Cheongju Yonghwasa Temple (용화사(청주))

This temple was founded in 1902. Yonghwasa Temple can be found about 2 kilometers down the small road from a National Road connecting Judeok-eup, Cheongju, with Eumseong. Unlike other Buddhist temples, which tend to be located in secluded places, Yonghwasa Temple is easily reachable from the city, attracting many visitors. Set against a backdrop of green lawns and forests, the temple's stupas, stelae, three-story stone pagodas, and guardian trees bring Buddhist culture to life. A Goryeo-era Standing Stone Buddha, a cultural heritage, can be found in the complex. Its elegant and full body, round face, and delicate expression of folds in the Buddha&rsquo;s clothing all showcase the unique qualities of Goryeo-era Buddhist sculptures. The Buddha holds a medicine bowl in the left hand, which heals all diseases and eliminates all distractions in pursuit of truth.&nbsp;<br>