Yuantong Zen Temple in Zhonghe, New Taipei City

Yuantong Zen Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City. It was founded in 1926 and took 51 years to complete. The temple is situated on Baijie Mountain at an altitude of 180 meters, offering a majestic view of Guanyin Mountain in Wugu. The temple features pure Buddhist architectural style, using stones and sand from the mountain, and incorporates elements of Tang and Japanese styles, showcasing Taiwan's history and culture. Upon climbing the steps in front of the temple and passing two large statues of lions and elephants, you can directly see the grand statue of Maitreya Buddha, who gazes benevolently over the Taipei Basin. The plaque above bears the inscription 'Delight All Hearts.' Inside the temple, Shakyamuni Buddha is enshrined. Additionally, there are a library, bell tower, wall carvings, and other buildings and artworks worth admiring. However, like many of Taiwan's mountain areas, the serene environment is sometimes disturbed by the loud karaoke sounds from nearby. Moreover, the numerous new apartment buildings constructed on the mountain over the past 20 years have significantly diminished the scenic beauty. Address: No. 64, Lane 367, Yuantong Road, Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, Taiwan