Huixian Temple

Huixian Temple

Huixian Temple is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Huixian Temple

Huixian Temple (Classified as a fifth batch National Cultural Heritage Site)

Era: Jin to Qing Dynasties

Address: Jiangzhang Village, Jiangzhang Town, 25 km east of Wuxiang County

Originally built in the sixth year of the Zhengda era of the Jin Dynasty (1229 AD) (i.e., the second year of the Shaoding era of the Southern Song Dynasty), it has undergone several renovations over the dynasties. The main surviving structure, the Sanqing Hall, dates back to the Jin Dynasty, the Jade Emperor Hall to the Yuan Dynasty, while the rest were constructed during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

The temple faces south and covers an area of 2,263 square meters. It consists of three courtyards along a central axis that includes, in sequence: the Mountain Gate, Guan Yu Hall, Jade Emperor Hall, and Sanqing Hall. Symmetrically distributed on the east and west sides are the Bell and Drum Towers, side rooms, corridors, and side halls.

The Jade Emperor Hall is situated on a 1.1-meter-high stone platform. It features a width of three bays, a depth of four rafters, and a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. Under the eaves, the bracket sets are arranged in a complex pattern, featuring protruding cantilevers and decorative bracket arms. The wooden brackets are intricately crafted. Colorful paintings adorn the beams. In front of the hall stand evenly spaced stone-carved statues.

The Sanqing Hall is built on a 1.2-meter-high stone staircase. It has a width of five bays and a depth of three bays, with a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. The roof is covered with tubular and flat tiles, and it features a front porch corridor. The bracket sets under the eaves are arranged in traditional patterns, with cantilevered brackets and decorative arms. The interior columns are relatively thick, supporting a complex system of beams and purlins. The wooden structure displays fine craftsmanship. The architectural style is simple yet elegant, representing a typical example of ancient religious architecture. Further reading:

· Fifth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units