Huguo Shangqing Temple

Huguo Shangqing Temple

Huguo Shangqing Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Huguo Shangqing Temple is located on the earthen cliff south of Nanbao in Xiguan Village, Chengguan Town, Xinjiang County. It is a key cultural relic protection unit of the county. Initially built in the 34th year of the Wanli reign during the Ming Dynasty (1606) by imperial decree and renovated during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty. Legend has it that it originated from the Buddhist sect of Mount Wutai, venerating the Bodhisattva Manjushri, attracting many scholars and hosting Buddhist ceremonies. The original temple complex covered a vast area, spanning nearly 25 acres of temple grounds and an additional 30 acres of farmland. The temple complex extends from south to north along ascending steps. In front of the mountain gate stands a screen wall. It includes both southern and northern Buddha halls, with bell and drum towers flanking the southern hall, as well as east and west wing rooms—featuring a statue of Guan Yu in the east and Tudigong (the Earth God) in the west. Behind the west wing rooms lies a side courtyard housing a reclining statue of a ascetic monk. The northwest corner contains the abbot’s quarters, while the northeast corner houses the dining hall. The northern hall includes a second floor where the Goddess of Mercy of the South Sea is enshrined, while the first floor features statues of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Eighteen Arhats. The southern hall houses a standing statue of the Bodhisattva Manjushri. The temple was grandly constructed with a rigorous layout. Originally, the temple hosted annual Buddhist gatherings, especially on the third day of the third lunar month, when the halls were opened widely and thronged with devout worshippers. In the evenings, lanterns were released onto the Fen River, creating a sparkling and lively scene.

In 1958, most of the temple was demolished during the construction of the Houxi Railway. In 1966, it suffered further destruction during the Cultural Revolution, with all statues ruined. Monk Shi Renxi passed away in 1968, bringing an end to incense offerings and leaving the halls covered in dust. Today, only the rear courtyard's northern and southern halls, east and west wing rooms, and the bell tower remain. The current site covers an area of 1,665 square meters. The northern hall is five bays wide and three bays deep, with two stories and a hanging hip roof. It has suffered severe damage due to years of neglect.