To travel from Pu Jie Temple to Fa Yu Temple, one must pass through a fragrant path known as ‘Yu Tang Street’. At the end of this path lies a pond called ‘Ri Lian Pond’. Above the pond stands the Hai Hui Bridge, which serves as the main entrance to Fa Yu Temple. This bridge was constructed in the 15th year of the Guangxu era (1889) through the efforts of the temple’s abbot in raising funds.
In front of the bridge, ancient trees tower high, creating a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. The term ‘Hai Hui’ refers to the gathering of numerous Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, whose virtues and numbers are as vast and boundless as the ocean, hence the name. The Hai Hui Bridge spans across Ri Lian Pond, dividing it into two sections: east and west.
The bridge is a single-arch stone bridge, approximately 20 meters long and 5 meters wide. The double-sided reliefs on both sides of the railings feature 52 exquisite carvings depicting various dramatic stories, bamboo and floral arrangements, birds and beasts, as well as shrimps, crabs, fish, and turtles, all vividly and intricately crafted.
The bridge is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.
Hai Hui Bridge
To travel from Pu Jie Temple to Fa Yu Temple, one must pass through a fragrant path known as ‘Yu […]
