Dabotap, Stone pagoda at Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Dabotap is a stone pagoda at Bulguksa Temple that combines an octagonal upper section with a square base, featuring detailed stone carvings throughout. The structure has staircases on all four sides and circular stone lamps positioned at various levels.
The pagoda was built in the 8th century during the Unified Silla period. In 1925, Japanese authorities dismantled and reconstructed the entire structure, significantly altering its original form.
This pagoda represents the Buddha of Many Treasures from the Lotus Sutra and stands opposite Seokgatap in front of the main temple hall. Visitors can observe how the two structures work together as an important place of worship within the temple grounds.
The pagoda is located within the Bulguksa Temple complex and is easily accessible by public bus from downtown Gyeongju. The temple grounds have ample parking and marked pathways that help visitors navigate to the pagoda and surrounding structures.
One of the four original stone lion statues still remains on the pagoda, while the others were lost over time. This surviving guardian offers a glimpse into the original decorative elements that once adorned the structure.
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