Chan Yuan Temple

Chan Yuan Temple

Chan Yuan Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Chan Yuan Temple is located at the foot of four peaks—Zhaoming, Xuri, Cuiwei, and Yanghe—and embraced by two mountains, Qinglong and Baihu. It is surrounded by ancient trees as majestic as dragons and crystal-clear streams.

History: The temple was first built during the Ming Dynasty (1425). In the fourth year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, National Master Yulin renovated the old structures and expanded the temple, gradually restoring its former grandeur. Covering an area of over 40 acres, the temple once had more than 500 rooms and, at its peak, housed over 1,300 monks. In the 11th year of the Yongzheng reign, the emperor inscribed the plaque “Chan Yuan Temple” and bestowed it upon the temple. Emperor Qianlong visited the temple twice during his southern tours and presented Buddhist scriptures.

In the 10th year of the Xianfeng reign, the temple was destroyed in war. Although it was repaired over the following decades, it never regained its former appearance. In the 15th year of the Tongzhi reign, due to the efficacious rain prayer of the deity Skanda (Weituo), the emperor bestowed the plaque “Blessing and Protection for Qiancheng” (Qiancheng was the ancient name of Yuqian County in the Qing Dynasty, now Yuqian Town in Lin’an District) and hung it in the temple. In April 1941, Chan Yuan Temple was bombed by Japanese invading forces, resulting in the destruction of some buildings.

Introduction

　Hall of Heavenly Kings

It is the first hall after entering the mountain gate. Built with brick and wood, it is painted bright red. In the courtyard in front of the hall, there is an ancient podocarpus tree with twisted and gnarled branches, exuding a simple and vigorous charm. It was planted by National Master Yulin.

Behind the Hall of Heavenly Kings, ascending 36 stone steps leads to the Skanda Hall. The structure is made of brick and wood, with carved windows and doors. The courtyard contains ancient and famous trees such as golden osmanthus, silver osmanthus, and loquat trees planted during the Qing Dynasty.

Twin Clear Pools

Located on the east side of Chan Yuan Temple at the foot of the Qinglong Mountain. Surrounded by ancient ginkgo, yew, and maple trees that shade the area, green bamboo and weeping willows sway gracefully, while golden osmanthus and magnolia trees emit fragrance. Their reflections in the water create picturesque mountain scenery.