A Stunning Sight: Hezhang Rock Scenic Area

Hezhang Rock Scenic Area is located in Xidalong, Shuangxi Town, Shunchang County, Nanping City, Fujian Province, approximately 2.5 kilometers from the county center. The area is named after its mountain shape resembling two hands clasped together, symbolizing unity and harmony. The main peak stands at an altitude of 551.7 meters, overlooking Shunchang County and its surrounding landscapes. Known for its breathtaking views, the area is often referred to as "Hezhang Wengyu." The scenic area combines Buddhist culture with natural beauty and historical significance. Main Attractions Hezhang Rock Grottoes (Ten Thousand Buddha Grottoes) Initiated in 2003 by Master Shi Benyuan, the abbot of Xian Temple, the grottoes were carved into the hard granite mountain. Stretching 173 meters in length and reaching a height of 19 meters at its tallest point, the grottoes are planned to feature 26,000 Buddha statues, with over 10,000 already completed. The grottoes include various sections such as the front hall, main hall, rear passage, chanting hall, and meditation caves. The main hall can accommodate over 2,000 people, and the central pillar grotto is adorned with statues of the Five Dhyani Buddhas and 1,300 lotus petal Buddha figures. Praised as "Southeast Asia's premier grotto," it is the largest modern Buddhist grotto complex in southern China. Xian Temple Originally built in the 26th year of the Yuan Dynasty's Zhizheng era (1366), the temple has undergone multiple renovations throughout history, with its latest reconstruction in 1988. It now serves as the headquarters of the Shunchang County Buddhist Association. The temple houses nearly 10,000 Buddhist scriptures, including the Qianlong edition of the "Tripitaka," and features the "Pure Enlightenment Library." Natural and Cultural Highlights Round Pool Reflection: The mirror-like water surface reflects the surrounding mountains, symbolizing harmony between heaven and earth. Salt and Rice God Cave: A legendary site where ancient people prayed for abundant harvests. Ten Thousand Buddha Cliff: Planned to feature 10,000 "Buddha" characters written by historical monks and calligraphers. Other attractions: Guest-welcoming pine trees, Immortal Gathering Platform, Flying Divine Boat, and Tiger's Open Mouth. Cultural Features Buddhist Art: The grottoes blend northern and southern carving styles, showcasing diverse Buddha figures such as the Fighting Buddha (Sun Wukong) and Thousand-Armed Guanyin, with some inspired by the art of Dunhuang's Mogao Caves. Monkey King Culture: Shunchang is considered the ancestral home of Sun Wukong from "Journey to the West." The grottoes include a Fighting Buddha cave depicting the story of the pilgrimage to the West. Visitor Information Opening Hours: Open all day (specific hours for Xian Temple and grottoes can be confirmed with the scenic area). Admission: Free, though some experiences may require donations. Transportation: Take Bus No. 9 or a taxi from Shunchang County, approximately a 10-minute ride. Best Seasons: Spring and summer for cool retreats; autumn and winter for cloud seas and sunrises. Hezhang Rock Scenic Area is not only a Buddhist sanctuary but also a destination where nature and culture intertwine, making it ideal for pilgrimage, sightseeing, and photography.