Yuan Tong Zen Temple Introduction
Yuantong Temple in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, was established in the 15th year of the Republic of China and took 51 years to complete. In the 13th year of the Republic of China, Master Miaoqing traveled from Hsinchu to Zhonghe with the intention of establishing a temple. After two years of searching for land and finding the current site overlooking Guanyin Mountain in Wugu, with its majestic view, construction began in the 15th year. Initially, the Merit Hall was built, followed by the foundation, utilizing stones from the mountain for the walls and mixing gravel and sand for the construction materials. After several decades, the Main Shrine was completed. Unfortunately, due to prolonged exhaustion, Master Miaoqing passed away in the 44th year of the Republic of China at the age of 55. The second abbot, Master Dachan, passed away in the 65th year, and the third abbot, Master Dajing, along with Chief Administrator Master Dasheng, continued with the unfinished projects of the temple until it was finally completed in the 66th year, with the completion ceremony held that same year. The construction of Yuantong Temple took a total of 51 years and involved two generations and three abbots, which is truly remarkable. The fourth abbot, Master Ruhui, was ordained by Master Miaoqing in the 42nd year of the Republic of China. He graduated from the China Buddhist Tripitaka Institute and enjoyed painting and calligraphy in addition to studying Buddhism. To fulfill the wish of his master to build a scripture library for Buddhist studies, the Yuantong Temple Library was completed in the 71st year of the Republic of China. The current abbot, Master Xinghong, took office in the 105th year of the Republic of China (2016 AD). Yuantong Temple features a pure Buddhist architectural style, utilizing stones and sand from the mountain, which allows the entire stone temple built against the mountain to blend harmoniously with its surroundings while exhibiting a majestic atmosphere. At the entrance of the temple, there are giant lion and elephant sculptures on either side, creating a solemn atmosphere. Upon entering the mountain gate and ascending the steps, one can see the main hall of Yuantong Temple. Due to the long construction period, the temple integrated multiple styles over time, primarily reflecting a Tang dynasty style but with a slight Japanese flavor, illustrating Taiwan's history and culture.
