Naksansa Temple

Steve46814 · CC BY-SA 3.0

A clifftop temple with a 15-metre white Avalokiteshvara looking out over the East Sea.

Naksansa was founded in 671 on a cliff facing the sea, and its Uisangdae pavilion on the edge is one of the country's best-known sunrise spots. In 2005 a great forest fire burned most of the temple down; the 15-metre white stone Avalokiteshvara stood untouched in the middle of the flames, and that image became the symbol of the rebuilding. The temple has since been restored and a new bronze bell cast, but blackened pine stumps still stand on the hillside.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Naksansa Temple?

Year-round, best at sunrise

How much does it cost to visit Naksansa Temple?

Free (the cultural heritage fee was abolished in May 2023); parking charged separately

How long do you need at Naksansa Temple?

1.5 hours

What are the opening hours of Naksansa Temple?

05:00–19:00

Did you know

Founded in 671 by the monk Uisang of Silla.
The white stone Avalokiteshvara, 15m tall, was completed in 1977.
A 2005 forest fire destroyed much of the temple, which was then rebuilt.
Uisangdae pavilion on the cliff is a famous sunrise viewpoint.

Travel tips

Come at sunrise and combine it with Naksan beach below.
About 20 minutes from Sokcho, easy to pair with Seoraksan.
A templestay programme runs here, facing the sea.

Source: https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202305011106001

Updated: 2026-08-04