Gao Chong Temple is situated on the southern slope of Huangshan Mountain in Zhenjiang, facing north to south. It forms an interesting contrast with Nanshan Zhaoyin Temple Park and Bamboo Forest Temple at the foot of the mountain, and Guanyin Zen Temple on the opposite peak, collectively known as Jiuhua Mountain Gao Chong Temple.
The temple was originally built in the 13th year of the Zhenguan era of the Tang Dynasty, over 1360 years ago, having experienced the vicissitudes of time and several periods of rise and fall. Exiting the temple’s mountain gate, a path to the left leads to Jiuhua Mountain, where the ancient Youxixi Temple site can be found. Directly ahead, a deep valley is formed by Jiuhua Mountain and Xianshan Peak. Through the dense foliage on either side, one can faintly discern an old, neglected, and severely damaged cobblestone path that stretches intermittently forward. The deep ruts on the cobblestone surface bear witness to the prosperity this ancient road once enjoyed. Gao Chong Temple is the only Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s venue in Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province, with a long history. The present-day Gao Chong Temple was established in the 13th year of Emperor Taizong’s reign (639 AD), and it has been standing for 1371 years. Throughout the ages, monks have repaired and expanded the temple, which is solemn in its grandeur and impressive in scale. At its peak, the temple boasted hundreds of halls, making it a spectacular sight. The temple houses a Ming Dynasty bell from the Wanli era and a thousand Buddhas’ pavilion. Scholars and Confucian students would enter the temple to study religious history and quietly explore the mysteries of Zen, with monks gathering and widely sowing the seeds of Buddhism. Although it has weathered the storms of time, the ancient temple no longer has the grandeur of its past, yet its majestic aura remains undiminished. Located within the Nanshan National Forest Park, surrounded by mountains and with a tranquil environment, the scenery is particularly beautiful. Locals often visit for rest and self-cultivation on weekends. The opening hours are from 06:00 to 17:00 all year round; from 05:00 to 19:00 all year round, with the specific business status subject to the day’s opening conditions.Gao Chong Temple
Gao Chong Temple is situated on the southern slope of Huangshan Mountain in Zhenjiang, facing north [...]
