Fo Guang Shan Hueichung Temple Introduction
The traditional temples are often hidden in the mountains, seeking tranquility and peace, while Huizhong Temple showcases a modern appearance of "great concealment in the city," solemnly located in the seventh redevelopment zone of Taichung City, becoming a spiritual sanctuary in the urban landscape. When Master Hsing Yun first came to Taiwan, he resided at Leyou Temple in Yilan. In 1965, he founded Shoushan Buddhist College in Kaohsiung. In 1967, he purchased land in Dashi Township, Kaohsiung, to establish the foundation of Fo Guang Shan. In 1992, he set up the Eastern Taiwan Dharma Center to serve the followers in Taichung City, and in 1996, he further established the "Guangming Academy" to enhance educational development. After over a decade of united efforts from the members of Fo Guang Shan, the number of followers in Taichung surged, and the space became insufficient. After extensive searching, in August 2004, after a personal inspection by the Master and senior monks, the decision was made by the Fo Guang Shan Administrative Committee to establish a comprehensive and diverse modern Buddhist cultural and educational center at the site of the Formosa Restaurant on Huizhong Road, naming it Fo Guang Shan Huizhong Temple. Huizhong Temple rises five stories high, with a total floor area of over 3,000 pings, containing numerous large and small rooms. Upholding the spirit of the existing architecture, under the wise guidance of the Master, it was decided to retain the original building layout. Therefore, unlike traditional temples with their solemn carved beams and painted rafters, Huizhong Temple maintains the appearance and structure of the original restaurant, featuring a European Baroque style exterior. The abbot, Master Jueju, mentioned, "It’s quite coincidental that the restaurant is adorned with elephants, which symbolize great conduct in Buddhism; perhaps this place had a connection with Buddhism from the beginning." The temple and restaurant were originally unrelated entities, yet surprisingly, the restaurant space only required minor adjustments to transform into a serene and elegant place for practice. A professor from the Department of Architecture at Nanhua University, who visited the temple, remarked, "This is truly an astonishing architectural transformation." In 2007, monks from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand visited the temple. As they stepped off the tour bus and faced Huizhong Temple, everyone's eyes widened in admiration, sparkling with amazement. During the subsequent discussion, the first question they asked was, "Are all Fo Guang Shan temples like this?" Transforming a restaurant into a Dharma center, a pure white and elegant lotus blooms from the bustling world—how could this be possible without "magic"? It is said, "Where there is the Dharma, there is a way." Thus, the private rooms became classrooms and dormitories, and the grand banquet hall on the third floor turned into the Mahavira Hall, where the round roof creates an exceptional echo effect. During ceremonies, the sound of chanting resonates beautifully through the circular ceiling, lingering continuously. Standing in front of Huizhong Temple, you will see the central glass doors always wide open, welcoming those with affinity. Upon entering, you will find two spiral staircases, a favorite spot for newlyweds to take wedding photos. The roof features a soaring glass atrium, and when sunlight cascades through, it sparkles like a world of seven treasures and colored glaze. The magnificent atrium embodies the elegance and solemnity of cultural atmosphere. The service desk located in the circular space on the west side of the entrance is specifically dedicated to serving visiting followers. Why not take a stroll at Huizhong Temple now? The diverse and rich aspects of Huizhong Temple will surely provide you with a unique experience!
