Bantianyan Introduction
At Banjhiyou Rock, there is a temple called Ziyun Temple, which is designated as a county historic monument. Next to the temple stands a towering Avalokitesvara statue measuring seventy-six feet. Due to the area's picturesque scenery, the government intends to plan it as Banjhiyou Forest Recreation Area, making it perfect for a day trip for the residents of Chiayi. To climb Banjhiyou Mountain, visitors can walk three kilometers along Dahuah Highway from Ziyun Temple. Ziyun Temple at Banjhiyou Rock is located in Yanzi, Minhe Village, about seventeen kilometers from downtown. It is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Taiwan, constructed in the 21st year of the Kangxi era (AD 1682), boasting over 300 years of history. The temple is grand and simple, serving as the center of faith for the residents of Fanlu. Legend has it that in 1662, a monk named Juefeng crossed the sea to Taiwan, traveled here, and was enchanted by the elegant peaks and serene scenery, away from the hustle and bustle of life, exclaiming, "This is a magnificent place, like Yilan." He then cleared the land and settled here. Fanlu Township is located five kilometers upstream of Bajhang River, east of Chiayi City. It was once a passageway for the Alishan Tsou Indigenous people. Residents from the Alishan townships of Shanmei, Leyue, and Dabang would travel through Fanlu to trade for supplies, which is why it was called "Fanzi Road," later changed to "Fanlu" during the Japanese occupation. To this day, remnants of the lookout point built for defense against external threats remain. Banjhiyou Rock is the most important attraction for the residents of Fanlu and serves as their center of faith. Additionally, it is a significant gateway along Dahuah Highway (County Road 159B) leading into Alishan.
