Exquisite Zen Forest, Scenic Spot in Sichuan | Neijiang Shengshui Temple

⛩ Exploring the lesser-known beautiful temple in Neijiang—Shengshui Temple 📖Introduction to Shengshui Temple: Located about four kilometers west of Neijiang City on the bank of the Tuo River, the temple was first built during the Xiantong period (860-873 AD) of the Tang Dynasty. In the Tang Dynasty, there was a water-viewing Zen master who practiced here and enlightened by observing the water. After expansion in the early Song Dynasty, it was renamed 'Xingci Zen Temple'. Later, because there was a spring flowing out of the rocks behind the Yuanjue Tower all year round, the water was pure, sweet and refreshing, and was regarded as a 'spiritual spring' or 'holy water', hence the name Shengshui Temple. 🏯Shengshui Temple has been renovated in every dynasty since the end of the Tang Dynasty. At its peak, there were more than 100 resident monks, up to more than 300, one of the 'Eight Great Zen Forests' in Sichuan, known as the 'First Zen Forest in Zhongchuan'. Due to its long history, ancient relics are everywhere, and many high-ranking monks have emerged, enjoying a high status in the Buddhist community in Sichuan. Several high-ranking monks have appeared in the history of Shengshui Temple, they are Zhang Xue, Mo Ye, Ke Zhuo, Qing De and layman Wang Enyang. 🌟Highlights: Shengshui Temple is divided into 4 courtyards, with the Yuanjue Tower, Scripture Tower, Daxiong Hall, and Heavenly King Hall arranged from west to east on the central axis, all in Ming and Qing styles; on both sides of the central axis are corridors, with guest halls, Wuguan Hall, Zen Hall, Nianfo Hall, etc.; on the left side of the temple are the Jade Buddha Hall, Three Saints Hall, and Medicine Buddha Hall; further to the left are the Guanyin Hall and Dizang Hall; on the right side of the temple, the Ancestor Hall forms an independent courtyard. There are also stone arch bridges from the Song and Ming Dynasties, stone archways, and inscriptions by famous people from all dynasties, and 20 rock carvings. The ceiling of the Dizang Hall is painted with a picture of Xuanzang's journey to the west, with vivid characters and fine brushwork. 📍Detailed Address: 151 Shengjiang Road, Shizhong District, Neijiang City Ticket🎫: 1 yuan 📝tips: 1、A quiet and elegant place with very few tourists 2、The temple is small, but the structure is compact and unique, don't miss it if you like ancient architecture