Dongshan Zen Temple Introduction
During World War II, the Japanese military transformed Dagang Mountain in Kaohsiung into a military fortress, and nearby Longhu Temple was not spared. Master Yuanrong, who practiced here, subsequently moved to Baihe Daxian Temple. Soon after, he was invited to serve as the abbot of Dongshan Zen Temple in Pingtung City. With the establishment of clear regulations and the joint efforts of his disciple Tianji, Master Yuanrong developed the Zen temple into its present form. Dongshan Zen Temple was originally the "Pingtung Buddhist Linji Sect Promotion Center" during the Japanese occupation, founded in 1924, with the first abbot being the Japanese monk Tokai Yisheng. This strong connection to Japanese Buddhism is evident in the architectural style of the temple. Additionally, it is known as the most famous "Nuns’ Monastery" in Pingtung City, having nurtured many outstanding female Buddhist talents over the years. The temple grounds are expansive and include the Main Hall, Anle Tower, Guihun Hall, a library, and a worship pavilion, as well as the Dongshan Kindergarten. The environment is tranquil, and the garden landscape is unique, earning the temple the reputation as the first garden temple in KunNan. Important ceremonies are regularly held, with the Huayan Festival in the third lunar month lasting the longest.
