Overview
The symbol of Hakdoam is the massive rock-carved seated Guanyin Bodhisattva, 13.4 meters tall, carved into the large rock behind the hermitage. This rock-carved seated Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue was commissioned and created in 1870 (the 7th year of King Gojong) by Empress Myeongseong, and with a compassionate smile, it looks down upon sentient beings, making it a famous feature not only of Hakdogam but also of Nowon-gu. Many rock-carved Buddha statues remain nationwide, but few have carved Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva—only a handful remain. Among them, the Hakdoam rock-carved Seated Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is the largest and most clearly preserved, and is considered an important cultural asset. Hakdoam is a precious temple surrounded by beautiful scenery where cranes fly and play, and fragrant flowers are placed beneath the largest rock-carved Guanyin Bodhisattva statue in the country.