Yuan Tong Zen Temple Introduction
Yuan Tong Zen Temple in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, was established in the 15th year of the Republic of China (1926) and took 51 years to complete. In the 13th year of the Republic of China (1924), Master Miaoqing came from Hsinchu to Zhonghe with the intention of building a temple. Over the course of two years, she searched for land and found the current location, where the majestic Wugu Guanyin Mountain could be seen from afar. Construction began in the 15th year of the Republic of China, starting with the Merit Hall. The foundation was further expanded, using stones from the mountain to build the walls and mixed gravel and sand as construction materials. After several decades, the main hall was completed. Sadly, due to prolonged toil, Master Miaoqing passed away in the 44th year of the Republic of China (1955) at the age of 55. The second abbot, Master Da, passed away in the 65th year of the Republic of China (1976). The third abbot, Master Dajing, along with the director master Dashing, planned the completion of the unfinished projects within the temple, continuing construction until it was finally completed in the 66th year of the Republic of China (1977), with a completion ceremony held that same year. The construction of Yuan Tong Temple took a total of 51 years and involved two generations and three abbots, making it a considerable achievement. The fourth abbot, Master Ruhui, was ordained by Master Miaoqing in the 42nd year of the Republic of China (1953). He graduated from the Chinese Buddhist College and, while studying Buddhism, enjoyed painting and calligraphy. To fulfill the wishes of Master Miaoqing to build a scripture library for the study of Buddhist teachings, the Yuan Tong Temple Library was completed in the 71st year of the Republic of China (1982). The current abbot, Master Xinghong, took office in 2016. Yuan Tong Zen Temple features a pure Buddhist architectural style, utilizing stones and sand from the mountain, which allows the entire stone temple, built into the mountainside, to blend harmoniously with its surroundings while exhibiting a grand atmosphere. On both sides of the temple entrance, there are colossal stone sculptures of lions and elephants, creating a dignified atmosphere. Upon entering and ascending the steps through the mountain gate, one can see the temple's main hall. Due to the lengthy construction period, the temple embodies a blend of various styles, primarily resembling Tang dynasty architecture yet subtly reflecting Japanese influences, representing Taiwan's history and culture.
