Hiking was never something I enjoy and usually try to avoid. However, with one of my close friends visiting Daegu I gave hiking another chance.
We have decided to visit one of Korea's National Treasures "Mt. Palgong Gatbawi Temple" also known as the national treasure no. 431. We took the subway [Green line] until we reached Yeungnam University Station [₩1250] and then took an 803 bus that takes us to Mt. Palgong Gatbawi Temple [free of charge due to using the subway].
The whole journey took around 2 hours and a half until we reached the start of a new journey. Because of the humidity, our hiking path was tough but reaching the peak of the mounting was a very rewarding experience. When we arrived at the peak of the mountain there was a special all prayer happing called "The 100 weeks prayer" there were lots of parents praying for their kids to pass their tests.
I have discovered that this Buddha according to the local folktale, the buddha will grant at least one wish to those who earnestly plead to him. Because the buddha's hat looks like a graduation cap, it is also believed that he helps students get good results on the college entrance exam, and thus many people visit Mt. Palgong Gatbawi to pray.
With that discovery, I was reflecting on our journey to reach the peak. It was really difficult and in some moments I just want to return to the bus station and head home. However, I was thinking to myself if I give up now I will miss lots of opportunities and experiences. The same goes for my journey here in Korea and learning the language. Even when it was difficult and hard with Corona hitting us and changing our whole lifestyle we did not give up and will never give up.
This might be a small treasure in Daegu but it toughs me a huge lesson. I hope you can experience something similar where ever you go.
Pictures are well taken and the uploaded content in informative...keep it up