Sanxia Qingshui Temple Introduction
Situated near Sanxia Old Street, the Qingshui Temple is renowned for its vibrant incense offerings, dedicated to the Qingshui Master. It was established in the 34th year of the Qianlong reign (1769). Due to deterioration over the years, in the 36th year of the Republic of China, Professor Li Meishu was appointed as the artistic designer and engineering supervisor for its reconstruction. The temple boasts numerous exquisite stone and wood carvings, showcasing a blend of styles from various artisans and contemporary artists, reflecting the remarkable craftsmanship and aesthetics of that time, earning it the titles of "Hall of Folk Art" and "Hall of Eastern Art." Visiting this artistic hall, the Qingshui Temple is constructed in the traditional "five gates and three halls" style. Starting from the stone steps of the front hall, the floors, walls, and columns are all stone, while the five doors of the main hall are made of bronze. Inside the temple, the dragon columns, floral and bird columns, and wood carvings are intricately crafted. The temple's foundation is stone, topped with wood. Looking up, one can see beautifully carved wooden works everywhere. The murals and wood carvings depict stories derived from "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," "Journey to the West," "Investiture of the Gods," and "Twenty-four Filial Exemplars," all created by contemporary masters. The intricate wood carving above the main hall (central hall) is a must-see, along with the透雕 stone columns and coffered ceiling. Upon entering the Sanxia Qingshui Temple, visitors are immediately captivated by the magnificent hall filled with splendid religious art. Among the many beautiful stone carvings, the most striking are the twenty stone columns of the main hall, particularly the three pairs of透雕 stone columns at the entrance, known as "Double Dragons Sword Gold Light Gathering Fairy Array" octagonal columns, "Hundred Birds Facing Plum Columns," and "Double Dragons Facing Thirty-six Guan Generals and Eighteen Riders" octagonal columns, which are exceptionally delicate, showcasing the outstanding craftsmanship of the time and are revered as treasures of the temple. As you walk to the back of the main hall, remember to look up at the rare spiral lattice coffered ceiling, crafted in layers of spirals using extremely challenging carving techniques, which holds significant artistic value. Due to maintenance difficulties, no incense is burned in the main hall. After visiting the Qingshui Temple, consider taking a stroll around the nearby streets; besides visiting Sanxia Old Street, the nearby Ganle Cultural Creative Park offers opportunities to enjoy tofu, drink soy milk, and taste local agricultural products. You can also visit an indigo dye workshop to experience DIY fabric dyeing.
