Yongan Temple Introduction
Yong'an Temple faces southeast and is oriented northwest. The temple grounds are spacious, covering more than 300 ping, and features a three-entrance, five-gate structure. The decorative ridges of the front hall are adorned with two dragons facing the celestial beings, while the deities ride a green dragon. The central ridge displays a colorful phoenix spreading its wings, with vivid human figures. The two side ridges showcase the green dragons leaping energetically, embellished with dragon and phoenix motifs. The columns are decorated with single dragon carvings supporting the red terrace, alongside images of humans and birds. The base is octagonal, and the wall niche presents a vivid scene of myriad celestial beings. The main deity worshiped in the middle hall is the Heavenly Goddess, while the back hall is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, with the second floor housing various Buddhist and Taoist deities. Visitors to Yong'an Temple can admire the rich works of paper-cutting art, along with some interesting features. For instance, upon entering the temple, a plaque inscribed with "Eternal Blessings and Peace" hangs over the flower canopy in the worship hall, symbolizing the spirit of Yong'an. Additionally, the couplets at the entrance contain a hidden message: "The holy virtue matches heaven, the sea of grace flows deep and endlessly; the maternal figure is revered, the Yangtze River calms for a celebration of peace." Unlike the common headword style of temple names, the first characters of the couplet do not form "Yong'an," but rather "Holy Mother," with the temple name concealed in the second to last character. This simple couplet highlights the main deity being worshipped and the location of the temple.
