As a branch temple of Geumsansa Temple in Gimje, Hwaamsa is believed to have been founded during the reign of King Munmu of Silla based on records that Buddhist monks Wonhyo and Uisang stayed here for further enlightenment after studying in Tang China. The Geungnakjeon Hall of this temple appears to have been built in 1605, according to records found during the reconstruction in 1981. It measures three kan (unit of measurement referring to the distance between two columns) at the front and three kan on the side and has a hipped-and-gabled roof. This hall shows a unique structure not found anywhere else in Korea. Additional members support the eaves like a lever; thus allowing the eaves to extend further.