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Temples

다솔사

4.5 · 840 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
South Korea, Gyeongsangnam-do, Sacheon-si, Gonmyeong-myeon, Dasolsa-gil, 417 다솔사
Interesting facts
1

The temple's name, Dasolsa, literally translates to 'Multiple Pine Temple'.

2

It contains the Jeokmyeolbogung, a sacred hall considered to house the relics of the Buddha, making it a place of high spiritual pilgrimage.

3

The temple served as a secret base for independence activists during the period of Japanese colonial rule.

4

Writer Kim Dong-ni resided at this temple while seeking inspiration for his seminal Buddhist-themed novel, Deungsinbul.

5

The temple grounds are surrounded by a rare, centuries-old forest that remains largely untouched by modern development.

6

It is known for the 'Dasolsa Tea,' which is harvested from ancient trees grown on the temple property.

7

The temple's Eungjin-jeon hall contains unique wall paintings that depict scenes uncommon in mainstream Buddhist art.

Overview

Dasolsa is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Korea, established during the Silla Dynasty. It is situated on the southern slope of Bongmyeongsan Mountain in Sacheon. The temple is historically significant as the site where novelist Kim Dong-ni wrote his famous work, Deungsinbul. The current main hall, Jeokmyeolbogung, is recognized for housing the Buddha's sarira. The temple grounds feature the Eungjin-jeon hall, which displays unique murals and woodwork from the Joseon period. It is famous for its historical tea culture, as the temple has long been associated with the cultivation and processing of local green tea. The architecture incorporates traditional Korean wooden designs that blend into the surrounding mountain forest. Visitors can access the temple via a path that winds through dense pine and cypress groves.

Photo spot

The stone courtyard in front of the Jeokmyeolbogung hall looking toward the surrounding forest canopy.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uphill forest path from the parking area to the temple buildings.

Bring a reusable water bottle, as the temple area is a quiet natural environment with few commercial concessions.

Check the weather before visiting, as the mountain paths can become slippery after rain.

What to avoid

Avoid wearing loud or brightly colored clothing that disrupts the solemn environment; do not bring pets into the temple grounds.

Etiquette

Maintain a low voice out of respect for monks and practitioners; do not take photographs inside the prayer halls.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or autumn for mild weather and to see the forest foliage; early morning for the quietest atmosphere.
Address
South Korea, Gyeongsangnam-do, Sacheon-si, Gonmyeong-myeon, Dasolsa-gil, 417 다솔사
Website
35.083, 127.920
Get directions
Details
Cultural HeritageJeokmyeolbogung (Site of Buddha's sarira)
Historical SignificanceLiterary site for Kim Dong-ni's Deungsinbul

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or autumn for mild weather and to see the forest foliage; early morning for the quietest atmosphere..

The stone courtyard in front of the Jeokmyeolbogung hall looking toward the surrounding forest canopy.

Close by you'll find Geumosan skywalk, Chokseongnu Pavilion, Jinju National Museum.