Deyang Mianzhu Jixiang Temple | Discover Zen in a Millennia-Old Temple
| Discover Zen in a millennia-old temple. Hidden in the Baiyun Mountains of Deyang Mianzhu lies the ancient Jixiang Temple. It is not only a religious sanctuary steeped in history and culture but also a tranquil haven for spiritual respite. Whether you're tracing historical footsteps or seeking inner peace, this temple is well worth a visit.
Basic Information
- Address: Located within Hanwang Town (formerly Wudu Town), Mianzhu City, Deyang City, Sichuan Province, nestled at the foot of the scenic Baiyun Mountains.
- Opening Hours: 07:00 - 18:00, open year-round, welcoming visitors anytime.
- Admission: Free, step into this tranquil space without any entrance fee.
History
Jixiang Temple, originally built in the early Eastern Han Dynasty, is said to be the second Buddhist temple in China after the White Horse Temple in Luoyang. Legend has it that it was built by Emperor Liu Zhuang of the Eastern Han Dynasty to honor his father, Emperor Liu Xiu. The temple houses the cenotaph of Ma Wu, a great general of the Eastern Han Dynasty, and once held 12 volumes of scriptures on palm leaves preserved from the Tang Dynasty, as well as the "Epitaph of Jinghui Temple on Wudu Mountain in Yizhou" written by Wang Bo. It boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed in the devastating 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. It was later rebuilt by Jiangsu Wuxi Lingshan Industrial Co., Ltd. and Wuxi Xiangfu Chan Temple, adopting the architectural style of the Han and Tang dynasties with a grand, full-frame structure.
Getting There
- By Car: From Chengdu, take the Chengmian Expressway to Mianzhu City, then follow the navigation to Wudu Town Jixiang Temple. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. The scenic route with rolling hills offers a glimpse of nature's beauty before you even arrive.
- Public Transport: Take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Mianzhu Station, then transfer to a local taxi or bus to the temple, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, take Bus No. 6 from Mianzhu North Square. The fare is 2 yuan, and the journey takes about 17 minutes, passing through 11 stops, allowing you to enjoy the rural scenery along the way.
Must-See Attractions
- Mahavira Hall: Built with a full-frame structure in the Han and Tang architectural style, the hall features simple and heavy colors, exuding grandeur. Its height, length, and area are unparalleled in Southwest China. Inside, solemn Buddha statues and vivid Arhat statues inspire awe and reverence.
- Guanyin Hall: The thousand-year-old Guanyin statue inside, carved from camphor wood, has a history of 1,800 years and still emits a captivating fragrance, a rare treasure. Many visitors come here to pray and experience the compassion and peace passed down through millennia.
- Scripture Depository: Despite its age, the depository still houses a wealth of Buddhist scriptures, carrying a profound Buddhist culture. Standing before it, you can sense the tranquility and sanctity, as if hearing echoes of history.
Suggested Route
Enter through the mountain gate, and the first sight that greets you is the Heavenly King Hall, where the Four Heavenly Kings stand majestically, guarding the temple. Next is the Ksitigarbha Hall, dedicated to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the embodiment of compassion. Further on is the Guanyin Hall, where you can admire the thousand-year-old Guanyin statue. Then, proceed to the Mahavira Hall to experience its magnificence. Afterward, you can visit the Buddha Mother Hall and finally the Scripture Depository to learn about Buddhist culture. The entire route is designed to allow you to fully appreciate the solemnity and sanctity of Jixiang Temple.
Nearby Attractions
- Lutang Hot Springs: In winter, visit Lutang Hot Springs to relax in the warm spring water, admire the surrounding landscape, and enjoy a pleasant time.
- Rose Valley: About a 10-minute drive from Jixiang Temple, this valley boasts not only beautiful rose fields but also a castle. It's perfect for taking photos, bringing children, and enjoying a leisurely afternoon with meals and tea.
Food Recommendations
- Temple Vegetarian Food: The vegetarian food at Jixiang Temple is light and delicious, made with fresh ingredients and carefully prepared by the temple monks. It offers a tranquil and peaceful dining experience.
- Local Farmhouse Restaurants: Nearby farmhouse restaurants offer various local dishes, such as firewood chicken, preserved bacon, and cold mixed wild vegetables. The ingredients are mostly locally sourced, offering authentic rural flavors.
Things to Note
- Respect Religious Beliefs: Maintain silence inside the temple, avoid loud conversations, refrain from touching Buddha statues and ritual objects, and respect religious ceremonies and the beliefs of worshippers.
- Dress Code: Dress respectfully, avoiding overly revealing or eccentric clothing, as a sign of respect for the temple.
- Environmental Protection: Please protect the environment around the temple, do not litter, and help maintain the cleanliness of this sacred place.