Ancient Architectural Complex of Luoyang Bay

Ancient Architectural Complex of Luoyang Bay

The Ancient Architectural Complex of Luoyang Bay is a cultural heritage site protected at the provincial level in Hunan Province.

◆ The renowned Ancient Architectural Complex of Luoyang Bay is located in Ceshipu Town, north of Shuangfeng County. Luoyang Bay was the elegant name used by people in the Ming Dynasty to refer to Ceshipu Town. Built during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty (1403–1423 AD), this ancient complex consists of four major structures: the Guan Sheng Hall, the Guanyin Pavilion, the Dragon King Pavilion, and the Wenchang Pavilion. All four face the water and back against the mountains, forming a mutually reinforcing, unified whole. The entire architectural complex features red railings and painted beams, with soaring eaves that exude grandeur and majesty. In the middle of the river lies a massive rock on which a stone pagoda stands tall and imposing, complementing the four main buildings. The pagoda bears a couplet that reads: “In learning, we aspire to reach the shore of truth; may all worldly ashes drift eastward with the river.”

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The Guanyin Pavilion stands beside the river atop a huge rock. A winding stone path along the water’s edge leads up to it. Ancient poets described it as: “The stairway spirals up into the sky, while the upper floors rise directly into the blue.” Over the centuries, many literati and poets visited, admired the scenery, and composed poems. “The inscribed tablets within the pavilion are all renowned, while the railings outside curve gracefully in several directions.” Among them, Wang Kaijin wrote a five-character quatrain: “The stone path is not without support, hanging thinly in the air; the eaves cast shadows on clear water, ascending the hall one loses track of the reefs. The stream points toward new sandbanks, clouds fly from ancient trees; the temple bell echoes through dawn and night, its serene chime leading one to quiet devotion.” The stone path seems to float above the river, vermilion eaves reflect on the water, new sandbanks emerge from the islet, ancient trees drift among the clouds, and the bell tolls day and night — a scene that refreshes the spirit and makes visitors linger. No wonder ancients praised the place as: “The spiritual rain of sacred mountains descends from the heavens, while the pearl of the South Sea returns in the night.”

Adjacent to the Guanyin Pavilion is the Dragon King Pavilion. In front of it stands an ancient peak called Xian Peak, within which lies a rock measuring 1 meter in height, 0.8 meters in width, and 1.6 meters in length. On the front side is carved a couplet: “The flat peak carries tales of ancient Xian; the riverside pavilion complements the majestic Guanyin.” To the right of the Dragon King Hall is the “Rest Pavilion,” specially provided for visitors to take a break. Further back served as lodging for wandering guests. It bears another couplet: “Are you not a man in straitened circumstances? Having come from afar over a thousand miles, compelled by circumstance you stay here. This is indeed an act of benevolence; we prepare but a humble shelter for the night, seeking no comfort.”

To the left of the Dragon King Hall stands the Wenchang Pavilion, and further left is the Shuikou Temple. Above its entrance is a couplet that reads: “A single ripple on the water reflects the Ceshipu River; several spans of temple magnificence adorn Xuafeng.”

The Guan Sheng Hall faces the Guanyin Pavilion across a small courtyard. It is built into the rocky hillside by the river, with foundations carved out of the mountain — six meters high and covering an area of over fifty square meters. Inside the hall stand four large stone pillars, and at the front is a statue of Guan Sheng Di Jun (the God of War), standing four meters tall with a red face and black beard, rendered in strikingly lifelike detail. Beneath the statue is a shrine cabinet, on the small pillars of which is carved a couplet: “To have Wenchang as neighbor is a blessing, clasping hands we discuss the great principles of the Spring and Autumn Annals; to speak Dharma with the bodhisattva, our hearts united in awakening all beings of the world.” In front of the hall is a clear spring well, which never dries up year-round. Cool in summer and warm in winter, its water is sweet and refreshing.

Temporary corridors and railings have been erected around the ancient architectural complex for visitors to enjoy the view. During the dry season when the waters are clear, the rooftops and pagoda spires are reflected in the river. To the east is Yaotou Mountain, to the north is Lingzi Mountain, and to the south is Hulu Mountain, all set off against one another. Sunlight glimmers on the water, ripples dance on the Ceshipu River, boats come and go, and fishermen’s songs echo back and forth, creating a vivid and beautiful scene. Though parts of the halls and pavilions have now been dismantled, their former appearance can still be clearly discerned.

Further Reading:

· Ninth Batch of Provincial Cultural Heritage Sites Protected by Hunan Province