Gusu Islet

Gusu Islet

Gusu Islet

Gusu Islet Located one kilometer from Disu Street in the middle of the Disu River, there is a small islet called “Gusu Islet.” In the past, there was an ancient temple on the islet. In front of the temple grew several ancient pine trees, tall and lush. Inside the temple were several Buddha statues, and a large iron bell hung from one of the pillars. Whenever the sun dipped behind the mountains, the temple keeper would burn incense and candles, strike the iron bell, and the lingering chimes would echo throughout the village—hence the name “Evening Bell at Gusu.” Visitors often rowed wooden boats to the islet to explore the temple. The islet was free of dust and noise, with a tranquil environment like a fairy island. An ancient poet once wrote: “A small islet formed by heaven and earth, / Surrounded by winding waters, serene and fair. / As the sun sets behind the hills, the evening bell rings, / Drawing the gaze of all the villagers nearby.” After liberation, the temple was demolished and the land was cultivated. In 1993, Taiwanese compatriot Qin Dingying returned to his hometown on a family visit. Filled with nostalgia and a strong local accent, he spoke fondly of the scenery of his hometown. He thus proposed “cooperation across the strait to jointly support this initiative” to rebuild the temple on Gusu Islet and the “Rest Pavilion,” originally located at the head of Sima Bridge. A swimming pool was also newly constructed. With funding from Taiwanese compatriot Qin Dingying and other donors, support from local Disu township-level institutions, as well as generous contributions from members of the public, teachers, and students, as stated in the “Preface to the Reconstruction of the Rest Pavilion”: “The Eight Immortals Rock, Sima Bridge, and the Anfu Temple on Gusu Islet shine in mutual splendor, complemented by the picturesque mountains and clear waters, forming a scenic belt that offers a grand sight. The poetic charm and picturesque beauty are all here, sure to captivate all who come.”