Yuan Tong Zen Temple Introduction
Yuan Tong Zen Temple in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, was established in 1926 and took 51 years to complete. In 1924, Master Miao Qing traveled from Hsinchu to Zhonghe with the intention of establishing a temple. After two years of searching for land, she chose the current site, which overlooks the majestic Guanyin Mountain in Wugu. Construction began in 1926, starting with the Merit Hall, and the foundation was dug using stones from the mountain, combined with crushed stones and soil as building materials. After decades, the Mahavira Hall was completed. Unfortunately, due to prolonged labor, Master Miao Qing passed away in 1955 at the age of 55. The second abbot, Master Da, passed away in 1976, and the third abbot, Master Da Jing, along with the chairman, Master Da Sheng, continued the unfinished projects within the temple, which were finally completed in 1977, marking the completion ceremony in the same year. The construction of Yuan Tong Temple took a total of 51 years, spanning two generations and three abbots, making it a truly remarkable achievement. The fourth abbot, Master Ru Hui, was ordained by Master Miao Qing in 1953 and graduated from the Chinese Buddhist Canon Institute. Apart from studying Buddhism, he enjoyed painting and calligraphy. To fulfill his early aspiration of building a sutra library dedicated to the study of Buddhism, he completed the Yuan Tong Temple Library in 1982. The current abbot, Master Xing Hong, took office in 2016. Yuan Tong Zen Temple features a pure Buddhist architectural style, using stones and sand from the mountain, which harmonizes the stone temple with its surroundings while maintaining a grand atmosphere. At the entrance of the temple, there are giant stone sculptures of lions and elephants on both sides, creating a solemn aura. Upon entering the mountain gate and ascending the steps, visitors can see the main hall. Due to the long construction period, the temple has incorporated a blend of various styles; its basic form is reminiscent of the Tang dynasty, yet it also has Japanese elements, reflecting Taiwan's history and culture.
