Yunglian Temple Introduction
The Yonglian Temple is located at the intersection of Dexing Street and Chenggong Road in the center of Luzhou District, named "Yonglian" due to the area's connection to the lotus formation. Luzhou was previously known as "Monk's Dwelling" because the land was once managed by monks, thus also called "Monk's Isle." The main hall enshrines the statue of Avalokiteshvara of the South Sea, accompanied by the deities Shancai, Longnu, Weituo, and Kalaraja, making it a center of local faith. The overall structure consists of the Yonglian Temple in the front and the Maode Palace in the back, functioning as a combined temple complex. The decorations both inside and outside Yonglian Temple primarily utilize techniques such as cut clay sculpture, painting, wood carving, and stone carving, with a unique feature being the numerous flying celestial musicians, which are particularly rare in other temples. In front of the Maode Palace in the back hall, there is a large bronze relief depicting historical events related to Zheng Chenggong, showcasing modern-style bronze sculptures. On either side of the entrance stand a Buddhist protective deity, with Weituo holding a pestle on the left and Kalaraja with a spear on the right, each nearly a yard tall. Yonglian Temple initially started as a small thatched hut but underwent renovations within 10 years and has been rebuilt four times, developing into today's splendid temple. Each year, from the 17th to the 19th day of the lunar month of September, known as the "Monk's Renunciation Day," Yonglian Temple holds grand celebrations; particularly on the 18th, a procession known as the "Luzhou Grand Worship" takes place, where various temple groups participate, making it a vibrant local festivity.
