2006, Unmunsa temple

Roof of the Daewongbojeon Hall

Unmunsa temple
청도 운문사
2006. 6. 21

Unmunsa Temple in Cheongdo, Gyeongsangbuk-do belongs to Cheongdo-gun in terms of administrative district. However, it is actually better connected to Daegu. Unmunsa Temple was built in 560 during the Silla period. This ancient temple features seven treasured artifacts including an old pine tree (natural monument) and stone lantern. There are four small temples (Sariam, Naewonam, Bukdaeam and Cheongsinam) around the temple. Meanwhile, the surrounding forest of pine and fir trees only enhances the temple’s beauty. 

Unmunsa is the largest Buddhist nunnery in Korea, maintaining a capacity of roughly 260 nuns who practice Buddhism for four year periods. But, thanks to its magnificence and lush forest, Mt. Unmunsan, located on the southernmost part of Taebaek Mountains, has become a favorite spot for many tourists.

coring the tree ring

Weeping Pine Tree of Unmunsa Temple, Cheongdo

The Weeping Pine Tree of Unmunsa Temple has branches drooping downward, and it is very rare and valuable. This pine grows in the front yard of Unmunsa Temple, and its age is not known. Since Unmunsa Temple is presumed to have been built 1400 years ago, and this tree is said to be pretty tall during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, it is presumed to be 400 years old. It has height of 9.4m and girth of 3.37m. The tree was once called Bansong (short pine tree whose branches spread widely from the trunk) as it spreads widely and now it is called weeping pine tree as the tree spreads and grows downward at a height of 3m. According to tradition, it is said to have been planted by a Buddhist monk. Since this tree has a beautiful appearance and the typical shape of weeping pine tree as well as biological value, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.