Ling Jiou Mountain Retreat｜Exploring Jiguang Temple by Longtan Lake

Located by Longtan Lake in Jiaoxi, Yilan, Jiguang Temple is a serene and majestic Buddhist temple that unexpectedly greets visitors. This sacred site was once the retreat of Master Xindao, the founding abbot of Ling Jiou Mountain. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, the temple offers a tranquil environment that feels uniquely its own. Walking along the lakeside trail, you’ll first encounter the impressive architecture of Jiguang Temple. At the entrance hangs a thought-provoking couplet: "What is there to be unsettled when all is clear? Life and death are but illusions of existence." These brief yet profound words invite reflection. In front of the temple, there is a tea pavilion offering free hot and cold beverages, alongside a fish-viewing platform, a pomelo orchard, and informational signs. These amenities provide travelers a moment to rest and immerse themselves in the serenity of nature and the diversity of life. Inside Jiguang Temple, the Buddha statues exhibit a Thai-Burmese style, distinctly different from typical Taiwanese temples. Particularly striking is the massive reclining Buddha. If you’re hiking around Longtan Lake, consider visiting Jiguang Temple. Pay respects, enjoy the scenery, and find inner peace while embracing the harmony of nature. Jiguang Temple, Ling Jiou Mountain No. 70, Huanhu Road, Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County