Download Hwanseongsa Temple Location: 150 Sagi-ri, Hayang

Hwanseongsa Temple
Location: 150 Sagi-ri, Hayang-eup, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Hwanseongsa Temple was established by Royal Preceptor Simji in 835 (the 10th year of King
Heungdeok’s reign) during the Silla Dynasty.
Simji was a son of King Heondeok, the 41st ruler of the Silla Dynasty. He trained himself in Jungak
and succeeded the religious tradition from Buddhist monk Yeongsim at Gilsangsa Temple on
Songnisan Mountain. Later, he became the founder of Donghwasa Temple.
Along with Donghwasa, Hwanseongsa prospered as its Iljumun (main gate) was built with four stone
pillars. However, the temple was rebuilt several times during the Goryeo Period, ruining the original
structure of the temple in many places.
In 1592 (the 25th year of the reign of King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty), Supreme Master
Samyeong partially restored the temple, and Supreme Master Singam had the entire temple and its
precincts rebuilt in 1635 (the 13th year of King Injo’s reign). Later, in 1897, Suwolgwan Hall,
Daeungjeon Hall and its affiliated temple were constructed at the command of Supreme Master
Seonwol.
Also, Seongjeonam Hermitage and Sansingak Shrine were built and 16 arhats were enshrined in
Eungjinjeon Hall.
Daeungjeon Hall of Hwanseongsa Temple is designated as Treasure No. 562, while Simgeomdang
Hall is designated as Gyeongsangbuk-do Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 84. Suwolgwan, Sumidan
Altar and two stone basins in the temple are also designated as local cultural heritages.