Hakdoam (Seoul)

The symbol of Hakdoam is a giant seated rock-carved Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Maae Gwan-eum Bosal-jwasang) carved on a large rock face behind the hermitage, reaching a height of 13.4 meters. This rock-carved Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is said to have been commissioned by Empress Myeongseong in 1870 (the 7th year of King Gojong's reign), and it gazes upon sentient beings with a compassionate smile, making it not only a landmark of Hakdoam but also of Nowon-gu. While many rock-carved Buddhas (Maae-bul) remain across the country, those depicting Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva are rare and can be counted on one hand. Among them, the Hakdoam rock-carved Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is the largest and most clearly preserved, regarded as an important cultural property. Thus, Hakdoam, surrounded by scenery beautiful enough for cranes to visit and play, is a precious sanctuary where incense and flowers are offered beneath the largest rock-carved Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva in the country.

Address: 89, Junggye-ro 14da-gil, Nowon-gu, Seoul