After lunch at an incredible chicken place called BHC which we have in San Diego (!) we stumbled upon this temple, so decided to check it out.

Unfortunately I forgot to take a photo of the outside, so this Google image will have to suffice.

Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam, Seoul, was first established in 794 A.D. by the monk, Yeonhoei. Originally, it was called Gyeongseongsa Temple. In 1498, under Queen Jeonghyeon (1462-1530), the temple was renovated and renamed Bongeunsa Temple.

A giant Buddha that stands 75 feet (23 m.) tall. This statue is called Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha). During the Joseon Dynasty, Buddhism in Korea was suppressed. Bongeunsa means the act of honoring the king.

I’m beginning to wonder if there’s a protocol for temples and palaces to follow with respect to colors and design.

A closer look.

There were a lot of statues….

If you look at the Buddha photo you’ll see that they have probably thousands of smaller statues.

And a painting.

I’m fairly certain those are Kwanzan cherry blossoms. They were just opening.

Finally, they had colorful lanterns to which people could attach wishes. It was so beautiful.

Great weekend, everyone!

{carole}