Tongdosa, Buddhist temple in Yangsan, South Korea
Tongdosa is a Buddhist temple in Yangsan in southeastern Korea with a complex layout of multiple buildings, wooden structures, and gates arranged across different elevation levels. These buildings are connected by stone pathways and feature traditional Korean architecture throughout the sprawling sanctuary.
The temple was founded in 646 AD by monk Jajang and received sacred Sarira relics from India, making it a major center of Buddhist practice for over 1,300 years. This ancient founding and precious relics secured its standing as one of Korea's most significant sanctuaries.
The temple stands apart from other Korean sanctuaries by displaying no Buddha statues, instead preserving actual Buddha relics in its main hall. This unusual practice makes the place an important site where visitors and devotees come to express reverence and meditate.
The temple is reachable by bus from Yangsan Station, with guided tours and traditional stay programs available year-round. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the site spreads across different elevation levels and requires considerable walking to explore.
The site forms part of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea and represents Buddha's body through its collection of sacred relics housed in multiple stone pagodas. This special role among Korean sanctuaries gives the place a unique religious meaning.
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