Visit to the Abandoned Temples from Beopcheonsaji to Heungbeopsaji in Wonju

In the southwestern part of Wonju, there are temple sites where the buildings are gone but one can guess their scale from the pagodas, stone carvings, platforms, and excavation traces. Beopcheonsaji and Geodonsa show the status of a large temple connected to the transportation of the Namhan River, while Heungbeopsa evokes thoughts of the Goryeo Buddhist network through its remaining stone pagodas and steles. Observing empty spaces rather than completed structures is essential at these abandoned sites.

Ippseoksaji, Yeongwonsaji, Sangwonsaji, Gukhyungsaji, and Bomunsa are currently active mountain temples that allow visitors to compare how Buddhist architecture and worship spaces are used following visits to the abandoned sites. Sangwonsaji and Yeongwonsaji are located deep in Chiaksan Mountain, making them more challenging to hike, whereas Bomunsa in the city is easily accessible. Let's not group the three abandoned sites in Buronmyeon and the mountain temples in Chiaksan on the same day, but separate them into southwestern and mountain temple explorations.

At the abandoned sites, one needs the imagination to envision what is not visible. By connecting the locations of the stone pagodas, the platforms of the main hall, and the orientations of the stupas and steles, one can see how a once-grand temple, now covered in weeds, transformed into a gathering place for people and goods. Active mountain temples exemplify the continuity of religion and highlight the differences between restored ruins and living spaces.

Temple sites often lack shade and facilities, and access areas can change due to excavations and maintenance. In summer, it's advisable to bring hats and water, and in winter, windproof gear. When visiting mountain temples, be sure to observe quietly so as not to disturb religious services, and check access regulations for Sangwonsaji and Yeongwonsaji. Since original artifacts may be housed in different museums, confirming the status of previous exhibits and restorations from on-site information boards can enhance the accuracy of your exploration.