mid-October) and on weekends it gets very crowded and parking is difficult, so arrive early.
SeasonIn winter this mountain area is cold and paths can ice over, so bring warm clothing and non-slip footwear.
SafetyTrails like Sejo-gil and Munjangdae grow dark after sunset; allow ample time to descend and stay on the designated hiking routes.
Practical info
The cultural heritage admission fee was abolished in May 2023, so temple entry is reported to be free (parking may be charged separately), but opening hours, parking, and templestay programs vary by season—please confirm the latest information before visiting. By public transport, take a bus to Songnisan from Seoul (Nambu or Dong Seoul terminal) or Cheongju, then walk about 15–20 minutes from the ticket gate.
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