Anshan Temple

　　   Anshan Temple is situated 15 kilometers southeast of Sishui County, on the right side of Provincial Highway S244, surrounded by the peaks of Anshan, Mashan, and Hongdingshan. The temple is built against a mountain and beside a stream, offering a serene environment that has long made it a renowned scenic spot for tourism and summer retreats.

　　   Originally constructed during the Zhenguan era of the Tang Dynasty, the temple was first known as Anshan Yongquan Temple, later abbreviated to Anshan Temple. It underwent three major renovations during the Ming and Qing dynasties, resulting in over 20 structures including a main hall and meditation rooms, as well as six historical stone steles.

　　   Within the temple grounds stand two ginkgo trees planted during the Tang Dynasty, each over 20 meters tall with deep roots and lush foliage, their canopies spreading like umbrellas. One of the trees is so large that it takes six or seven people to encircle its trunk, creating a truly majestic sight. To the east of the temple lies a spring known as Yongzhu Spring, which never dries up even in prolonged droughts. Water continuously bubbles up from the bottom, resembling strings of pearls, an awe-inspiring spectacle.

　　   On the cliffs to the east of the temple, on the sunny side of Anshan Mountain, there are five cave niches aligned in a row. Inside these caves are statues of the Eighteen Arhats, collectively called the Arhat Caves. The largest cave is about 4 meters high, 5 meters wide, and over 20 meters deep, adding a touch of mystery to Anshan Temple. About one kilometer south of the temple lies a vast peach orchard covering tens of thousands of acres. In spring, when the peach blossoms are in full bloom, the area is thronged with visitors, forming a stunning highlight around the temple. Additionally, an antique-style mineral water plant invested at a cost of over one million yuan integrates sightseeing, touring, and production functions. The crystal-clear artificial lake in front of the temple also enhances the site’s charm. In early spring, the red peach blossoms, green willows, blooming flowers, chirping birds, and murmuring streams make the “Spring Beauty of Anshan” a celebrated scenic view in the county. In summer, the dense shade and cool breezes attract many visitors seeking respite from the heat. Autumn brings clear skies, the calls of wild geese, and bountiful fruit on the trees, evoking a pastoral idyll. Deep winter enchants with bubbling springs, rising steam, snow-covered landscapes, and an atmosphere that captivates all who visit.