A monk's purple garden blooms in Mungyeong

Mungyeong, nestled in North Gyeongsang Province, is home to an enchanting sight that captivates all who traverse its country roads. As the mist dissipates along the path, a kaleidoscope of pale purple blossoms unfurls, enveloping the area in an otherworldly haze. The breathtaking panorama unfolds on the wooded slopes of Mount Wolbang, where Bongcheon Temple, a humble Buddhist sanctuary, is completely draped in a sea of asters every autumn.

The annual spectacle is nothing short of awe-inspiring, with an estimated 23,100 square meters of vibrant purple flowers stretching far and wide. However, this year's display stands out, with the flowers thriving in abundance. The journey to this floral paradise began 12 years ago when the temple's abbot arrived at a desolate landscape.

The hillside, previously overgrown with kudzu vines and sporadically adorned with small vegetable plots tended by locals, bore little resemblance to the lush, purple tapestry that now graces it.

Determined to introduce a wildflower capable of flourishing in the rocky, weed-covered terrain, the monk made a prudent choice. He selected the asters, a resilient and visually striking species. Over time, a mere seven asters germinated, gradually transforming the barren hillside into a spectacular display of purple hues. Today, the once-barren landscape is a testament to the power of perseverance and the tenacity of nature, attracting visitors from near and far to revel in the tranquility and beauty of Bongcheon Temple's purple garden.