Xianleguan Daoist Temple in Tengchong County, Baoshan

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Chinese Name:腾冲市仙乐观
English Name: Xianleguan Daoist Temple in Tengchong County, Baoshan

Xianleguan Daoist Temple (腾冲市仙乐观) is located by the Die Shui River (叠水河) in Tengchong County (腾冲县), Baoshan City (保山市), Yunnan Province (云南省). The temple’s unique features include a stone turtle under the bridge, symbolizing the fusion and exchange of cultural influences between inland China and the border regions.

Historical Background

Origins and Construction

The Xianleguan Temple was originally built in the 8th year of the Guangxu Era (光绪八年) during the Qing Dynasty (清朝), which corresponds to 1882. Although the architecture is relatively modest, the temple’s couplet (a pair of traditional Chinese poetic inscriptions) has puzzled many scholars over the years. According to legend, the couplet was written by a Daoist priest from Mount Qingcheng (青城山) in Sichuan Province (四川省), who passed through Tengchong while traveling. The temple was built in the area where the Die Shui River flows, with the sound of its waterfall echoing like divine music. This beautiful setting inspired the temple’s name Xianleguan (仙乐观), meaning “Temple of Heavenly Music.”

The temple has several halls, including the Three Pure Ones Hall (三清殿) and the Queen Mother Hall (王母殿), which represent the blending of inland Chinese culture with the unique border region culture.

Temple Architecture and Culture

The Xianleguan Temple is centrally located in Tengchong County, surrounded by scenic spots. To the right of the temple lies a national 2A-level natural waterfall, created by volcanic eruptions. Also nearby is the Tai Chi Bridge (太极桥), under which there is a stone turtle (石龟).

During the Republic of China Era (民国时期), a local landowner named Wang broke open the stone turtle to harness its hydraulic power for grinding rice. Inside the stone turtle, a natural Tai Chi and Bagua pattern (太极八卦图) was found. Afterward, the bridge and turtle were restored.

The main hall, Queen Mother Hall, embodies the fusion of inland Chinese and border region cultures. Local residents honor and worship various deities here, including Lü Zu (吕祖), Wenchang (文昌), and Qiu Zu (邱组).

Notable Features

Scenic and Cultural Significance

Stone Turtle: Under the Tai Chi Bridge, the stone turtle is not only a natural landmark but also an integral part of local folklore.

Natural Waterfall: A volcanic eruption created the stunning 2A-level waterfall, adding to the temple’s picturesque setting.

Couplet and Daoist Deities: The temple features a special couplet that references the Eight Immortals (八仙). It humorously details their adventures, such as Zhongli Quan (钟离点石) shaking his fan and Guo Lao (果老) riding his donkey across Zhao Bridge (赵桥). The inscription beautifully reflects the Daoist traditions and humor found in local culture.

Visitor Information

Address

Baofeng Road, Tengchong County, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province.

Temple Type

Historical Architecture and Daoist Temple.

Suggested Visit Duration

0.5 hours.

Entrance Fee

Free Admission.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The temple can be visited year-round. However, visiting during the spring or autumn months offers the best weather and a more comfortable experience.

Nearby Attractions: While in the area, consider visiting the Tengchong Volcano (腾冲火山) and the Tengchong Hot Springs (腾冲热海), both of which are renowned for their natural beauty and cultural significance.