Lion's Head Mountain Chuanhua Temple Introduction
Chuanhua Hall was built in 1897 and is located at the foothills of Lion's Head Mountain. Among the temples on Lion's Head Mountain, Chuanhua Hall is the largest and most magnificent. The hall was constructed using natural caves, with portions of the temple embedded in the caves. The exterior of Chuanhua Hall is luxurious, while the interior features stone carvings, wooden carvings, and colorful decorations that are simple yet graceful, showcasing a rich variety of traditional artworks. A pair of dragon columns at the corridor eaves are hand-carved, with the right dragon holding a pearl in its mouth, while the left dragon does not. It is said that they were carved by different craftsmen, with each column and dragon featuring round, ancient shapes and flowing, soft lines. The octagonal stone windows with透雕 on the front eaves walls of the main hall depict Qilin, characterized by simple lines and robust forms, embodying a rustic beauty. The octagonal cast iron windows of the annexe are elegantly styled; the ground-level coiled dragon on the stone path is lifelike, making these rare pieces worth careful viewing. The Ziyang Gate at the entrance of Lion's Head Mountain is the most important historical site on the mountain, serving as the main way for visitors to enter. It is an independent gatehouse designed in a corridor style, with a heavy eaved roof that exudes grandeur, guarded by two massive stone lions. The structure is primarily made of a mix of bricks, tiles, earth, and stone, with wooden brackets emphasized in the design. The craftsmen divided the brick and stone facade into several sections, each referred to as "a wall," with names listed from bottom to top as "Counter Base," "Skirt Wall," "Waist Wall," "Body Wall," "Top Wall," and "Water Wheel Wall." The "Counter Base" is located at the bottom, carved to resemble a short countertop with floral patterns skillfully arranged; the "Skirt Wall" features line carvings of floral and animal motifs; the "Waist Wall" showcases relief sculptures of flowers and grass; the most exquisite carvings are found in the left and right "Body Walls," characterized by simple forms and soft lines. From Chuanhua Hall, one can gaze into the distance where the rolling mountains overlap, forming a majestic landscape with verdant peaks. This place also offers accommodation for visitors.
