Hyangiram, Buddhist temple on Mount Geumo, Yeosu, South Korea.
Hyangiram sits on coastal cliffs and merges Buddhist ceremonial buildings with natural rock formations. Stone staircases and passages carved through the rock connect the different levels of the complex.
The site was founded in 644 by Buddhist monk Wonhyo during the Baekje Dynasty. The name changed multiple times: from Wontongam to Geumoam, and finally to Hyangiram in 1715.
Carved turtle sculptures are scattered throughout the grounds, representing wisdom and longevity in Korean tradition. These figures appear in different sections of the temple complex.
The site is open to visitors daily from 4 AM to 7 PM, with free parking for the first hour. Comfortable shoes are important since exploring multiple levels requires climbing stairs and passing through tight passages.
Seven stone passageways carved directly into the rock lead to the main temple buildings, requiring visitors to navigate through tight openings between large rock formations. This unusual route turns the visit into a physical experience.
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