The Pagoda Subdues the River Demon, Preventing the Rise of Another Empress

Yuanqi Temple is located on Fenghuang Mountain (Phoenix Mountain) on the south bank of the Zhuozhang River in Xin'an Village, Huangniuti Township, Lucheng District, Changzhi City. It is a nationally protected key cultural heritage site. The name "Yuanqi" carries meanings of origin, beginning, and predestined inception. Legend has it that Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, Li Longji, fearing the prophecy of "another empress rising," ordered the construction of Yuanqi Temple on Fenghuang Mountain (shaped like a phoenix, a geomantically noble site) in 747 AD to suppress the "phoenix vein" and prevent future empresses or imperial consorts from threatening the Li-Tang dynasty. In 1087 AD, during the Northern Song Dynasty, the Qinglong Pagoda (Azure Dragon Pagoda) was added to further strengthen the "vein-subduing" function, forming the feng shui layout of "the pagoda subduing the river demon." According to the temple's sutra pillar records, Yuanqi Temple was first built in 747 AD during the Tang Dynasty, with the Qinglong Pagoda added in 1087 AD. It underwent renovations across dynasties. The Mahavira Hall and Qinglong Pagoda retain their original Song Dynasty structures, while other buildings date to the Ming and Qing periods. The surviving complex includes the mountain gate, main hall, offering pavilion, east side hall, and Dasheng Pagoda, along with Tang-era sutra pillars and Northern Song stone carvings. The temple faces south, measuring 20 meters east-west and 18 meters north-south, covering 360 square meters. Though small, its layout is harmonious and well-proportioned. Built on a raised terrace, the temple features towering pagodas amidst pine and cypress trees. The main hall, with a single-eave hip-and-gable roof, has three bays wide and four rafters deep, showcasing early architectural craftsmanship. Its gently sloping roof, deep eaves, glazed tiles, and elegantly carved brackets reflect refined design. In front of the Mahavira Hall stands a square Ming Dynasty offering pavilion supported by four stone pillars. An octagonal Tang-era sutra pillar (747 AD) nearby depicts graceful musicians and attendants. Four stone pillars bear a poetic quatrain: *"Mist veils the pagoda, smoke cloaks the temple; dusk bells echo, night tides murmur. Towers glow crimson at heaven's edge; layered peaks pierce emerald clouds."* The Dasheng Pagoda (commonly called Qinglong Pagoda) rises 17 meters west of the hall. This seven-story octagonal brick pagoda imitates wooden tower designs, with hollow lower levels and solid upper tiers. Its tapered form, intricate bracketing, and eight iron-chained guardian statues at the summit exemplify artistic mastery. Fifty-six wind-activated iron bells hang from its corners. Folklore claims the pagoda seals a bottomless cave linked to the Zhuozhang River—believed to be the phoenix's throat—thus protecting the region. Originally a village shrine, Yuanqi Temple was long closed to the public despite its national status, requiring advance contact for access. Recently, the Lucheng District Cultural Museum announced its official opening starting April 28. Visitors are invited to explore this millennium-old sanctuary's unique charm! **Hours:** 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM) **Admission:** ¥20/person (discounts for eligible pass holders). Combine your visit with other national treasures along the Zhuozhang River for a journey through southern Taihang's history.