Naksansa is said to have been founded by the Silla monk Uisang, on a coastal hill looking out over the East Sea. A huge wildfire in 2005 destroyed many of its buildings, but they have since been rebuilt.
Highlights
- Uisangdae — a pavilion on the cliff edge, one of the best-loved sunrise spots on the east coast.
- Hongnyeonam — a tiny hermitage built on a sea rock; through a hole in the floor of the hall you can see the waves below.
- The Seawater Guanyin statue — a large statue of the bodhisattva of compassion facing the sea.
Nearby
Yangyang is also Korea’s surfing hotspot. After the sunrise, head to the beaches nearby or continue north to Sokcho.