Xi Dian, originally named ‘Yu An’, is located by the small stream in the southwest of Shi Ting. The temple was constructed during the Shaoxing era of the Southern Song Dynasty and has undergone several periods of rise and fall. The current structure was rebuilt during the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty.
Xi Dian Temple enshrines the Song Dynasty’s loyal and valiant marquis, Wang Da. Marquis Wang Da, styled Xun Dao, also known as Shi Quan, was originally from Sanqu Gu Mi (Longyou), with his ancestor Wang Hu serving as the Tongpan of Wenzhou and having his household registered in Yongjia. His father, Wang (Wang Dian), was the magistrate of Rui’an and upon completion of his term, settled in Jinyun Ruochuan (Qian Village) due to its beautiful mountains, clear waters, and fertile land. Wang Da was known for his bravery, proficiency in swordsmanship, and ability to walk on stilts. During the Xuanhe era, when the peasant rebellion led by Fang La reached Jinyun, Wang Da led more than eighty local young and strong men in armed resistance to protect his hometown from the flames of war. Later, under the leadership of local Song Dynasty officials, he participated in the battle against the rebel army of Lu Shi Nang in Xianju, where he distinguished himself with meritorious service. In the Shaoxing era of the Southern Song Dynasty, he was posthumously honored as the Loyal and Valiant Marquis.
Xi Dian Temple
Xi Dian, originally named ‘Yu An’, is located by the small stream in the southwest of Shi Ting. The temple […]
