Daxi Zhaiming Temple

　　Zhaiming Temple is situated beside Provincial Highway 3 between Daxi and Longtan. Built during the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty, it is the oldest Zen temple in Daxi Town and has been designated as a third-grade historical site. The temple complex covers an area of approximately 2–3 hectares, facing the streets of Daxi across the Dahan River. With its serene environment, shaded by bamboo groves and lush woods along the pathways, it offers beautiful views from both near and far.

　　The temple houses the only replica in Taiwan of the Song Dynasty’s Qisha Canon, a woodblock-printed edition completed over 91 years through the dedication of three generations of nuns who selflessly begged for alms after severing their arms. This priceless collection was painstakingly assembled during the Song and Yuan dynasties.

　　Zhaiming Temple presents the simple style of a traditional rural courtyard home, reflecting the unadorned nature of a Zen monastery. The grounds are covered with lush green grass and blooming flowers, creating a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. In 1929, the “Cui Ling Pagoda” was added behind the temple. As the temple and pagoda were constructed in different periods, the former retains traditional Chinese architectural styles, while the latter is a modern concrete structure—showcasing the evolution of architectural design across eras.

　　Getting There: Take a Taoyuan Bus bound for Longtan from Zhonghua Road in Taoyuan City, and get off at the Zhaiming Temple stop. The temple’s archway will be right in front of you. Walk about 800 meters along Zhaiming Street to reach the temple.