In front of the mountain gate of the Grand Buddha Temple lies a vast area that has been transformed in recent years. The land has been leveled and adorned with an array of flowers and plants, culminating in the construction of the Buddha Heart Square, which spans over 5,000 square meters. This square is a beautiful testament to the cultural significance of the region, primarily featuring the enlarged handwriting of Master Hongyi, with the character ‘Buddha’ engraved on the cliff, and the immense character ‘Heart’ inscribed on the flat ground beneath the cliff wall. The striking red character ‘Buddha’ stands 20 meters tall, its grandeur reaching for the sky as it stands firmly on the ground.
At the forefront of the square, an oval-shaped large screen wall captures the eye. Adjacent to this screen wall is a lotus pond, measuring a diameter of 10 meters. The lotus petals within the pond are exquisitely crafted from white marble, adding a touch of elegance to the landscape. Within the lotus pod, a spring flows continuously, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Buddhist culture in Xinchang. Scattered throughout the square are additional scenic elements that enhance its beauty.
On the large screen wall, one can find Meng Haoran’s poem ‘Ode to Shicheng’, inscribed by the renowned calligrapher Zhu Guantian. Also within the square is an ‘ancient well pavilion’, a structure with a flat roof and distinctive eaves. Its ceiling features a skylight, showcasing an innovative architectural design. Inside this pavilion, a square black stone well curb ring is displayed, originally from the Chenjia Well in the county town. It was relocated here following the demolition of the town. A couplet in the well pavilion, penned by calligrapher Guo Zhongxuan, reads: ‘Maitreya’s magnificent posture shows precious images in Shicheng.’ This couplet adds a layer of depth and meaning to the already rich cultural tapestry of the Buddha Heart Square.The auspicious statue of the Southern Dynasties emanates spiritual springs from the ancient well.
Visiting Hours:
– From May 1st to September 30th, the site is open from 06:00 to 17:30.
– From October 1st to April 30th, the site is open from 06:00 to 17:00.
