Yishui Lingquan Temple

Yishui Lingquan Temple

Yishui Lingquan Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Commonly known as Shangyuan Temple, Lingquan Temple is located 20 kilometers west of Yishui County and can be reached by bus in half an hour along Longquan Road, making it easily accessible and geographically favorable. Legend has it that in the ninth year of the Zhenguan era during the Tang Dynasty, a high monk named Changhong came to this area to promote Buddhism. Upon seeing the lush pines and cypresses and the gushing mountain springs forming clear streams, he decided to build a temple and carve Buddha statues here to widely spread Buddhist teachings, turning it into a sacred site for local worship. Today, five ancient ginkgo trees still stand around the temple grounds, said to have been planted by Changhong. These trees are over 1,300 years old, more than 30 meters tall, and remain lush and fruitful. The trees encircle the Lingquan spring, whose waters never dry up throughout the year. Drinking from the spring is believed to promote longevity. The spring is also connected to a storage pool, where the water is as smooth as a mirror. The Lingquan Temple scenic area seamlessly blends natural and cultural landscapes. Major attractions include the Lingquan Spring, ancient ginkgo trees planted in the Tang Dynasty, the Lion Rock ancient cypresses, Lion’s Eye, Eagle Gate Pagoda Stone, Monks’ Forest, Guest-Greeting Pine, Elder Subdues Tiger Rock, Flying Rock, Immortal Rock, South Heaven Gate, Guanyin Cave, Hanxiang Cave, Lingyin Cave, Immortal Mansion, Buddha Pavilion, and Bixia Shrine. The entire scenic area is surrounded by mountains on three sides, offering breathtaking views. From the mountaintop, visitors can take in the panoramic scenery of Basher Reservoir. Travelers may also take a boat from the reservoir dam northward to reach the foot of the mountain, which is very convenient. It is an excellent destination for leisure and recreation.