Discover the Eternal Love Story at Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha
Welcome to Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha, a historic and romantic tourist destination that will transport you back to the Goryeo era. As you explore this serene site, you’ll be captivated by the tale of two star-crossed lovers depicted through two magnificent Buddha statues. Let’s delve into the history and charm of this extraordinary place.
A Love Story Engraved in Stone
Treasure No. 46, Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha, is a unique cultural artifact that tells the story of an eternal, yet unrequited love. The two Buddha statues, each standing at an impressive height of 424 cm, face each other from a distance of 200 meters. Legend has it that these statues depict two lovers who can only meet for a single night in the twelfth month of the lunar calendar.
As the sun sets on that fateful day, the lovers are allowed to come together, but they must return to their respective positions before the dawn breaks and the rooster crows. This poignant tale of love and sacrifice has captured the hearts of visitors from all around the world, making Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and romantics alike.
A Glimpse into the Goryeo Era
The two statues at Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha are iconic representations of the Goryeo era, an important period in Korean history. During this time, stone statues were created with minimal expression of the physical body, focusing more on simplicity and spirituality.
In keeping with the artistic style of the era, each Buddha is depicted with subtle features, with minimal curves and plain clothing. The arms are barely distinguishable, allowing the statues to exude an air of tranquility and serenity. The square faces, small eyes, pug noses, and small lips of the Buddhas resemble the guardian deities that were traditionally placed at the entrance of villages, adding an element of protection and sacredness to the site.
How to Get There
If you’re traveling by bus, you have a couple of options to reach Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha. From Iksan Station, you can take Bus 65 or 65-1 and alight at Cheonma-dong Bus Stop. Alternatively, you can opt for Bus 41, 60, 61, 62, 63, or 64 and head to Geumma Terminal, which is approximately 1.4 kilometers away from the site.
Prepare to be enchanted by the mesmerizing love story and the cultural significance of Iksan Godori Standing Stone Buddha. Whether you’re a history buff, a hopeless romantic, or simply someone seeking a unique experience, this destination promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
