Xianshan Lingdong Temple Introduction
Dedicated to the worship of Guandi, the Lingdong Palace is bustling with activity and is enveloped in a faint mist throughout the year. The mist often drifts among the mountains, creating a mystical atmosphere reminiscent of an immortal realm. The architecture of Lingdong Palace is resplendent, adorned with exquisite carvings and vibrant decorations. Xianshan, located at the junction of Shitan and Nanzhuang Townships at an altitude of 967 meters, was originally named Hongmaoguan Mountain. According to legend, there is a spring in the mountain that can cure various ailments, known as Xianshui, which led to the renaming of Hongmaoguan Mountain to Xianshan. Lingdong Palace sits midway up Xianshan, consisting of upper and lower levels; the upper level is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, while the lower level honors the Eastern Emperor and various revered figures from the Three Teachings. Xianshui is located near the Xieling Palace behind Lingdong Palace. A small flight of stairs leads you up from the side of Xieling Palace to a small pavilion where the Xianshui can be accessed. The base of Xianshan can be reached in half an hour by walking from the left side of Xieling Palace. Approximately 1,000 meters above sea level, Xianshan stands between Hongwei Mountain and Bagua Ridge, renowned for its healing spring waters. There are many miraculous legends surrounding the efficacy of Xianshui, and Lingdong Palace atop Xianshan is quite elegant, perpetually shrouded in a light mist. The palace is a temple-style building situated on the mountain, surrounded by clouds and fog year-round, presenting a striking landscape influenced by the earth's energies. Since the discovery of the spring water in the mountain, which is said to cure all diseases, the fame of Lingdong Palace has grown, attracting many pilgrims from various places to form groups for pilgrimage and to take Xianshui home for consumption. The platform in front of Lingdong Palace offers a panoramic view of Xianshan's forest scenery, providing excellent vistas.
