Mountain God Hall

Beomeosa Temple
Busan, Korea

No visit to a Korean mountain temple would be complete without paying respects to the mountain god. This hall is tucked away -- and quite appropriately so -- beside the Arhat shrine seen on the previous page; for Arhats, too, are associated with the mountains. Although it may not catch the eye at first glance from down below, the shrine opens up beautifully when you approach on its own level (middle photo). The lower photo of the shrine interior leaves much to be desired because of some unfortunate glass reflections, but it is the only one I have. Perhaps the god was feeling shy that day.