Tripitaka Koreana

Welcome, traveler, to the profound and sacred grounds of Haeinsa Temple, nestled deep within the embrace of Mount Gaya in Hapcheon, Gyeongsang Province. I am delighted to be your guide today through an unparalleled journey into…

We have now entered the main lower courtyard of Haeinsa Temple, the bustling heart of the monastic community. Look around at the sweeping, elegantly curved rooflines of the various halls dedicated to prayer, meditation, and…

We are now standing at the base of the steep, formidable stone stairways that lead to the highest precinct of Haeinsa Temple. Look up. …

We have now crossed the threshold and stand within the central courtyard of the Janggyeong Panjeon, the sacred depository complex built exclusively to house the Tripitaka Koreana. Take a moment to stand perfectly still in the…

Turn your attention now to the long building forming the southern boundary of the courtyard. This is the Sudarajang depository. …

Now, let us walk across the courtyard to the northern building, directly opposite the Sudarajang. This is the Beopbojeon Hall. …

Turn your gaze now to the two smaller buildings that enclose the eastern and western ends of the courtyard. These are the Dongsaganjeon, the East Hall, and the Seosaganjeon, the West Hall. …

Step as close as you are permitted to the wooden slats of the windows. Cup your hands around your eyes to block the glare of the sun, and peer deeply into the dimly lit interior. …

As we step away from the slatted windows of the Janggyeong Panjeon and begin our slow descent back down the mountain, take a moment to absorb the magnitude of what you have just witnessed. The path back down is the same, but you…