Xuanyi Temple Park at Zhengyang Pass

Zhengyang Pass Xuanyi Temple Park

Zhengyang Pass Xuanyi Temple Park is a national AAA-level tourist attraction and a cultural tourism site.

Zhengyang Pass, anciently known as Yingwei or Yingkou, also called Yangshi, is a renowned pass in China celebrated both domestically and internationally. The town of Zhengyang had taken shape by the mid-Eastern Zhou Dynasty. According to the Zuo Zhuan (Commentary of Zuo), in the 12th year of Duke Zhao of Lu (530 BC), “the King of Chu hunted in Zhoulai and lodged at Yingwei.” Calculated from this, the town of Zhengyang has a history of over 2,530 years.

Located at the confluence of the Huai River, Ying River, and Pi River, Zhengyang Pass is an important water transport hub along the middle reaches of the Huai River. There is an old saying that “72 rivers flow to Zhengyang,” highlighting its strategic geographical position. Benefiting from water transport and excelling in boating, commerce in Zhengyang Town has thrived since ancient times, making it a key distribution center for goods along the middle Huai River. In recent years, the town has strengthened the protection of historical and cultural heritage, achieving a balance between preservation and development. A number of cultural relics sites have been rebuilt, including Xuanyi Temple Park and the Mosque. Traditional folk arts such as Zhogge (shoulder-pole opera), dragon lanterns, lion lanterns, and flower-drum lanterns have been rediscovered and revitalized. In 2003, the Ministry of Culture officially designated Zhengyang Pass as the “Hometown of Chinese Folk Art.” An increasing number of visitors come to explore the ancient town’s charm, and tourism has gradually become a highlight of the local economy.

The 2A-level Xuanyi Temple Park scenic area is located within Zhengyang Pass Town, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Shouxian County, covering an area of over 80 acres. The park is widely known for the Xuanyi Temple, which was originally built during the Zhenguan era (627–649 AD) of the Tang Dynasty. The temple is situated in the southwestern corner of the park. Inside the main hall of the temple are five bronze statues, including the Dark Heavenly Emperor, all cast in 1512 (the 7th year of the Zhengde reign of the Ming Dynasty) using over four tons of refined copper. These statues are rare masterpieces of ancient sculptural casting art. The park also houses numerous historic sites and scenic spots. During the annual Art Festival on the 19th day of the second lunar month, it attracts over 100,000 visitors from surrounding counties and cities. The Xuanyi Temple has also become a must-visit place of worship for those seeking blessings and peace.