Deyuan Zen Temple Introduction
Deyuan Zen Temple, originally named Guanyin Temple, is located south of the Wu Feng Residence on Qinghua Mountain in Chiayi County. It was built in the 5th year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty and was later renovated by Master Yimin, who renamed it Deyuan Zen Temple. According to legend, during the 5th year of Qianlong, there was a girl named Xingshui who left the worldly troubles behind. Deyuan Zen Temple, originally known as "Qinghua Mountain Guanyin Pavilion," is located halfway up Qinghua Mountain, right beside the road south of the Wu Feng Residence. It can be easily reached by following the signs. The temple is designed in a traditional Sanheyuan architectural style, with the main hall dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha standing solemnly in the center. Two white elephants guard the sides as one ascends the steps to the grand hall, where there are wings and Zen rooms on either side. Behind the hall is an avocado tree personally planted by a nun, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a pleasant scenic environment. Due to its tranquil scenery and unique architecture resembling a Sanheyuan, the front courtyard is richly planted with flowers, leading into the Daxiong Baodian that enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, which exudes an air of solemnity and reverence. To the right of the hall is a green lawn, while in front are the Deyuan Zen Academy and Zhengyan Library, making it a popular tourist destination.
