Dongtai Taishan Temple

　　A national AA-level tourist attraction, located within the Xixi Scenic Area of Dongtai City, also known as Huguo Chan Temple. Adjacent to the Haichunxuan Pagoda, it is embraced by lofty green mountains and crystal-clear waters. The ancient architectural complex shines with golden splendor and is renowned as the foremost among the Thirteen Forests (monastic complexes). Built during the Jiading era of the Southern Song Dynasty (1208–1224), it boasts a history of nearly 800 years. The temple complex includes structures such as the Vajra Hall, Jade Buddha Pavilion, Mahavira Hall, Dongyue Hall, Bixia Palace, Hall of the Four Famous Mountains, Fan Yun Hall, Bell and Drum Towers, and Guanyin Hall. The layout of each hall and courtyard is rigorous, symmetrical, harmonious, solemn, and aesthetically pleasing. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty bestowed the name “Wuyu Hall” upon it, Empress Dowager Cixi inscribed the phrase “Prosperity Year After Year,” and the calligraphic poetry collection of Song Dynasty statesman Fan Zhongyan’s “Visiting Bixia Palace” is preserved here. Calligraphy works such as the bold writings of Liu Yong—renowned for his sharp tongue and eloquence—are also housed within. Many historical artifacts and handwritten works by notable figures have become treasured relics of the temple. The temple also preserves numerous cultural relics and historic sites, including Han Dynasty ancient blades, Tang Dynasty halberds, ancient stone lions, and stone carvings from ancient mountain gate streets. Recognized by the Buddhist Association of China as a famous temple in Jiangsu Province, it is also one of the key protected temples in the province.