There are numerous temples in Hangzhou, among which Xianzhao Zen Temple is located on Shiyan Mountain, southeast of Xianghu. Originally constructed during the Song Dynasty, the temple’s name implies ‘the first light of the morning sun shines upon this temple’. It was destroyed by Japanese artillery in 1941 and has since been rebuilt. Upon visiting this temple, one can be greeted by the first rays of dawn and enjoy the beautiful morning light.
The panoramic pavilion on Shiyan Mountain, known as the ‘Yi Lan Ting’, was built by the prefectural governor Hongzhu in the 10th year of the Jiajing era (1531). It was constructed on Shiyan Mountain, facing the south of Xianghu. ‘Yi Lan’ means ‘a panoramic view of the lake and mountains’. Every autumn, people climb the mountain in groups to overlook the scenery of the three rivers (Qiantang River, Fuchun River, Puyang River) and one lake (Xianghu), enjoying the red leaves and yellow flowers. This is also one of the eight scenic views of Xiaoshan, known as ‘Shiyan Mountain Autumn View’. After admiring the scenery, Qing dynasty poet Zhou Yizao left behind the beautiful verse ‘Gazing around, the river tides and lake waters are like a painting’.
The pavilion was destroyed by Japanese artillery in 1941, leaving only a few broken pillars. In 1994, it was rebuilt near the original site. The new pavilion we see today is the one rebuilt in 1994. It is open all year round from 8:00 to 17:00, with specific opening times subject to on-site announcements at the scenic area.
Xianzhao Zen Temple
There are numerous temples in Hangzhou, among which Xianzhao Zen Temple is located on Shiyan Mountai[...]
