Temple of Thunder Ancestor

　　Introduction       The Temple of Thunder Ancestor is situated on Yingbang Mountain, five li southwest of Leizhou City. Nestled against the mountain and beside the water, it boasts beautiful scenery and is known as “The Majestic Lingang,” one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Leiyang. Originally built in the 16th year of the Zhenguan era of the Tang Dynasty (642 AD), it is a temple commemorating Chen Wenyu, the first prefect of Leizhou during the Tang Dynasty and revered as the Thunder Ancestor. It is a national key cultural relics protection unit.

　　    Chen Wenyu was a local native. During the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty, the region was home to many ethnic minorities, making governance difficult. Thus, Chen Wenyu was appointed as the prefect. During his tenure, he implemented strict yet fair administration, combining governance with education, bringing peace and prosperity to the people. He also greatly reinforced the city’s fortifications, even donating his own salary when public funds fell short. To honor him, the local people built a temple in his memory on Yingbang Mountain, five li southwest of the city. Later, Chen Wenyu’s virtues merged with the local legend of the “Thunder God,” and his temple became known as the “Temple of Thunder Ancestor.”

　　    The temple is built against the mountain and faces the plain, presenting a majestic sight. It has three courtyards and consists of structures such as the mountain gate, main hall, side halls, rear hall, east and west wing rooms, bell and drum towers, and stele corridors, all arranged along a central axis. The couplet on the mountain gate reads: “Thunder split open the southern sky, the ancestor stands unique; his fame is honored across the northern seas.” Its wording appears to refer to one but hints at two—an intriguing touch. The second courtyard forms the main body of the temple, comprising the main hall along with the east and west side halls. The entire architectural layout takes the shape of a “convex” character, enshrining Chen Wenyu (center), General Li (Han Dynasty’s Li Guang, on the left), and the Ying Mountain Stone Deity (right), commonly referred to as the “Three Halls of the Thunder Temple.” The front eaves of the main hall extend unusually wide, featuring a unique architectural style rich in local character. The screens in front of the east and west side halls are exquisitely carved and delicately designed. The rear hall covers an area of over 10,000 square meters, making it one of the largest ancestral temples in the Lingnan region.

　　    The Temple of Thunder Ancestor has a long history and has inspired countless poems and writings. Kou Zhun wrote poems about it, Su Dongpo composed essays, Ding Wei penned records, and Li Gang inscribed steles. Today, over 30 historical stone inscriptions remain in the temple.     Transportation       Buses to Leizhou depart from Chikan Bus Station in Zhanjiang (near the overpass), costing 10 yuan per person. There are also chartered vans for 20 yuan per person, departing once four passengers are ready. Be sure to look for vehicles marked “trusted car,” as others may take longer routes. If traveling with 3–4 people, taking a taxi is also a good option.  Admission/Ticket Hours       Admission is 20 yuan.

　　 Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province