Guajia Temple

　　 Guajia Temple is located at No. 18, Guajia Temple East Hutong. Originally known as Qingguo Temple, it is said that Guajia Temple was built in the late Sui and early Tang dynasties, boasting a history of over 1,300 years.

　　 According to the "Tianjin County Annals," the "Inscription on the Reconstruction of Guajia Temple" from the 28th year of the Wanli era in the Ming Dynasty (1600) states: “Three li south of Dazhigu lies an ancient temple called Qingguo Temple, later renamed Guajia Temple. Its origins go far back, not recorded in maps or texts, but according to tales passed down by elders: Back when the Tang Dynasty triumphed in its campaign against Goguryeo, troops were stationed at this temple, which led to its renaming. Over time, it fell into disrepair, though its ruins remain.” In its heyday, Guajia Temple was “majestic in structure, resplendent in religious imagery, attracting worshippers from near and far,” and enjoyed thriving incense offerings. Historically, Guajia Temple was built three times: once during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty, again in the late Qing Dynasty, and a third time in 1944 when the mountain gate was renovated. By the time the People’s Republic of China was founded, the temple had largely collapsed.

　　 The surviving front and rear halls were built in the late Qing Dynasty, with a total construction area of 300 square meters. They feature brick-and-wood structures and gabled roofs with single eaves. The front hall has five purlins and twelve columns, while the rear hall has ten purlins and eighteen columns, with a dragon head placed atop the roof ridge. The temple complex consists of single-story buildings, grand and spectacular, laid out in a well-coordinated, harmonious design with bright, simple colors—retaining an ancient yet elegant style and essentially preserving its original appearance. The current temple was reconstructed and expanded with funding from the Hexi District People’s Government. Construction began in May 1994 and was completed in July 1997. Renowned figures such as Zhao Puchu, President of the Buddhist Association of China, and Tian Yunzhang inscribed plaques and inscriptions for Guajia Temple.