The temple's name was officially changed to Girimsa by the monk Gwang-u during the reign of Queen Seondeok of Silla.
It was historically one of the largest temples in the Gyeongju area, once serving as the head of over 60 branch temples.
The temple contains a rare wooden statue of the Seated Vairocana Buddha that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty.
Archaeological surveys have uncovered remains of temple structures dating back to the Unified Silla period on the grounds.
The temple's main hall, Daejeokgwang-jeon, features structural elements that demonstrate late Joseon period architectural techniques.
Unlike many lowland temples, Girimsa is tucked into a valley, which protected it from destruction during several historical invasions.
The site includes a spring known as 'Long-Life Water' (Jangsu-mul) which has been associated with the temple since its early history.
Girimsa Temple is a historic Buddhist site situated on the eastern slopes of Mt. Hamwol in Gyeongju. It was originally founded during the Silla Kingdom as Imjeongsa and later renamed Girimsa by the monk Gwang-u. The temple grounds house several designated cultural heritage sites, including the Daejeokgwang-jeon Hall. The architecture reflects traditional Joseon Dynasty styles, with extensive use of wood and ornate dancheong painting. A distinctive feature is the five-story stone pagoda located in the central courtyard. The surrounding topography includes a mountain stream and dense forest, which contribute to the site's natural insulation and quiet environment. It serves as an active place of worship for the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Visitors can observe various stone artifacts recovered from different historical periods of the site's long operation. The temple maintains a collection of preserved monastic residential buildings that are distinct from the primary prayer halls.
The stone path leading up to the main Daejeokgwang-jeon Hall, which captures the symmetry of the temple courtyard.
Wear comfortable, slip-on walking shoes as you will be frequently taking them off to enter prayer halls.
Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at the natural spring water stations found on the temple grounds.
Allocate extra time to walk the forest trails immediately surrounding the temple complex for better views of the valley.
Do not attempt to park directly in the courtyard; use the designated parking areas further down the access road.
Remove shoes before entering temple buildings; maintain a quiet voice; avoid photographing statues inside prayer halls; do not step on the wooden thresholds.
