Sokcho Day 2

We went back up the mountain again today and the weather is looking really nice compared with yesterday.  We attempt a different trail that promises some outstanding views.

Along the way we come upon a grotto - a Buddhist hermitage first established in 652 CE.

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Here's our goal for the day:

The trail is well marked, just follow the old rocks creating a rough staircase.

Getting closer to the base of the towering rocks now...

The next milestone is an intermediate way point - the winds are strong today.

Now onto sets of actual staircases going up the rock faces...

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The summit is made...

...and the views are indeed outstanding.

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Ahhhh, there's that wind again!

Going back down now, this will be a real knee slammer.

Now back down to the stream valley and our chance to tour the complex of temples and shrines we passed on the way up.
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"Sinheungsa is a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism situated on the slopes of Seoraksan.  Historical accounts vary as to whether this ancient Zen (Seon) temple was first constructed by Jajang in 653 CE, first called Hyangseongsa (Temple of Zen Buddhism), or even earlier in 637 CE following his return from Tang China.  It burned to the ground in 699 CE, was rebuilt in 710 CE, burned again in 1645 and was rebuilt in 1648 at its present location by Uisang.  This temple is believed to be the oldest Zen (Seon) temple in the world."

The temple complex has quite the magical setting amongst the peaks of Seoraksan National Park.

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After returning to town, it is now time to rediscover that magical elixir called beer...

...and consume the pizza they cut into squares and place on a stainless steel offering rack.

We exit too soon the temple of mysterious brewery equipment, where barley enters and beer departs.