Donghe Zen Temple Introduction
Donghe Zen Temple is located outside the East Gate of Taipei. Originally known as the Soto Zen Sect Head Temple Branch, it was established by Japanese monks in 1908, with the designer being Japanese architect Sentaro Naruoka. In 1916, a Buddhist school was attached to it for the education of monks and laypeople's children to study Buddhist doctrines and general knowledge. In 1935, it was renamed Taipei Middle School (Tāipei Zhōngxué), and after the war, it was renamed Taibei Middle School. In 1930, a tall bell tower was constructed in front of the main hall, which still exists today. However, the main hall and other ancient buildings were occupied and severely damaged by the military and civilians for an extended period and have been demolished in recent years, which is quite regrettable. The bell tower's architecture is distinctive; though it is constructed of reinforced concrete, the details are crafted following traditional rules. The roof is a single-eaved Xieshan style, covered with Japanese black tiles, with a ridge ornament. A large bronze bell is suspended inside the second floor, and the external balcony features a prominent flat railing, exuding a sense of ethereal beauty. The first floor utilizes coarse stone blocks and has arched entrances, resembling a city gate. This style was originally popular during Japan's Momoyama and Edo periods and evolved into modern Japanese-style architecture in the 20th century. (Source: Ministry of Culture, Cultural Heritage Administration)
