Cihantan Temple Introduction
The renowned Buddhist temple in Taiwan, Taichung Charity Temple, was originally established as Charity Hall in the 18th year of the Guangxu Emperor's reign. It has been one of the Buddhist sites in Taichung City during the late Qing Dynasty. After the recovery of Taiwan, with the departure of Japanese sects and the introduction of Buddhism from Mainland China, Taichung Buddhism entered a new phase. In 1955, Charity Hall was renamed Charity Temple, and under the subsequent leadership of masters Shan Zhi, Lü Hang, Guang Hua, and Zhen Guang, the temple thrived gradually. The history of Charity Temple dates back to the fifth year of the Republic of China during the Japanese rule when local figures like Lin Tong established "Charity Hall." After the recovery of Taiwan, under the stewardship of Master Lü Hang, the temple was restructured and the monastic discipline was established, forming a solid foundation with the aim of observing precepts and chanting the Buddha's name. In the 52nd year of the Republic of China, Master Zhen Guang succeeded as abbot, pledged to renovate the old temple, and through various fundraising efforts, completed constructions such as the Main Hall, Elderly Care Center, and Huazang Pagoda, marking the initial establishment of Charity Temple. In the 60th year of the Republic of China, the first National Buddha Precepts Ceremony was held, a grand event in the Buddhist community conducted with great solemnity. In the 73rd year of the Republic of China, Charity Temple was renovated again, expanding lecture halls, dining halls, and dormitories. After twenty years of efforts, master Zhen Guang’s dedication to reform and expansion led to the magnificent Charity Temple becoming a famous Buddhist site in Taiwan. In the 80th year of the Republic of China, Master Hui Kong established the "Taichung Charity Temple Cultural and Educational Foundation," founding a Buddhist academy and the Taichung Guanyin Line, joining social services with the spirit of compassion. In the 87th year, the "Taichung Charity Temple Foundation" was established, and in the 90th year, Master Hong Can took over as chairman, promoting temple affairs and fostering connections with the community through cultural and artistic activities in the lecture hall. The appearance of Charity Temple is grand and majestic, its garden scenery is elegant, and the environment is tranquil, making it a popular destination for outings and tourism in the Beitun area. In recent years, under Master Hong Can's leadership, the temple has actively engaged with the community, promoting courses in calligraphy, piano, and flower arrangement, and forging connections with the public through worldly engagement.
