Saturday Part 1: Golden Buddha

As I mentioned last week, Katrina and I were going to venture back to the area where we were sightseeing and were going to attempt to find the giant Golden Buddha statue. Well, we found it! From the picture, the size of the statue is difficult to determine. However, if you look at one of the pictures, you can see me at the bottom and it will give you an idea of the size of the statue itself.

Behind the statue, there were seven or eight heads and around the base, there was the same amount of smaller figures. I am not quite sure the significance of these idols but nevertheless, they were there. In each of the figures around the base of the statue, each being was holding a different weapon or striking a different pose. Regardless, the statue was amazing and quite a sight to see.

(If you look closely, you can see me waving)

(Figurine at the base of the statue)

(Katrina and I in the bell tower with statue in the background)

Beneath the statue was an underground building which seemed to serve as a temple or place for prayer. There was a sign that said no shoes so I took my off and down I went. There was what could best be described as an altar situated at the back of the room. There were incense, a few jars, and an area to leave a donation on the altar. In front of the altar sat a small table with a cushion. The room was brightly decorated and had hanging paper balloons. Around the entire inside of the structure were hundreds of tiny Buddha statues, each one holding a single, white Christmas tree light. Again, without a translator, I have no idea of the significance of each statue. If I had to guess, I would say it was either all of the Buddha's throughout history or each of the priest that had studied at that temple and the rank they had achieved. However, since each was holding a light, I would guess the former rather than the later.

(Altar with smaller statue)

(Balloons - notice the symbol...)

(Miniature Buddha statue's lining the walls of the temple)

(Up close view of mini statues)

Finally, along with several other structures on the compound, there was a large gate which housed a bell. The bell was chained but the architecture of the building and bell itself were beautiful. There was a wonderful view of Suwon from the bell tower but a much better one later in the day. Also, inside the tower was a device which was used to warn citizens a few hundred years ago of invaders. The device is a wooden block carved out in the shape of a dragon. The underside of the dragon was hollowed out and a stick was used to make a large knocking sound, alerting the people to any dangers. Katrina and I spent about half an hour there before making out way to the top of Mt. Paldal.

(Bell Tower at Buddhist Compound)

(Bell)

(Hollowed Dragon to warn of dangers)

(Fun Little Buddha Guy on the Grounds)