One of the great temples in Korea, Haeinsa is located in Gayasan National Park about an hour Southwest of Daegu. The temple itself is worth exploring, but the woodblocks is what makes Haeinsa truly special. The number of woodblocks is exceptional and considering that these Buddhist sutras are numerous centuries old is something to marvel at. Indeed, these treasures were commissioned during the Goryeo Dynasty. Plan additional time getting to the temple as its a bit out of the way.

In addition to basic logistics, there are factors worth considering. Haeinsa is a historic temple, but by no means is it the most authentic, exceptional, or representative Korean Buddhist temple. Its OUV lies primarily in the Janggyeongpanjeon, which was constructed to house the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks. 

Despite two visits, I have relatively few photos and this reflects the reality, you are not supposed to take photos of the woodblocks. Moreover, the Janggyeongpanjeon Depositories are functional and well-designed, but the exteriors are not necessarily a great photograph subject. So, while I did not take numerous photographs as I did at Hwaeomsa Temple, I loved spending time exploring Haeinsa.

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