Heshun Tianchi Temple

Heshun Tianchi Temple

Heshun Tianchi Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Tianchi Temple

Tianchi Temple is located four kilometers west of Qianyao Di Village in Weima Township. The site is described as having “steep, rugged rocks, winding serene paths, a highland basin resembling a heavenly pool,” from which the temple derives its name. Though modest in scale, the temple complex is quite majestic. Its founding date is unknown, but the earliest Ming Dynasty renovation stele dates back to the tenth year of the Jiajing era (1531). Subsequent renovations were carried out in the fifteenth year of the Chongzhen era, the twenty-ninth year of the Kangxi era, the sixth year of the Xianfeng era, the twelfth year of the Tongzhi era, and the twenty-fifth year of the Republic of China. The current structures largely retain the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty. Originally a Buddhist temple, it was later converted to enshrine Sakyamuni, Confucius, and Laozi, and the main hall was renamed the “Three Teachings Hall.” The entire temple complex forms a traditional quadrangle covering an area of 680 square meters. The main hall stands 8.2 meters tall, with a width of 10 meters, a depth of 9 meters, and eaves extending 1.5 meters. It features a single-eave hip-and-gable roof covered with tubular and flat tiles. The bracket sets under the eaves are sturdy, using a single-tiered bracketing system with double bows. Four exposed columns face south; the central bay is fitted with lattice doors, while the side bays have low sill walls below and lattice windows above. The roof structure is supported by three beams, with beams and brackets adorned with colorful paintings of dragons and phoenixes. Inside the hall, two rear columns support the altar platform, which is built behind them. All clay sculptures have been destroyed, but some murals remain, depicting themes related to the teachings of the Three Teachings: Laozi, with white hair and a ruddy complexion, a kind expression, holding a duster, wearing a straw hat backwards, riding a blue ox, accompanied by a young attendant; Confucius, with a tall hat and long beard, a solemn expression, holding bamboo slips, depicted vividly. The murals feature smooth, simple, and realistic lines, reflecting the traditional northern folk painting style of the Ming and Qing periods.