A Hidden Gem in Yongdang-dong, Busan: A Walk Through the Exotic Scenery of Dongmyeongbulwon (동명불원)

An Exotic Landscape Encountered in the Heart of the City: Dongmyeongbulwon (동명불원)

In Yongdang-dong, Nam-gu, Busan, if you leave the busy city center and head toward the foot of Yongbisan (용비산), you will find the tranquil Dongmyeongbulwon (동명불원). As soon as you enter the entrance, the heavy silence and the bitter scent of the mountains grazing the tip of your nose make you stop in your tracks. Rather than just a temple, this place felt like a giant piece of art, completed by layer upon layer of someone's earnest heart.

What catches your eye first is the architectural style, which is quite different from typical Korean temples. Looking at the straight ridge tiles infused with the atmosphere of Southeast Asia, one gets the illusion of being in an old temple in an unfamiliar country. Since it is said to enshrine Buddha's sarira brought from a pagoda in Myanmar, one cannot help but ponder the weight of the connection that must have traveled such a long distance long ago.

Overwhelming Scale, Buddhist Faith That Has Endured Time

Upon entering the Daeungjeon (대웅전) Hall of Dongmyeongbulwon (동명불원), one naturally holds their breath. Stepping into the wide, column-free space, the majesty of the wooden gilded Buddha statue, said to be the largest in Korea, is felt throughout one's entire body. Looking up at the ceiling, intricately carved dragon heads guard the hall as if they were alive, and the heavenly beings (Bicheonsang, 비천상) carved on the walls are bathed in a soft light.

Coming outside, you will see the Dongmyeongbuljong (동명불종), the largest Buddhist bell in Korea, which feels like it might ring out with a heavy sound at any moment. That massive bell, which is said to be heavier than the Emille Bell (에밀레종), features intricately carved dragon patterns that are rarely seen on typical temple bells; it is quite fun to get close and examine them one by one. As you walk through the yard listening to the low sound of wind chimes carried by the breeze, the worries of your complex daily life seem to fade away.

My Own Way of Enjoying a Relaxed Temple Walk

There is no need to rush if you want to truly feel this place. I recommend taking your time to look around the two-story Chilseonggak (칠성각) or Sanshingak (산신각) pavilions, and taking a moment to lean against the railing and overlook the peaceful scenery of the Yongdang-dong (용당동) area. The Buddhist books available on the second floor are enough to enrich your mind.

Dongmyeongbulwon (동명불원) is located at 57, Dongmyeong-ro, Nam-gu, Busan. When accessing it by public transport, you must get off at a nearby stop and walk up a gentle slope; this light walk actually becomes a time to clear your mind before entering the temple. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the twilight dyes the temple's roof red. The light at that time brings vitality to every single piece of architecture, providing the best scenery for both photography and viewing with your own eyes. It is a great place to visit alone for contemplation, and there is no better place to walk quietly hand-in-hand with a loved one.