Haeinsa

Overview

Introduction

In the midst of the eerie Gayasan National Park, 175 mi/280 km southeast of Seoul, is Korea's holiest temple, Haeinsa. A ninth-century Buddhist temple, it covers 4 sq mi/10 sq km and has more than 81,000 wooden printing blocks (Tripitaka Koreana) used to print Buddhist scriptures—the most complete collection anywhere. Unfortunately, these buildings (built in the 15th century to house the blocks) are normally locked, so it's usually only possible to see the blocks through slatted windows. Nearby are a dozen hermitages and excellent hiking trails. Haeinsa is usually seen as a half-day visit from Daegu.

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