Gochang Seonunsa Temple (선운사 (고창))

Seonunsa Temple in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do, is a 6th-century Buddhist monastery at the base of Seonunsan, especially celebrated for the camellia grove behind its main hall — one of the largest in Korea, blooming scarlet against snow in late winter and early spring. The compound holds several national treasures, most famously a finely carved Buddhist relief on a cliff face and the temple's original wooden main hall. The approach passes through a stream-cut valley with stone bridges and old maples that turn brilliant in November. Allow ninety minutes including the camellia grove. Free entry. Pair with Seonunsan ridge trails or the Gochang dolmen UNESCO World Heritage site for a fuller day.