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Beopjusa Temple - 법주사 (法住寺) (founded 553, rebuilt 1624 onward)

Beopjusa temple has a long and illustrious history dating back to the Three Kingdoms age. It was founded in 553 by the monk Uishin during the reign of King Chinhung (540-576). According to written records compiled in the 12th and 13th century, based on written records from earlier times, it is said that as many as 3,000 monks lived here at times. It is also relates that in the 12th century, the Goryeo king gathered thousands of monks here to pray for the recovery of the National Teacher Uichion (a high-ranking advisor to the King).

Because of the large gatherings at this temple, there are several curiosities to be found in the temple courtyard. One is a stone basin that is said to have held enough water for 3,000 monks. Another is a massive iron rice pot that could serve the same number.

The temple is most notable for its five-story wooden pagoda—the only one left in Korea. It was originally built many centuries ago, but one of the later reconstructions burned in the Japanese invasions of 1592-98. The present pagoda dates from the time of reconstruction in 1624.

At the time of this visit (August 2002) the main hall was undergoing renovations and could not be viewed (however, the pagoda was open, fortunately).

Address: 충북 보은군 속리산면 사내리 209 법주사.