Yuan Guang Zen Temple Introduction
Yuan Guang Zen Temple's overall planning follows the traditional jungle regulation. Surrounded by elegant green tiles and white walls, the solemn and magnificent northern palace-style architecture, along with the exquisite garden design, creates a breathtaking scene, resembling a paradise on Earth. On the side gate, there's a sculpture of a spotted deer resting on the Dharma wheel, symbolizing the moment when the Buddha first turned the Four Noble Truths in Deer Park, which reflects the abbot's aspiration to revitalize monastic education. Inside the mountain gate is the Maitreya Hall, which enshrines the joyful Maitreya Buddha, represented in the shape of the cloth sack monk, and the Bodhisattva Wei Tuo, who pledges to protect the Dharma. On both sides are the Four Heavenly Kings, intricately carved and lifelike. The laughing Maitreya brings joy to everyone who approaches, while the fearless Wei Tuo holds a treasured sword, radiating a majestic aura that intimidates demonic forces. Entering through the mountain gate, one arrives at the spacious square, flanked by gardens filled with flowers and greenery. Moving further, one can ascend the stone steps to the Main Hall, where the staircase splits to the left and right, with a sculpture of nine dragons spiraling above. Guanyin Bodhisattva stands atop the nine dragons, holding a pure vase, welcoming all beings. The Hall of Great Hero stands at the center of the entire temple complex, serving as a spiritual fortress for the Buddha's disciples. Inside the hall, the Three Holy Ones of Huayan are enshrined—Shakyamuni Buddha, Manjushri, and Samantabhadra, with venerable Kasyapa and Ananda on either side. Beneath the hall is the Dharma Hall, usually used for women's morning and evening prayers and serving as a place for lay practitioners to cultivate on holidays. The rear hall, the Merit Hall, enshrines Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and Buddha Muguan, where devotees can place ancestral tablets. Additional facilities include the dining hall, the Five Contemplations Hall, classrooms, and living quarters, capable of accommodating over a hundred people. (Source: Yuan Guang Zen Temple)
