Buddhist Temple on Mount Nan Taiwu

Fuxing Temple, located on Mount Nan Taiwu in Huangkeng Village, Longjiao She Ethnic Township, Longhai District, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province, is a historic Buddhist temple with profound cultural heritage and unique natural scenery. Below are detailed insights about Fuxing Temple: 1. Location Fuxing Temple is situated at the summit of Mount Nan Taiwu (approximately 567 meters above sea level), facing the East China Sea. It overlooks Xiamen's Wulao Peak and Kinmen's Mount Bei Taiwu across the sea, forming the "Three Peaks of Southern Fujian". Mount Nan Taiwu was historically an important landmark for sailors, with the Puming Yanshou Pagoda on its peak serving as a navigation guide for ships. 2. Historical Background - Construction Era: According to inscriptions, Fuxing Temple was originally built during the Tang Dynasty, initially named "Dharma Institute" or "Buddha Ancestral Hermitage". It was renovated during the Southern Song Dynasty. - Royal Connection: Legend has it that the last emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty, Zhao Bing (Xiangxing Year 1, 1278), sought refuge here. After recovering from a summer illness by consuming local herbal tea made from stone aromatic grass, he renamed the temple "Fuxing Chan Temple," symbolizing "prosperity and blessings." - Modern Changes: The temple was nearly destroyed during the Cultural Revolution but was rebuilt in the 1990s through donations from Huangkeng villagers. It is now a protected cultural heritage site in Longhai City. 3. Architecture and Layout The temple features a two-courtyard layout with an area of approximately 380 square meters. It includes: - Front Hall: Dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings. - Rear Hall: Main shrine for the Three Jewels Buddha. - Left Side Hall: Houses the Guanyin Shrine. In front of the temple, there are dragon-carved stone pillars, a crescent-shaped release pond, and a spacious platform. The overall structure is resplendent, making it a key attraction on Mount Nan Taiwu. 4. Cultural Significance - Religious Importance: Fuxing Temple is a renowned ancient temple in Southern Fujian and a legal venue for religious activities, attracting many worshippers. - Cross-Strait Exchange: The temple regularly hosts religious and cultural seminars and calligraphy forums to promote cultural exchange between Taiwan and mainland China. - Folklore: Mount Nan Taiwu is associated with the "Immortal Footprint" legend, which corresponds to a similar footprint on Mount Bei Taiwu in Kinmen. It is said to be left by Han Zhongli, one of the Eight Immortals. 5. Tourism Value - Natural Scenery: Mount Nan Taiwu offers stunning views of the East China Sea and surrounding islands, making it an ideal spot for hiking and sea-gazing. - Historical Sites: Nearby attractions include relics from the Southern Song Dynasty's resistance against the Yuan Dynasty and the Puming Yanshou Pagoda. 6. Travel Tips - Safety: The mountain roads are steep and slippery during rainy days. There have been accidents involving tourists falling off cliffs, so caution is advised. - Transportation: Self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. The temple is accessible via a winding mountain road. - Best Season: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, while summer requires precautions against heat and sun exposure. Conclusion Fuxing Temple is not only a significant Buddhist site in Zhangzhou but also a destination that blends historical legends, natural beauty, and cross-strait cultural exchange. If planning a visit, it is advisable to check the weather and road conditions in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.