Sinheungsa temple sits at the entrance to the Cheonbuldong valley in Oesorak, the starting point for most trails in the main section of the park. The temple compound itself is modest in scale but beautifully sited — surrounded by tall pines and backed by granite ridgelines. The temple buildings are well-maintained examples of Korean Buddhist architecture, with painted wooden columns, curved tile roofs, and shrines housing gilded Buddha images.
A giant bronze Unification Buddha statue near the temple entrance is a conspicuous modern addition, symbolising the hoped-for reunification of Korea. Beyond the temple, the main park trail continues into the Cheonbuldong valley toward Biryong Falls, Ulsanbawi, and the higher peaks. The site is busy during holidays; if you have arrived to hike, push through the temple area early and head up the valley where the crowds thin.