Yangpyeong Yongmunsa Ginkgo Tree, Ancient ginkgo tree at Yongmunsa Temple in Yangpyeong County, South Korea.
The Yangpyeong Yongmunsa Ginkgo Tree is a massive specimen with thick branches spreading outward, dominating the temple grounds with its sheer size. Its trunk shows the weight of centuries while the canopy creates a sheltered space within the temple complex.
The tree was established around 1,100 years ago during the Unified Silla era and later received official government recognition during the Joseon Dynasty under King Sejong. This royal acknowledgment across different periods shows its enduring importance.
The tree connects to a legend about a Silla prince who allegedly planted it during his travels, becoming a focal point of local reverence and spiritual connection. Visitors sense how the place bridges ancient memory with ongoing worship at the temple.
The tree stands within the Yongmunsa Temple grounds and is accessible via the temple's pathways without requiring special arrangements. Visitors can view it from multiple angles as they move through the temple area.
When the temple complex burned during a Japanese invasion, this tree escaped the flames entirely and showed no damage whatsoever. The survival adds a layer of legend to an already ancient presence.
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