Guandi Temple in Jiezhou: A Perfect Fusion of History and Architecture

For many travelers, human history and ancient architectural art are focal points of interest, and the Guandi Temple in Jiezhou is a destination not to be missed. This temple, which was originally built during the late Chen Dynasty and early Sui Dynasty (589 AD), has withstood the test of time for a millennium and remains well-preserved. It is the earliest-built, largest, highest-grade, and most completely preserved Guandi Temple in China. 🏛️ Highlights ☀️ The Sworn Brotherhood Archway As the most magnificent archway of the Guandi Temple, the Sworn Brotherhood Archway was built during the Ming Dynasty. The plaque reading 'Sworn Brotherhood Garden' was inscribed by Yan Rusi, the governor of Jiezhou during the Qianlong era. The three-part meteorite stone pillars here are believed to be the incarnation of Guandi. ☀️ The End Gate and Four Dragon Screen The Four Dragon Screen in front of the End Gate is a unique glazed tile screen made during the Ming Dynasty. It differs from the Nine Dragon Screen associated with the true dragon emperors, as Guan Yu was a mortal before being posthumously deified. The three interlocking iron pillars called 'Dangzhong' in front of the End Gate were bestowed by Emperor Yongzheng to remind 'civil officials to dismount from their sedans, and military officials to dismount from their horses'. ☀️ The Noon Gate and Imperial Book Tower The Noon Gate's roof features the most prestigious Wu Dian roof in ancient Chinese architecture, the only one of its kind in the temple. The Imperial Book Tower, originally named 'Bagua Tower', was renamed to commemorate the plaque 'Yi Bing Qian Kun' inscribed by Emperor Kangxi. ☀️ The Chongning Hall The stone dragon pillars in the corridor of the Chongning Hall are said to have been transported from the old palace of the Jin state. The plaques 'Shen Yong', 'Wan Shi Ren Ji', and 'Yi Bing Qian Kun' inside the hall were handwritten by Emperors Qianlong, Xianfeng, and Kangxi respectively, and are considered legendary. ☀️ The Main Hall and Spring and Autumn Pavilion The Main Hall displays iron and bronze cast Green Dragon Crescent Blades on both sides, and the incense table in front is said to be Guan Gong's whetstone. The Spring and Autumn Pavilion is the essence of the Guandi Temple, which has finally reopened after being closed for 7 years. The 'hanging beams and columns' and 'chrysanthemum caisson' inside are masterpieces of ancient architectural art. 📅 Travel Tips Visiting Time It is recommended to arrive in the afternoon to avoid the peak of the crowd, and take a quick reverse tour before closing, from the Four Dragon Screen to the Pheasant Gate, and the Noon Gate to capture the unpopulated beauty. Spring and Autumn Pavilion Visiting the Spring and Autumn Pavilion requires a separate fee of 30 yuan, and shoe covers, small flashlights, and electronic candles are provided. The 'hanging beams and columns' and 'chrysanthemum caisson' around the pavilion are excellent viewing points. Other Highlights The peony flowers in the garden are in full bloom, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos. In addition, Ming Dynasty cast iron figures and iron lions should not be missed, as they provide important evidence for the study of ancient costumes. Transportation Tips After exiting the garden from the side gate near the Noon Gate on the west side, it is a long walk back to the visitor parking lot. It is advisable to plan your route in advance to avoid unnecessary detours.