Zhangqiu Xinglong Temple

Zhangqiu Xinglong Temple

Zhangqiu Xinglong Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Xinglong Temple is located at the southern foot of Jiaoding Mountain in Shixia Village, Guanzhuang Town, Zhangqiu City, 26 kilometers from Mingshui urban area. Commonly known as the "East Temple," it is accessible via Sanzhao Road. It serves as a Buddhist activity site for Zhangqiu City and the surrounding Laiwu region, boasting a long history of Buddhist heritage. Research indicates that the temple was first built during the Kaiyuan period of the Tang Dynasty and was restored in the 41st year of the Kangxi reign (1702 AD). Since its establishment, Xinglong Temple has withstood the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, Republican, and post-liberation eras. During the War of Resistance, General Liao Rongbiao recuperated here under the protection of the monks. After liberation, the last generation of monks, Jing Weifu, presided over the temple until he returned to secular life in 1968, after which Buddhist cultural activities gradually ceased. It wasn’t until early 2005 that the site resumed its role as a Buddhist activity venue.

The scenic area spans over 5,000 acres, featuring complex mountain terrain with numerous secluded valleys, deep caves, cliffs, and clear springs. The area is covered with dense vegetation and retains its pristine natural landscape, offering a remote, tranquil environment with breathtaking scenery and fresh air. The ancient temple lies nestled within, with exquisitely carved and painted buildings, upturned eaves, stone walls, gray tiles, and resplendent decorations. To the north stands the Mahavira Hall, to the east the Goddess of Mercy, to the west the Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva, and to the south the Four Heavenly Kings. It is a comprehensive garden integrating Buddhist culture with tourism. The temple grounds feature eight major scenic spots: “East Temple Scenery,” “Ancient Pines Reaching the Sky,” “Majestic Jiaoding Mountain,” “Secluded Cemetery,” as well as Phoenix Pool, Biyun Cliff, Immortal Bridge, and Zhangfo Cave.

East Temple Scenery: The temple follows a traditional courtyard architectural style, stable and dignified, simple yet elegant. The solemn Buddha statues and lifelike murals reflect the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architecture. A couplet on the site reads: “A righteous beginning was made but never rebuilt; that first construction rivals the Pavilion of the Renowned. An ancient start was initiated but not continued; that original founding is like the Palace of Epang.”

Ancient Pines Soaring: In the center of the courtyard stands a pine tree facing all four entrances, rising straight from the earth and reaching for the clouds. With ancient pines towering above and birds chirping softly, a gentle breeze brings rustling like waves. A poem testifies: “In the quiet south mountain lies an ancient temple, while verdant pines soar high into the sky.” The ancient pine is 16 meters tall and 2.06 meters in diameter.

Majestic Jiaoding Mountain: To the north of the temple lies Jiaoding Mountain, also said to be Lingjiu Mountain, a sacred site where Sakyamuni preached the Buddhist scriptures. From a distance, it looks like a sedan chair, as if the Buddha is seated upon it, coming to spread teachings and enlighten the people.

Secluded Cemetery: To the south of the temple lies the East Temple Cemetery, where generations of abbots have been laid to rest.

Source: Zhangqiu Municipal People's Government Website