Wangye Temple

　　Wangye Temple is situated on the banks of the FuXi River in the downtown area. Backed by Longfeng Mountain, it is a uniquely styled mid-Qing Dynasty building. The layout follows traditional ancient architectural methods, with the stage, open well, and main hall arranged sequentially along the central axis.

　　According to the “Fushun County Annals” from the Tongzhi era, both Wangye Temple and the Jiazi Mouth below it were listed as one of the scenic highlights of Ziliujing. In the early 20th century, the temple was renovated under the direction of prominent salt merchants from the Zigong salt fields, Wang Yuyan and Li Chunlin. It served as a place for local merchants to worship the Water God, enjoy the scenery, watch operas, sip tea, and celebrate the Lantern Festival.

　　　Nestled against the mountain and overlooking the water, Wangye Temple boasts a commanding location and is both an architectural gem and a scenic attraction. The well-preserved stage in the temple is one of the rare surviving Qing Dynasty Sichuan opera stages in Sichuan. Leaning on the railing, visitors can gaze at the bizarre rocks jutting out of the river, known as the "Stone Dragon Crossing the River." On the opposite bank, trees shelter the Peach Blossom Nunnery, which peeks through the foliage, while an ancient stone-paved path winds along the shore. A glazed pavilion and a spirit way stele stand on either side of the path. The cliff is inscribed with three large characters reading “Huan Yu Chi” (Fish-Calling Pond), said to be in the handwriting of Su Dongpo. On the eastern rock wall of the temple, four characters “Huan Wo He Shan” (Return My Rivers and Mountains), handwritten by Feng Yuxiang, further enhance the temple’s charm. An old verse reads: “The gorge is born perilous and wondrous,” and “Wangye Temple is a fine place for poetry.” Today, Wangye Temple is a renowned riverside teahouse in downtown Zigong. During the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, the temple is adorned with colorful lanterns on poles, its archways hung with red decorations, illuminated brilliantly, bustling with visitors.

　　Wangye Temple is a fine example of traditional architecture, covering an area of 1,000 square meters. The exact year of its construction is unknown, but it was built no later than the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty. In the 32nd year of the Guangxu era (1906), a new stage was added. The temple faces southwest and is situated northeast, with a total floor area of 900 square meters. The stage is built with post-and-lintel wooden structures, featuring a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. It stands 4.1 meters tall, spans 8.9 meters wide, and extends 8.85 meters deep, with the base 2.8 meters above the ground. The stage employs post-and-lintel wooden structure with a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. At each end of the main ridge are chi dragons, while a string of fire dragon pearls sits in the center, bursting with vivid colors. Wangye Temple is scientifically built, uniquely laid out, compact in structure, and exquisitely small; its decoration is elaborate, and carvings are fine, featuring painted beams and carved rafters. Most decorative sculptures depict theatrical scenes. It holds significant historical value for studying Sichuan opera of the time, as well as social customs and local culture.

　　In the late 1920s, part of Wangye Temple was demolished during the construction of the Jing-Deng Highway. Later, the expansion of Binjiang Road led to the removal of the main hall and side halls, leaving only the stage and some corridors. In 1984, the Sichuan Provincial Department of Culture and the Zigong Municipal People's Government allocated funds for renovation. In 1985, it became part of the Zigong Salt Industry History Museum, and in 1991, it was designated as a provincial-level cultural relics protection unit by the Sichuan Provincial People's Government.

　　The existing stage of Wangye Temple was primarily used for Sichuan opera performances. Its remarkable state of preservation is now rare among surviving ancient buildings in Sichuan. The stage opening features three tiers — upper, middle, and lower — adorned with wood carvings depicting landscapes, exotic flowers, historical figures, opera scenes, antiques, and coins, forming over a hundred exquisite images that hold high artistic and ornamental value.

　　Due to its exceptional geographical location and environment, Wangye Temple has in recent years become an important spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy tea. The upper floor of the temple also hosts a permanent exhibition titled “The Story of Wangye Temple” for visitors to explore.