Meilin Temple in Biyang

Meilin Temple in Biyang

Meilin Temple in Biyang is a cultural tourism attraction.

The original site of Meilin Temple is located at the junction of Guanzhuang Town and Fuzhuang Township in Biyang County. It backs against the eastern ridge of Hutou Mountain and faces the western edge of the ancient city. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests and bamboo groves, with two streams embracing it on either side and clear, rushing waters, the location boasts an excellent terrain and pleasant scenery.

Meilin Temple, originally named Yuantong Temple. The name Yuantong Temple was first recorded in the poem “Yuantong Temple” by He Jingming (a native of Xinyang who served as the Deputy Education Commissioner of Shaanxi during the Ming Dynasty). Based on He Jingming’s life timeline, this poem is believed to have been written between the first and fifth years of the Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty (1506–1510 AD). Meilin Temple is also known as Huilong Temple, a name first found in the poetic stele inscribed by Zhang Xiucui, the educational officer of Biyang County during the 52nd year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty. The name Meilin Temple first appeared in the “Four Poems on Visiting Meilin Temple” by Ni Mingjin, the magistrate of Biyang County, in the fifth year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is now widely known by the name Meilin Temple.