Zhangshan Temple Introduction
Built in 1931, Zhangshan Temple features a simple and solid appearance. It enshrines the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, and according to legend, in the early years of the Republic of China, a resident living near Zhanghu accidentally discovered a stone statue resembling Avalokitesvara. He sincerely began to worship it, and as prayers were answered, more followers joined, leading to the temple being built with funds raised by devotees, undergoing several renovations to reach its current form. The temple is situated on a high point, with a spacious plaza in front that offers an excellent view of the Greater Taipei area. There are three hiking trails nearby, making it the most famous temple in the Muzha tea district, often frequented by hikers and worshippers, especially on holidays. Besides the Zhinan Temple, Zhangshan Temple is the most renowned temple in the Erge Mountain Range. It boasts exceptional views, prominently featuring the Taipei Basin, and frequently attracts hiking enthusiasts who stop to enjoy the vista. The surrounding tea gardens are abundant, drawing in tea-tasting visitors, making it a significant recreational hub for the public. Centered around Zhangshan Temple, three trails radiate out to other leisure points, including the Feilong Mountain Trail (leading to National Chengchi University’s Huanshan Road), the segment connecting to Zhinan Elementary School, and the Jiuchian Temple Trail, all starting and ending at Zhangshan Temple Plaza. The Feilong Trail is characterized by continuous stones along its middle, appearing from a distance like the spine of a dinosaur, hence its name. The trail system connecting to Zhinan Elementary School (No. 9-2, Lane 34, Section 3, Zhinan Road) runs alongside Tieguanyin tea gardens, and upon completing the trail, a tea fragrance envelops the body. The Jiuchian Temple Trail is steeper; however, before reaching Fude Temple, there is a century-old banyan tree with twisted roots forming peculiar tree nodules, creating a remarkably unique sight.
