A weathered stone statue gazes serenely across the courtyard. This is the Cao Yuan Guan. More commonly known as the Cao Yuan View it’s a Taoist temple nestled in the hills of Beijing. Its history stretches back to the Ming Dynasty. Legend says it was originally called the Miaojiao Temple. Built sometime between 1522 and 1567 it stood amidst the green trees of Yanshan. Its secluded location earned it the nickname “Xi’e Temple”.
The temple initially consisted of two main halls. The first was called the Lingguan Hall. It housed the statues of the celestial emperor and two guardian deities. The second hall called the Sanqing Hall enshrined the statues of three Taoist deities. Connecting these halls were two smaller chambers. Beyond the main halls lay a courtyard with stone carvings and a clear spring.
In the Qing Dynasty a significant event occurred. In the late 19th century Taoist priest Wang Mingrui took up residence. He renamed the temple Cao Yuan Guan. This was after his own family name. After his passing his nephew Zhang Cheng continued the temple’s legacy. He even established the Qianfeng Xiantian Sect a branch of Taoism. The Cao Yuan Guan flourished during this time.
Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China the Cao Yuan Guan ceased to be a functioning religious site. However its story didn’t end there. In 2003 a major renovation took place. This was led by Huang Xinyi. He was the vice chairman of the China Taoist Association and the chairman of the Beijing Taoist Association. The restoration returned the temple to its former glory. By 2006 the Cao Yuan Guan had regained its religious license.
Today the Cao Yuan Guan stands as a testament to resilience and faith. Visitors can explore its restored halls. They can marvel at the intricate carvings and the serene atmosphere. The temple’s main structures have been rebuilt. The Lingguan Hall and the Sanqing Hall stand proudly. The Xiu Xian Cave is a highlight. Tradition says it’s where the Taoist master Zhong Libao practiced his Taoist arts. A listening cave near the Shizu Hall is also a captivating spot. This cave was reputedly opened during the Jin Dynasty. Inside visitors can reflect upon the echoes of ancient wisdom. The Cao Yuan Guan is more than just a building. It’s a living link to a rich cultural and spiritual history. It embodies the enduring spirit of Taoism in modern-day Beijing.