Hyuhyuam (Gangwon): A Miracle Embraced by the East Sea, Tranquility Found

One day, an astonishing shape was discovered on a quiet beach in Yangyang, Gangwon, where only the sound of waves filled the air. The rock of Gwanseeumbosal, lying as if in a deep sleep, transformed the ordinary hermitage into a sacred space bustling with countless visitors. This is precisely Hyuhyuam (Gangwon), which means ‘rest and rest again’.

Hearts tired from everyday life naturally seek a place to rest. If you wish to catch your breath for a moment in a world full of worries, and fully reflect on yourself amidst the comfort of nature, why not follow the story of this place that conveys a message of peace with the waves?

This small hermitage, founded by Ven. Hongbeop in 1997, has been reborn as a unique prayer site and tourist attraction, embracing the blue energy of the East Sea, following a special discovery in 1999. From now on, let’s take a closer look at the unique charm of Hyuhyuam (Gangwon), which you simply cannot pass by.

Hyuhyuam: A Miracle Embraced by the East Sea, Born from a Momentary Discovery

Hyuhyuam (Gangwon) is a hermitage located on the beautiful coastline of Hyeonnam-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. As its name suggests, it was built with the hope that people would leave behind all their daily worries and rest for a while. Initially, it started humbly with a small Dharma hall called Myojeokjeon, but the rock in the shape of Gwanseeumbosal discovered on the beach in 1999 transformed it into a special prayer site beyond a simple hermitage.

A Masterpiece Crafted by Waves and Time: A Feast of Strange Rocks

Below Myojeokjeon, on the beach, a wide rock spreads out, named ‘Yeonhwadae’ for its resemblance to a fully bloomed lotus flower. On this Yeonhwadae, you can find the famous Gwanseeumbosal Rock along with a mysterious turtle-shaped rock. Visitors flock here year-round, as if the Dragon King of the East Sea is protecting the Buddhist dharma. In addition, strange and grotesque rocks formed by nature, such as the Balgarak Bawi (Toe Rock), Balbadak Bawi (Footprint Rock), and Jumeokbawi (Fist Rock), add to the mystique, and sometimes you can even have the good fortune of encountering schools of hwang-eo (dace) coming to the beach for food.

• Gwanseeumbosal Rock A strange-shaped rock, lying peacefully on the beach as if embracing all living beings.
• Geobugi Bawi (Turtle Rock) A symbol wishing for longevity, appearing as if moving towards the sea next to the Gwanseeumbosal Rock.
• Yeonhwadae A wide rock, among many others, spread out like lotus petals, holding special meaning.
• Gi-amgweoseok (Grotesque Rocks) Diverse-shaped rocks such as toes, footprints, and fists line the coastline, adding to the mystique.

Jihye Gwanseeumbosal, Standing with Her Back to the Blue East Sea: Peace in Suspended Time

Another specialty of Hyuhyuam (Gangwon) is the Jihye Gwanseeumbosal Statue, towering on a seaside hill. Standing against the backdrop of the blue East Sea, this Bodhisattva statue is a painting in itself. Flanked by the Donghae Yongwang Statue and the Namsun Dongja Statue, it creates an even more magnificent and mysterious atmosphere. The appearance of the Gwanseeumbosal Statue harmonized with the vast landscape of the East Sea offers deep emotion and tranquility to visitors. Standing here, you feel as if time has stopped, and all worries and anxieties are carried away by the waves.

Spaces for Peace of Mind

Hyuhyuam is not just a place that offers beautiful scenery. From Myojeokjeon, Darani Gulfbeopdang (Cave Dharma Hall), Gwaneum Beomjong (Gwaneum Bell), to the Jihye Gwanseeumbosal Statue, all spaces are designed for visitors to find peace of mind and spiritual comfort. In particular, the Darani Gulfbeopdang (Cave Dharma Hall) is an excellent place for meditation in a quiet and cozy atmosphere.

