A Journey Up to Jeongbangsa: Reflections After the MT in Jecheon
Writer: Seoyoung Hwang
Looking back on our MT trip in Jecheon, the moment that stands out most clearly is our climb to Jeongbangsa. The hike was exhausting, but the sight of the temple at the end made it all worthwhile. The climb was even more challenging because we started in the afternoon, and heavy rain the day before had flooded some parts of the trail. The slippery paths made every step harder, but that struggle made the experience even more memorable.
In this reflection, I want to share what it was like to climb the mountain, the emotions that came up along the way, and the feeling of finally standing in front of Jeongbangsa. I hope this helps future visitors, students planning an MT, or anyone interested in a journey that combines nature and temples to understand not just the physical path but also the emotional journey.
Setting the Stage: Jecheon, Geumsusan, and Jeongbangsa
A little background will help. Jeongbangsa is an ancient Buddhist temple nestled on the cliffs of Geumsusan, near Sinseonbong Peak. It is a branch of Beopjusa, part of the Jogye Order, and is traditionally said to have been founded in 662 by Monk Uisang.
What makes the temple remarkable is that part of its roof is integrated with a natural rock formation. From the temple grounds, you can see Cheongpung Lake and the surrounding mountains, offering both wide panoramic views and a sense of closeness to nature.
The trail to the temple is not easy. Forest paths, rocky stretches, uneven steps, and steep slopes all test both body and mind. Because of the rain the day before, some areas were flooded and the ground was slippery. That made the climb tougher, but it also made the accomplishment feel more rewarding. Every step required attention and care, which made reaching the temple even more satisfying.
Beginning the Ascent: Afternoon Start and Slippery Trails
We started hiking in the afternoon, a little later than usual. The air was still fresh, but the recent rain had left puddles and overflowing streams along the trail. At first, we moved cautiously, navigating the slippery sections slowly. The forest was alive with birds and patches of sunlight peeking through the wet leaves, creating a calm but challenging atmosphere.
As the slope got steeper, the muddy ground made every step more difficult. My legs ached, my lungs burned, and my clothes stuck to my skin. The physical challenge was demanding, and the slippery paths added a mental test as well.
Still, our group encouraged each other along the way. Small jokes and laughter helped lighten the mood even while we concentrated on each step. The combination of exhaustion and the extra challenge from the rain made the hike unforgettable. I realized that such struggles make the reward at the top feel much more meaningful.
Nearing the Summit
After passing the halfway point, the forest thinned and larger rocks appeared on the path. The air was cooler, and the climb became steeper. The slippery rocks and mud required extra care, but then we spotted the temple’s grey roof tiles through the trees. That glimpse gave a burst of energy and reminded us that we were almost there.
In the final stretch, we focused on each step, careful not to slip. The forest finally opened, revealing the temple courtyard, and we stepped onto the grounds. The fatigue and the challenge of the wet trail gave way to exhilaration and awe.
First Impressions of Jeongbangsa
Seeing Jeongbangsa in full for the first time was humbling. The temple seemed to grow naturally from the cliff, the rock forming part of its roof. Standing in the courtyard, I looked down at Cheongpung Lake and the surrounding ridges. The view was breathtaking, and all the aches from navigating the slippery trail seemed to disappear.
Walking among the buildings—the main hall, the bell tower, and smaller shrines—I felt the weight of history. The main hall was built in 1825, and inside, a wooden Avalokitesvara statue and preserved paintings revealed centuries of devotion.
The temple was quiet, yet not silent. The rustle of leaves, distant birds, and shifting sunlight created a peaceful atmosphere. After the challenging, rain-soaked climb, the calm felt even more profound. It was a moment to pause, reflect, and feel gratitude.
Reflection: The Meaning of the Struggle
The hike mattered as much as the destination because the struggle made the reward stronger. If you arrive fresh without effort, you see beauty, but you don’t fully feel it. Exhaustion and the extra challenge from slippery paths made the view and the moment even more special.
Climbing in difficult conditions made us more aware of our limits, strengthened our reliance on each other, and made us pay closer attention to nature. Arriving at the temple, the full impact of the journey was clear, and the view felt like something earned through persistence.
Walking back down, I thought about life. Challenges, obstacles, and slow progress are all part of growth. Persistence matters. Small steps matter. And the satisfaction of reaching a goal comes from overcoming difficulty, not just from arriving.
Practical Notes for Visitors
- Location: Near Sinseonbong Peak on Geumsusan, about 845–1,016 meters above sea level.
- Features: Roof integrated with rock, main halls from 1825, wooden Avalokitesvara statue, preserved paintings.
- Views: Cheongpung Lake, forested ridges, and surrounding mountains.
- Difficulty: Forest trails with rocks, steep slopes, slippery after rain, strenuous near the top.
- Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for mild weather and beautiful foliage.
- Tips: Bring water and snacks, take care on slippery sections, rest when needed, go slowly, encourage companions, and take time to enjoy the view.
Final Thoughts
Descending the trail, I realized that the climb itself was the true gift. Every step on the wet, slippery path made reaching the temple more vivid and meaningful. Whenever I face challenges in the future, I will remember this climb and the lesson it taught me: one step at a time, even when it’s difficult, leads to rewarding moments.
For anyone visiting Jecheon, my advice is to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Pay attention to every step, every breath, and every challenge along the way. When you reach the temple, the beauty of the view, the history, and the mountain will stay with you longer because you truly earned it.
