Haikou Yuchan Palace (Southern Taoism Ancestral Temple)

Located at the foot of Wenbi Peak in Ding'an County, Hainan Province, Haikou Yuchan Palace is the final resting place of Bai Yuchan, the de facto founder of Southern Taoism and one of the five patriarchs of the Southern School. It is revered as the "Ancestral Temple of the Southern School" within Taoism. Below is a detailed introduction to Yuchan Palace: Historical Background Yuchan Palace is the only legally recognized Taoist temple in Hainan and the largest Taoist architectural complex in the world. Bai Yuchan was a renowned Taoist priest during the Southern Song Dynasty. He traveled extensively throughout his life, ultimately choosing to seclude himself at Wenbi Peak, where he founded the Southern School of Taoism. Architectural Layout Built along the contours of Wenbi Peak, Yuchan Palace's central axis follows the natural slope of the southern side, with the peak's giant rocks and highest point serving as a backdrop. The architectural layout embodies the Taoist philosophy of "following nature." The complex comprises nearly 20 halls and temples, including the main hall, Yuchan Pavilion, Ziyang Xinglin Hall, Zixian Cuixu Hall, Sanqing Altar, Yaowang Hall, Tianhou Temple, Wenchang Pavilion, Yue Lao Temple, and Yuanchen Hall. Main Halls • Yuchan Pavilion: The main hall, dedicated to Bai Yuchan, one of the five patriarchs of the Southern School. The octagonal pavilion features flying eaves and double eaves illuminated by lights, creating a nighttime spectacle reminiscent of the "eight-cornered radiance" described in Taoist scriptures. • Ziyang Xinglin Hall: Dedicated to Zhang Boduan, the first patriarch of the Southern School, also known as Ziyang Zhenren, and Shi Tai, known as Xinglin Zhenren. • Zixian Cuixu Hall: Dedicated to Xue Shi, the third patriarch of the Southern School, known as Zixian Zhenren, and Chen Nan, the fourth patriarch, known as Cuixu Zhenren. • Other Halls: These include the Yaowang Hall, dedicated to Shennong, Sun Simiao, and Li Shizhen; the God of Wealth Hall, dedicated to Guan Yu, Liu Haichan, and Zhao Gongming; and the Wenchang Pavilion, dedicated to Wenchang Dijun and Kui Dou Xingjun. Cultural Significance Yuchan Palace is not only a center for the dissemination of Taoist culture but also an important cultural symbol of Hainan. Every year on the 15th day of the third lunar month, the birthday of Bai Yuchan, tens of thousands of believers from both sides of the Taiwan Strait come to pay their respects. In addition, Yuchan Palace actively promotes traditional cultural education and disseminates Taoist culture. Tourist Information • Address: At the foot of Wenbi Peak, Ding'an County, Hainan Province. • Transportation: Accessible by car or public transport from Haikou to Wenbi Peak Scenic Area in Ding'an County. • Opening Hours: Generally open all day. It is recommended to check specific times in advance. [Hainan Ding'an County Yuchan Palace]() With its rich cultural heritage and unique architectural style, Yuchan Palace attracts numerous tourists and Taoist devotees, making it a must-see cultural attraction in Hainan.