Built in 632 under the Baekje kingdom, it lies on the slopes of Baegam-san in Naejangsan National Park.

The name of the temple means "white sheep," and refers to a legend from the Goryeo period in which a white sheep came down from the mountain to listen to a sermon and was sufficiently enlightened that it was able to ascend into Paradise.

These days, a large role has been given to Baegyang Temple for educating monks around Jeolla province.

The temple has recently become well-known as the home of monk and chef Jeong Kwan.

Large numbers of Torreya nucifera grow around Baegyang Temple.