Zhaohua City God Temple

　　The City God originated from ancient worship of Shui (Huang, water spirits) and Yong (Cheng, city guardians), being one of the Eight Deities in the "Rites of Zhou." "Cheng" originally referred to high walls built from dug earth, and "Huang" originally referred to moats without water. "City God" stems from ancient city walls and moats, and was seen by people as a deity who protected citizens and ensured peace in the region. They believed that gods existed for all things closely related to people’s life and production safety, hence the city and its walls were deified as protectors of the city. Taoism incorporated it into its own pantheon, calling it a god who eliminates evil, defends the nation, and governs the souls of the deceased in the underworld. The City God is a nature deity specifically managing the souls of the underworld. In ancient times, the City God served as the protector of the city, so wherever there was a walled city, a City God Temple would be built.

　　The City God Temple in Zhaohua Ancient Town was first built during the Tang Dynasty. Throughout history, it was destroyed multiple times due to warfare or neglect, and was rebuilt just as often. It was last destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. The current City God Temple is a faithful reconstruction. The reconstructed temple includes two halls, two side rooms, and a traditional quadrangle courtyard. At the center of the front hall stands a statue of the Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva, flanked on either side by the Left and Right Judges. Next are the “Day Patrol God” and “Night Inspection God.” The walls are adorned with fourteen exquisite murals depicting stories of filial piety and good deeds, educating visitors to respect elders and engage in virtuous actions. The rear section houses the “City God Hall,” the main shrine of the City God. In the center sits the statue of the City God, with statues of the Goddess of Mercy (protector of peace) and the God of Wealth (protector of prosperity) on either side. This multi-deity worship reflects people’s desire for various divine figures to fulfill their psychological needs and offer comfort. Two tall ancient cypress trees within the temple grounds are said to have been planted by Zhang Fei, hence nicknamed “Zhang Fei Cypresses.” Many such ancient cypresses remain along the old post road, particularly the well-known cluster in the “Green Corridor.” Framed by these ancient trees, the City God Temple appears even more ancient, solemn, and mysterious.