Seongamsa Temple: A hidden gem filled with magnolias, a sanctuary of spring flowers that I wish to keep to myself

WHY VISIT

Located at the foot of Galmibong Peak in Hwangnyeongsan Mountain, the quaint Seongamsa Temple stands out with its grand magnolia trees.By mid-March, as the white magnolia blossoms envelop the temple, visitors dressed in lighter and brighter attire begin to line up for their peaceful outings. Under the shade of the trees, as you gaze at the fully bloomed magnolias, it almost feels like you can hear the clear, innocent laughter of children. 'When magnolias bloom, come listen to their sound; when they fall, come to see a baby’s steps.‘ The poet Kim Ju-dae once likened the fallen petals of magnolias to a baby's feet in his poem. When fallen petals resemble a baby's feet, making one tread carefully to avoid stepping on them, both people and landscapes transform into poetry. The grounds of Seongamsa Temple are said to resemble a turtle laying eggs, with legends suggesting that praying at the Samseongjeon and Yongwangdang Shrines bestows offspring. Just as the plum blossoms begin to fade, the magnolias start to bloom. The scene, dotted with falling magnolia petals, carries a somewhat melancholy beauty. It is recommended to visit before the flowers fade to capture this unique moment.