Zhonghui Temple

Zhonghui Temple

Zhonghui Temple is a cultural relic protection unit of Liaoning Province.

Zhonghui Temple: Located north of Da’an Temple in Qianshan. In front of the temple stands a stele from the fourth year of the Jiajing era of the Ming Dynasty (1525), which reads: “In the mountains south of Xiangping in Qianshan, there were five ancient temples built by imperial decree since the Tang Dynasty, among which Zhonghui is centrally situated.” Hence the name Zhonghui Temple. The temple complex includes a main hall, front hall, meditation room, waterside pavilion, rear pavilion, and more. The temple faces two peaks known as Conch and Vase, and is backed by the Rhino Gazing at the Moon Peak. As described in a poem from the Ming Dynasty: “Fragrance of flowers drifts over the stupa courtyard, rosy clouds cast shadows on the lofty ridge. Distant temple bells echo softly, surrounding peaks guard the emerald woods,” which praises the scenic beauty of Zhonghui.

According to records of its renovation, Zhonghui Temple existed as early as the Tang Dynasty. Having survived several fires and floods, it has been rebuilt many times, and most of its current structures feature Ming Dynasty architectural styles. Zhonghui Temple is divided into upper and lower halls, with the front hall facing a stream and the rear hall nestled against the mountain, showcasing ingenious layout. In addition to the front and rear halls, key structures include the Heaven and Earth Tower, Skanda Tower, Bell and Drum Tower, and meditation room. The halls house exquisite sculptures and painted artworks. Located in the middle valley of Qianshan, Zhonghui Temple is one of the Five Great Buddhist Monasteries of Qianshan. It earned the name "Zhonghui" (Central Gathering) because it lies in the center of the five temples and was historically where monks from these temples often gathered. It is also a municipal-level key cultural relic protection unit.

The architecture of Zhonghui Temple clearly shows a distinction between old and new. The newer structure is the Pilu Treasure Hall, the most magnificent building in the temple, which took three years to build and was completed in 1999. Passing the main hall, you can see the older structures, starting with the Heaven and Earth Tower — the only single-eave palace-style temple architecture in Qianshan. Built with brick and wood, it covers an area of 21 square meters, with small gate towers on the east and west sides, showcasing delicate beauty. From its elevated position, the views are breathtaking. Opposite the Heaven and Earth Tower stands a 300-year-old ancient cypress tree, which emits a faint fragrance and is also called the Fragrant Cypress. Behind the tree is the Guanyin Hall. Beyond the Guanyin Hall lies the main hall of Zhonghui Temple, the Zhiyuan Dharma Realm, a refined chamber where eminent monks deliver sermons. On the southern slope of the Five Elders Peak stands a white brick pagoda, two meters high, square-shaped and white, resembling a bottle when viewed from afar, hence named the Vase Peak. Other scenic spots of Zhonghui Temple, besides Vase Peak, include the Water-Dripping Mirage, West Lake Well, Exquisite Treasure Spring Cave, Treasure Pearl Courtyard, Rhino Gazing at the Moon, Stone Pile Iron Arhats, Guanyin Reversed, and Conch Peak. Collectively known as the Twelve Scenic Spots of Zhonghui, each spot boasts unique features, exquisite beauty, diverse forms, and ever-changing views, captivating visitors and making them linger without wanting to leave.

Protected Area: Centered on the main gate, extending 310 meters east, 70 meters south, 90 meters west, and 80 meters north.

Construction Control Zone: A first-class control zone within 45 meters outside the protected area, and a second-class control zone within 50 meters beyond the first-class zone.

Further Reading:

· Sixth Batch of Cultural Relic Protection Units of Liaoning Province