Nanhui Dongyue Temple

Nanhui Dongyue Temple

Nanhui Dongyue Temple is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

The original construction date is unknown. Under the eaves of the main hall, the dougong brackets bear the inscriptions “大明嘉靖四十一年（1562）重修” (“Reconstructed in the 41st year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty [1562]”) and “大清康熙三十八年（1799）重修” (“Reconstructed in the 38th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty [1799]”). The current structure largely preserves architectural features from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The side halls are arranged along the central axis in sequence, including the offering hall, main hall, and rear hall. The beams and columns are robust, with distinct regional characteristics. On both sides are side rooms that once served as monks’ quarters.

The offering hall is three bays wide and two bays deep, with a single-eave hanging gable roof. The roof is covered with gray tubular and flat tiles. The dougong brackets under the eaves are arranged in a simple single-layered style. The front eaves extend outwards, supported by bracket sets that display fine craftsmanship, adding to the grandeur of the building. The beam frame is exquisitely structured, using large wooden components that demonstrate sophisticated construction techniques. The interior space is spacious and bright, with dignified and elegant proportions. The side beams and purlins are substantial, highlighting the grand and solemn architectural style.

Address: Nanhuan Village, Longhua Town, 10 kilometers east of Yicheng County

Further reading:

· Sixth batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units