Arched Bridge of Heungguksa Temple, Yeosu

This bridge located at the entrance of Heungguksa Temple is the largest stone arched bridge in Korea. It measures 5.5m in height, 11.3m in width, and 40m in length. It is presumed to have been built around 1639 when Heungguksa Temple was reconstructed. Due to heavy rain, parts of the bridge collapsed in 1981, but the bridge was repaired the following year.

The rocks on the banks of the creek were used as foundation stones for the 86 square polished granite stones that were interlocked and exquisitely laid in such a way that the bridge supports its own weight. In the center of the bridge, carvings of dragon heads were placed under both sides of the bridge creating the impression that the dragons are looking down. On the balustrade are stones carved with goblin faces which are believed to stop evil spirits and protect all those who cross this bridge as they enter into the land of Buddha.

Source: Korea Heritage Service signboard ↗ · collected 2026-10-08