Sanasagyegok Valley

Sanasa Valley is a valley developed on the southwestern slope of Yongmunsan Mountain. It is wide, with clean water and abundant water volume. The road is paved up to the entrance of the valley, and the path ascending to Sanasa Temple features the dense forest and ridges of Yongmunsan Mountain, creating a spectacular view. Every summer, it is crowded with vacationers. Camping or homestay accommodations are available near the valley, and hiking to Baegunbong Peak and Yongmunsan Mountain can also be enjoyed. Nearby, there is the Keun Gol Valley flowing from Daebusan Mountain, which includes a paragliding launch site, Yangpyeong-gun Youth Training Center, and Seolmaejae Recreational Forest. About 100 meters up from the valley entrance, you will find Hamwanghyeol, a cave associated with the legend of Hamwang, a local magnate from the Goryeo period. A little further up, along a deep valley, lies the modestly nestled Sanasa Temple. Behind Sanasa Temple, a hiking trail leads up to Baegunbong Peak.

Sanasa Temple is where the name Jogye Order was first used in Korean Buddhism, unifying the Five Doctrines and Nine Mountains that had been passed down since the Unified Silla period. It is the temple where the eminent monk Bowoo spent his later years. Bowoo established a unified order integrating Seon and Doctrine, enjoyed the status of Royal Preceptor and National Preceptor, but preferred mountain temples over palaces. Therefore, the period when Bowoo stayed was the most prosperous time for Sanasa Temple. Records state that during this time, Sanasa Temple was rebuilt on a large scale with 140 rooms. Within the temple grounds, there are the Stele of National Preceptor Wonjeung at Sanasa Temple and the Stupa of National Preceptor Wonjeung.