Sinheungsa Temple (Samcheok)

Samcheok Sinheungsa Temple was founded in the first year of King Minae of Silla (838) by National Preceptor Beomil as Jihheungsa Temple in Jihheung-ri, Bukpyeong-eup (now in Donghae City). In the 15th year of King Hyeonjong (1674), it was moved to its current location and renamed Gwangunsa Temple. In the 21st year of King Sunjo (1821), Magistrate Yi Heon-gyu renamed it Sinheungsa Temple. It was repaired in July of the 14th year of King Cheoljong (1863).

Within the temple grounds are cultural heritage materials called Seolseondang and Simgeomdang. Seolseondang, built in the 15th year of King Hyeonjong, was a place where Buddhist disciples were taught, and Simgeomdang, built in the 47th year of King Yeongjo, was the residence of the head monk, named as the house where one seeks the sword of wisdom. It is also called Jinyeonggak because portraits of virtuous monks were kept there. These two buildings were constructed simply and modestly without dancheong (traditional decorative coloring). They are designated as Cultural Heritage Material No. 108.