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’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.