Yongdeoksa

A place to discover mystical legends with your child, Yongdeoksa in Yongin

A temple where long history and legend still live on

Yongdeoksa is a historic temple located midway up Seongnyunsan Mountain in Idong-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do. It is said to have been founded by the eminent Silla monk Yeomgeo Seonsa, and for more than 1,000 years it has been cherished as an important local cultural heritage site. It is also a branch temple of Yongjusa of the 2nd district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

The legend of the dragon and the girl, and a mysterious cave

There is a special legend behind the temple's name, Yongdeoksa. It is said that a dragon once lived in Gulam, a cave hermitage, and that the dragon gave a magical jewel to a girl who was praying for her sick father, healing his illness. This mystical legend gives you a fun story to share with your kids and sparks their imagination during your visit. Behind Daeungjeon, the "cave said to have been home to a dragon" still remains today, drawing the curiosity of many visitors.

Cultural treasures and sights throughout the temple

• Standing Stone Buddha: Inside Daeungjeon, you will find a standing stone Buddha statue believed to date back to the Unified Silla period. It is an especially valuable historic statue, designated as a Gyeonggi-do Cultural Heritage Material.
• Three-story stone pagoda and iron statues: The three-story stone pagoda, said to have been built by Doseon Guksa, and the iron human figures are also important cultural treasures of the temple. Along with the legend that they control the energy of the land, their smiling faces also make them feel friendly to children.
• Daeungjeon, Geungnakjeon, and Sanshingak: The temple is divided into an upper area and a lower area, each with different shrine buildings, so you can walk through and look around at a relaxed pace.

A pleasant walking path and convenient parking

Yongdeoksa is located halfway up Seongnyunsan Mountain, and there is a parking lot along the way to the temple. If you come by car, you can visit with your child without worrying too much about the uphill approach. Around the temple, forests, rocks, and valleys come together to create a lovely setting for a walk.

Why it is great to visit with your child

1. Explore a cave filled with legend and enjoy the fun of looking for the dragon from the story
2. Naturally experience history and culture by viewing old Buddha statues, a stone pagoda, and other cultural treasures
3. Take a peaceful walk or enjoy quiet reflection with your family in a calm atmosphere
4. In spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, you can also enjoy a beautiful flower-lined path

Good things to know before you go

• Driving is more convenient than using public transportation.
• As this is a temple, please be mindful and keep your visit quiet and respectful.
• Children should always be accompanied by a guardian when entering places such as the cave.
• In spring, it is also known as a cherry blossom spot, and during special events such as Buddha's Birthday, you may be able to enjoy unique experiences with your kids.

"Yongdeoksa is a charming temple where mystical legends, history, and beautiful nature come together. If you visit with your child, it can be a special day filled with stories and memorable experiences."