Guanyin didn’t want to go to Japan. Legend says that a Japanese monk named Hui’e wanted to bring a statue of Guanyin to Japan. A windstorm blocked his path near Mount Putuo. Hui’e took it as a sign. Guanyin wanted to stay here. He left the statue with a local. The fisherman gave his house to Guanyin. This house became a temple. It was called Bukenqu Guanyin Yuan. It means Refusing to Go Guanyin Temple.
Now we stand before \u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa. This temple has a rich history. It has been rebuilt and renamed over centuries. \u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa is located on Putuo Mountain. This small island is a Buddhist pilgrimage site. People have visited it for thousands of years. It is known as the Buddhist kingdom on the sea.
Originally, it was the \”Unwilling Guanyin Temple\”. This happened in 916. Emperor Shenzong renamed it Baotuo Guanyin Temple in 1080. Emperor Wanli gave it the name Huguo Yongshou Putuo Chan Temple in 1605. Finally, Emperor Kangxi of the Qing dynasty gave it its current name. He called it \u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa.
\u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa is the largest temple on Mount Putuo. It is the main temple for Guanyin. Because of its location at the foot of Lingjiu Peak it is also known as Front Temple. The temple complex includes many halls. There is Shanmen. There is also the Hall of the Four Heavenly Kings. You will also find Mahavira Hall. Don’t forget to visit Yuantong Hall and the Buddhist Texts Library. There are over 600 rooms and halls. These include the Hall of Guru and the Hall of Arhat. You can also find a Dining Hall and Meditation Hall.
Let’s step inside Yuantong Hall. This is the main hall. It enshrines Guanyin. It was first built in 1214. It was rebuilt in 1693. It is 18 meters high. It is 42 meters wide and 24 meters deep. Look at the roof. It is covered in yellow glazed tiles. Inside, an 8.8-meter statue of Guanyin stands tall. She wears a heavenly crown. It has a statue of Amitabha. Around her are 32 statues of Guanyin. These represent her different forms.
Outside, notice the Multi-Treasure Pagoda. It was built in 1334. It is the oldest structure on Mount Putuo. Also, admire the Free Life Pond. It is known for its five-color lotus flowers. The Yongshou Bridge spans the pond. It was built in 1606.
Emperor Qianlong visited \u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa in disguise. He arrived late at night. The abbot made him enter through the side gate. The Emperor was angry. He ordered the main gate to be closed forever. Later, he relented. The gate could open every 60 years. Or it could open for special events. These could include an emperor’s visit. It could also be opened for the death of an abbot. This tradition makes the temple even more special.
Today, \u666e\u6d4e\u7985\u5bfa stands as a testament to faith. It reflects the devotion of countless worshippers. It is a place of peace and beauty. Its rich history and stunning architecture leave a lasting impression. As you leave, remember the legends and the spirit of Buddhism. They thrive on this sacred mountain.