The Path to Hyuhyuam (Gangwon): Letting Go of Worries

The Path to a Quiet Sanctuary

Hyuhyuam (Gangwon), located at 3-16 Gwangjin 2-gil, Hyeonnam-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, is easily accessible by car: take the Yeongdong Expressway, enter Yangyang JC, then exit at Hyeonnam IC on the Donghae Expressway. When using public transportation, it is convenient to take a bus heading towards Hyeonnam-myeon from Yangyang Intercity Bus Terminal or use a taxi. The spectacular scenery of the East Sea unfolding along the way will make your steps towards Hyuhyuam even lighter.

Moments Not to Miss at Hyuhyuam

1. Finding the Lying Gwanseeumbosal Rock Find the Gwanseeumbosal Rock, which appears to be lying on its back to the sea on Yeonhwadae, and make a wish. It’s also fun to look for the Geobugi Bawi (Turtle Rock) next to it.
2. Enjoying the Scenery in Front of the Jihye Gwanseeumbosal Statue In front of the Jihye Gwanseeumbosal Statue, towering against the backdrop of the blue East Sea, take some time to meditate while admiring the panoramic sea view.
3. Encountering Schools of Hwang-eo (Dace) If you’re lucky, you might encounter schools of hwang-eo (dace) coming to the beach for food. Observe quietly and feel a connection with nature.
4. Visiting the Darani Gulfbeopdang (Cave Dharma Hall) It’s also good to sit quietly in the tranquil atmosphere of the cave temple, letting go of worries and purifying your mind.
5. Watching the Sunrise It is also famous as a magnificent sunrise spot on the East Sea. Visit in the early morning to greet the sun rising over the sea and create unforgettable memories.

Lingering Scent of the Sea: Things to Enjoy Around Hyuhyuam

If you wish to experience Yangyang’s beautiful nature and culture more deeply even after visiting Hyuhyuam, we recommend exploring nearby attractions. The vicinity of Hyuhyuam (Gangwon) is full of diverse sights and activities, adding richness to your trip.

• Jukdojeong & Ingu Beach Famous for its beautiful beach and surfing spots. You can enjoy the sea in an atmosphere full of youth and vitality.
• Hajodae & Hajodae Beach A tranquil pavilion built on a strange rock cliff, harmonizing with the beach, creates a spectacular view. It is also considered one of the best sunrise spots.
• Yangyang Naksansa One of the three major Gwaneum sacred sites on the East Coast, it is an ancient temple located on the beach. You can experience a different historical depth and beauty compared to Hyuhyuam.
• Namae Port A port where you can enjoy a small and charming fishing village scenery. It’s a great place to taste fresh seafood or enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What does Hyuhyuam mean?
Hyuhyuam means ‘rest and rest again’. It was named with the hope that modern people, tired from daily life, can let go of all worries, rest for a while, and find peace of mind.

Q2. What are Hyuhyuam’s most significant features?
The most significant features are the Gwanseeumbosal-shaped rock and the Geobugi Bawi (turtle rock), which appear to be lying on the beach. Thanks to these mysterious natural rocks, Hyuhyuam has become famous as a sacred prayer site, attracting countless visitors.

Q3. Is there anything special to see when visiting Hyuhyuam?
Be sure to find the Gwanseeumbosal Rock and the Geobugi Bawi (turtle rock) on Yeonhwadae. Additionally, the harmonious scenery of the Jihye Gwanseeumbosal Statue on the seaside hill and the blue East Sea is a highlight not to be missed.

Q4. Are there any nearby places worth visiting around Hyuhyuam?
Yes, there are many beautiful East Coast attractions near Hyuhyuam, such as Jukdojeong, Hajodae, Naksansa, and Namae Port. You can enjoy the diverse nature and culture of Yangyang by exploring them together with Hyuhyuam.

Q5. Is there an admission fee for Hyuhyuam?
Hyuhyuam is a hermitage that can be visited freely without a separate entrance fee. Parking facilities are well-equipped, but it’s good to note that it can be somewhat crowded on weekends or during peak season.