Yuan Guang Temple Introduction
The overall planning of Yuang Guang Zen Temple follows the traditional regulations of a monastic complex. Surrounded by elegant green tiles and white walls, the solemn and magnificent northern palace-style architecture, along with the exquisite garden design, creates a stunning scenery that resembles a celestial paradise. A statue of a spotted deer perched on the Dharma wheel is sculpted above the side entrance, symbolizing the Buddha's initial teaching of the Four Noble Truths to the five monks at Deer Park, reflecting the abbot's aspiration to revitalize monastic education. Inside the main gate is the Maitreya Hall, which enshrines the smiling Maitreya based on the image of the Budai monk and the Bodhisattva Weituo, who vows to protect the Dharma. On either side are the Four Heavenly Kings, carved in lifelike detail. The joyfully laughing Maitreya brings happiness to every visitor, while the Weituo Bodhisattva, wielding a treasured sword, exudes an awe-inspiring presence that intimidates demonic forces. Upon entering through the main gate, there is a spacious square, flanked by gardens filled with flowers and greenery. Moving forward, one can ascend the main hall via stone steps, which are divided to the left and right, with a sculpture of nine dragons spiraling at the center, above which stands the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, holding a pure vase to guide arriving beings. The Mahavira Hall stands at the center of the entire temple complex, serving as a spiritual fortress for the devotees. Inside the hall are enshrined the Three Holy Ones of the Avatamsaka Sutra—Shakyamuni Buddha, Manjushri, and Samantabhadra—with the revered disciples Kasyapa and Ananda on either side. Beneath the main hall is the Dharma lecture hall, usually used for women's morning and evening prayers, and on holidays, it serves as a place for lay practitioners. The back hall, the merit hall, enshrines the Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha and the revered monk Mujianlian, where devotees can present ancestral tablets. Additionally, there are facilities such as a dining hall, a five contemplations hall, classrooms, and dormitories, accommodating over a hundred people. (Source: Yuang Guang Zen Temple)
