Hsuan Guang Temple Introduction
During the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Japanese took the remains of Master Xuanzang from Nanjing and after the war, some of the remains were sent to the Buddhist Association of the Republic of China. In 1955, the relics were brought to Taiwan, and in 1958 they were enshrined at Xuanguang Temple beside Sun Moon Lake. Xuanguang Temple is located only a few meters from the lake, with a pier below the temple, allowing visitors to take a boat to the dock and then walk up the steps to visit. Inside the temple, there is a golden statue of Master Xuanzang with a plaque reading "National Master." Although the remains of Master Xuanzang have been relocated to Xuanzang Temple, Xuanguang Temple has become a must-visit site for tourists traveling to Sun Moon Lake due to its convenient waterway access. The architecture of Xuanguang Temple adopts a Tang style, as it was originally planned as a temporary enshrinement of Master Xuanzang's remains, giving it a simple and elegant appearance without the typical green tiles and red pillars, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Its proximity to the lake allows for a close view of Sun Moon Lake's beautiful waters, making it feel like being in a picturesque setting. In front of the temple, there is a large stone engraved with "Sun Moon Lake" and "Xuanguang Temple," which has become a popular spot for tourists to take photos. Especially on weekends, the lines of people waiting to take pictures often circle around the small temple courtyard, creating an interesting scene.
