Shilian Temple in Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang
Introduction
Shilian Temple, located in Shuhe (束河), is steeped in legend. According to local lore, there is a cave on Shilian Mountain (石莲山) that resembles the wide-open mouth of a tiger, which the villagers consider to be an ominous sign. To ward off this perceived bad luck, they built a temple at the cave’s entrance, naming it Shilian Temple.
The colorful prayer flags in front of the temple dance wildly in the wind, while plants resembling lotus flowers grow abundantly along the stone walls from the foot of the mountain to the temple’s sides, creating a magical atmosphere. Climbing up to Shilian Temple provides a breathtaking view of Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇), making it a great place for reflection and appreciation of the history.
During the Republican era, many people gathered here at night to read by the fire, giving rise to the term “Shilian Night Reading” (石莲夜读).
Location
Chinese Name: 石莲寺
Geographical Location: Shilian Lane, Shuhe Ancient Town, Gucheng District, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, China (云南省丽江市古城区束河古镇石莲巷)
Historical Significance
Shilian Temple is situated on the west mountain of Songyun Village (松云村), on Shilian Mountain. The cliff walls contain natural rock caves that look like a tiger’s mouth, directly facing the village. Villagers deemed this to be unlucky, prompting the construction of Shilian Temple in the early years of the Qing Dynasty to block the “tiger’s mouth.” In the early Republican period, a private school was established here, and after the May Fourth Movement (五四运动), a formal school was founded. In the 1930s, night schools were held, and many villagers received an education here, igniting their intellectual fire. This is why it earned the nickname “Shilian Night Reading,” making it one of the eight scenic spots of Shuhe.
With its elevated and open terrain, Shilian Temple became a favorite spot for literati and poets to appreciate the view, though it was unfortunately destroyed during the Cultural Revolution (文革).
Scenic Features
As you walk to the foot of the mountain, you will be astonished by the sight of lotus-like plants growing on the cliffs, with their leaves spreading outwards like petals. Despite the rocky and barren nature of the cliff, these miraculous plants thrive here, embodying a spirit of devotion as they bloom. It is believed that Shilian Temple was named for these unique plants. The strong winds whip through the area, causing the prayer flags in front of the temple to flutter wildly, mirroring the passionate sentiments in my heart.
Regrettably, under the brilliant sunlight of June in Shuhe, my footsteps echo like those of a passerby rather than a homecoming. Shilian Temple is a perfect place for nostalgia and contemplation, with the ancient town of Shuhe laid out before me, quiet and peaceful, much like the little castle in my heart.
Environment and Architecture
Although Shilian Temple is relatively small, the environment is exceptionally tranquil. The architectural style of this temple differs from that of many Yunnan ethnic minority buildings and is more akin to structures found in inland regions. The lush greenery surrounding the temple adds to its charm, and colorful banners often adorn the temple entrance, creating an air of mystery.
While Shilian Temple may be considered an ancient structure, its wear and tear add to its unique charm. The mottled walls and ancient eaves tell tales of time, seemingly pausing at this moment, instilling a sense of calm within visitors.
This site offers a stunning view of Shuhe Ancient Town, making it a prime spot for reflection and historical appreciation. After hearing about Shilian Temple, do you feel a sense of longing to visit? For those interested, this could be a wonderful stop on your journey, and I believe you will leave with cherished memories.
How to Get There
To reach Shilian Temple in Shuhe Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or a local bus from Lijiang City (丽江). The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. If you prefer to drive, follow the signs to Shuhe Ancient Town and look for Shilian Lane.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Shilian Temple are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the beautiful lighting for photography.
- Photography: Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of Shuhe Ancient Town and the surrounding landscape.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting the temple, be respectful of local traditions and customs, especially around prayer flags and offerings.
- Bring Water and Snacks: There are limited facilities, so it’s wise to carry water and some snacks.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes as there may be some climbing involved to reach the temple.
