Xuantong Temple

Xuantong Temple

Xuantong Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Xuantong Temple is located in Lichun Village, Yuanshi County, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, about 8 kilometers from the county seat. It sits on a bend along the southern bank of the Huai River, near the junction of Zanhuang, Gaoyi, and Yuanshi counties. This site is the ruin of a well-known ancient Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Existing Qing Dynasty steles record that monks led renovation and reconstruction efforts during the reigns of Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong.

In 2000, the venerable Master Shang Kuan-Xia Cheng was invited to reside at Xuantong Temple. Within just four months, he oversaw the construction of the Zhengjue Recitation Hall, storage rooms, monastic quarters, and other auxiliary facilities, establishing the temple as a Pure Land Buddhist practice site. Deeply compassionate toward all beings and responding to the wishes of lay devotees, the master pledged to expand Xuantong Temple. He rebuilt the Ten Thousand Buddhas Welcoming Hall and enshrined ten thousand Buddha statues. He created an extensive specialized Pure Land practice center, widely cultivating good karma and connections. His aim was to help sentient beings transcend the impure world, attain rebirth in the Pure Land, and quickly achieve enlightenment. By building a bridge and providing means for worldly beings to reach the Western Paradise, he facilitated their journey to spiritual liberation.

For over a decade, Master Shang Kuan-Xia Cheng led by example with strict monastic discipline. Tirelessly embodying compassion and generosity, he practiced what he preached and emphasized both understanding and practice. He upheld the tradition of lecturing on the sutras and leading chanting and meditation practices on the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month. The master’s verified virtuous deeds and profound teachings were widely admired and supported by lay followers and devotees, making the ancient Xuantong Temple a highly respected Pure Land temple near Shijiazhuang.

Transportation Guide

Location: Lichun Village, Yuanshi County, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province

Transit: Take a bus from Yuanshi County bound for Dongzhang Township, then walk southward to Lichun Village upon arrival.