Yuanguang Temple

Located in Liuliao, Qixing Village, Emei Township, Hsinchu, "Yuanguang Temple," also known as "Lion's Rock Cave," is the earliest Buddhist temple established among the Lion's Head Mountain temple complex, and serves as the founding ancestral temple for the entire Buddhist sanctuary. Built into the mountainside, the temple is situated at the highest point, atop the mountain, sharing a border with Miaoli County. Its serene and solemn presence seems to connect with the heavens. Yuanguang Temple was founded in the 21st year of Emperor Guangxu's reign (1895 AD) by Monk Pujie. Believer Zeng Xiuchun from Fuxing Village donated land for the construction of the hall, where Sakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin Bodhisattva are enshrined before the rock cave. The temple is built around a natural rock cave, preserving its original topography, blending nature with Buddhist dharma. It possesses a spirit within its tranquility, and a realm within its spirit. Ascending to Yuanguang Temple brings one close to the summit of Lion's Head Mountain. At the summit, there is the "Wangyue Pavilion" (Moon-Gazing Pavilion), with a county boundary marker for Hsinchu and Miaoli standing beside it, making it a popular resting and scenic spot for hikers. Standing here, with a cool breeze caressing your face and distant mountains appearing like a painting, is truly refreshing. Yuanguang Temple is not only a sacred place for religious faith but also a tranquil sanctuary where nature and culture intertwine. Whether for pilgrimage, hiking, or seeking a moment of peace, this is a spiritual realm worth pausing in.