Donghwasa Temple

Donghwasa stands in Donghak-dong valley, flanked by Pokpogol, Bindaegol, and Susutgol ravines on the slopes of Mt. Palgong — a storied ancient temple with roots stretching back to the Silla dynasty. It's also the head temple of the 9th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

When the monk Geukdan founded it in 493 (the 15th year of King Sojii's reign), it was called Yugasa. When the royal preceptor monk Simji rebuilt it in 832 (the 7th year of King Heungdeok), it's said that paulownia flowers bloomed all around the temple despite it being winter — leading to its renaming as Donghwasa ("Paulownia Flower Temple").

Most of the halls standing today date from a reconstruction during King Yeongjo's reign in the Joseon dynasty, including the main hall along with Yeongyeongjeon, Cheontaegak, Yeongsanjeon, Bongseoru, Simgeomdang, Chilseonggak, Sansingak, Eunghyanggak, Wonumgak, and Cheonwangmun — a genuinely substantial complex that takes real time to explore hall by hall.

Along with the Palgongsan Cable Car and Gatbawi, it's counted among the signature attractions of the Mt. Palgong area, making it a great stop as part of a full day exploring the mountain.