Sinheungsa is a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, set on the slopes of Mt. Seoraksan in Sokcho, Gangwon Province. Traditionally said to have been founded by the monk Jajang in the 7th century and rebuilt at its present site after fires, it is regarded as one of Korea's oldest Seon (Zen) temples. Its landmark is the Great Unification Buddha (Tongil Daebul), a roughly 14.6-meter gilt-bronze seated statue enshrined in 1997 as a prayer for the reunification of the Korean peninsula.
Great Unification Buddha (Tongil Daebul): an approximately 14.6 m, ~108-ton seated bronze Buddha, the temple's signature symbol, dedicated to Korean reunification
Designated cultural treasures including the wooden Amitabha triad (Treasure No. 1721) and wooden Ksitigarbha triad (Treasure No. 1749)
The historic Hyangseongsa-ji three-story stone pagoda (Treasure No. 443) dating from the temple's early history
A gateway location at the Sogongwon entrance, linking to the Ulsanbawi and Heundeulbawi hiking trails and the Gwongeumseong cable car
Mountain-temple scenery framed by autumn foliage, plus a templestay offering dawn and evening chanting and the sound of the great bell
Good to know
MannersWhen entering a worship hall, use the side doors rather than the central door, and offer a light bow (hapjang banbae) toward the center before entering or leaving.
MannersKeep quiet within the temple grounds, avoid loud talking, drinking, and smoking, and do not disturb monks or worshippers during services.
RulesPhotography of Buddha statues and paintings inside halls is often restricted, so check the signage; refrain from photographing during services even outdoors at the Unification Buddha.
SeasonOn autumn-foliage weekends and holidays (late September to early November), the Sogongwon area and cable car see long waits (often over an hour), so arrive early in the morning.
SafetyThe trail past the temple toward Heundeulbawi and Ulsanbawi has rockfall-prone sections and steep metal stairways near the top; check Seoraksan National Park notices for weather closures before setting out.
Practical info
The temple's cultural admission fee was abolished in May 2023 (along with 65 temples nationwide), so entry to Sinheungsa is now free; however, Sogongwon parking and the Gwongeumseong cable car (operated separately) charge their own fees, which may change, so confirm the latest rates. Check the official Seoraksan National Park and cable-car channels for operating hours, last rides, and any trail closures before visiting. Templestay can be booked via the temple's official site.
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