Wuji Zhenyuan Temple (Tianyuan Temple) Introduction
Tamsui Tianyuan Temple is located on the northwest side of the Datun Mountain Range, approximately 5 kilometers from Tamsui City. Founded in the 1970s, the main hall enshrines the Supreme Ancestor, with the main deity being the Jade Emperor. In 1992, the "Wuji Zhenyuan Tianta" was added, a five-story sacred hall reaching 200 feet tall, with a circular building diameter of 108 feet, majestic and spectacular. Each level of the temple honors various enlightened beings from the Wuji realm, and during the cherry blossom season, the magnificent temple harmonizes beautifully with the blossoms, making it a must-visit. The building complex of Tianyuan Temple is constructed on the hilly area at the foot of Tian Mountain, facing the sea, exuding grandeur. The stepped design conforms to the mountain terrain, enhancing the layered effect of the structures and giving the temple a more solemn and magnificent visual appeal. The Tianyuan Temple complex can be divided into three main areas: the Wuji Tianyuan Temple at the foot of the mountain, the Tianta located halfway up the mountain, and the back mountain garden area at the highest point, each with its own unique characteristics and stunning views. As spring breezes blow, cherry blossoms at Tianyuan Temple silently bloom, ushering in the most beautiful season of the year. The cherry blossoms are primarily planted in the back mountain garden area and around the Tianta, with different species planted, leading to slight differences in blooming periods. The mountain cherry blossoms in the back bloom from late January to mid-February, while the pink and white Yoshino cherry blossoms around the Tianta bloom about a month later, attracting the most cherry blossom watchers. At night, the Tianta is adorned with lights, complementing the swaying cherry blossoms, creating a unique charm.
