Donghwasa Temple
Daegu-gwangyeoksi
Donghwasa Temple, located on the southern slopes of Palgongsan Mountain in Daegu, South Korea, is a significant Buddhist temple of the Jogye Order. Established originally in 493 as Yugasa by Ven. Geukdal, it was renamed Donghwasa in 832 by Patriarch Ven. Simji, inspired by the rare blooming of Korean paulownia flowers in winter, symbolizing auspiciousness. The temple has a rich history intertwined with Korean dynasties; it was a site of military refuge during the Later Baekje attacks and underwent multiple reconstructions across the Goryeo and Joseon periods. Notable features include a three-story stone pagoda and a stone Vairocana Buddha, both dating back to the 9th century. Donghwasa also preserves numerous cultural properties, including state-designated artifacts and local heritage items. Today, it welcomes visitors with temple stay programs that offer immersive experiences in Buddhist culture, while hosting the revived traditional Seungsi Festival every October, celebrating monastic market traditions.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during the autumn months to experience the vibrant Seungsi Festival held every October, which revives the traditional monastic market. Booking temple stay programs in advance is recommended for those interested in immersive cultural experiences. The temple is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and scenic views. Visitors should be respectful of the temple's religious significance and the preservation of its cultural artifacts.
Interesting facts
- •Donghwasa Temple was originally named Yugasa when founded in 493.
- •The temple’s current name comes from a legend of Korean paulownia flowers blooming in winter, seen as an auspicious sign.
- •A three-story stone pagoda and a stone Vairocana Buddha were constructed there in 863 by royal decree.
- •The temple was a military refuge during the Later Baekje attacks, housing 10,000 Goryeo soldiers led by Wang Geon.
- •Donghwasa holds a traditional monastic market festival called Seungsi every October, reviving an ancient practice from the Goryeo to early Joseon periods.
- •In 1998, the temple suffered desecration when a Christian fundamentalist destroyed hundreds of Buddhist statues.
History
Donghwasa Temple was founded in 493 by Ven.
Geukdal under the name Yugasa and was renamed in 832 by Patriarch Ven.
Simji after the Korean paulownia flower bloomed unusually in winter.
By the late 9th century, significant structures such as the three-story stone pagoda and stone Vairocana Buddha were erected under King Gyeongmun's decree.
The temple played a strategic role during the Later Baekje attacks, hosting Goryeo soldiers led by Wang Geon.
Throughout the Goryeo and Joseon eras, Donghwasa underwent several major reconstructions, notably in 1190, 1298, and during the 17th and 18th centuries, restoring and expanding its Dharma halls and facilities.
Place Guide
Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Biroam Hermitage863
Built in 863 by royal decree, this stone pagoda is a fine example of Silla-era Buddhist architecture and serves as a significant cultural relic within the temple complex.
Stone Vairocana Buddha863
A stone statue of Vairocana Buddha dating from the 9th century, symbolizing the cosmic Buddha and a central figure in Buddhist iconography at Donghwasa.
Main Buddha Hall17th-18th century
The principal hall of Donghwasa where major Buddhist ceremonies take place, rebuilt and expanded during the Joseon era, reflecting traditional Korean temple architecture.
Seungsi FestivalModern revival
An annual week-long festival held every October reviving the traditional monastic market where temples barter daily necessities, fostering cultural heritage and community spirit.
Contact
Phone: 053-980-7983
