Exploring the Mystique: The Zen Spirit and Golden Poetry of Zhenji Temple on Wuyun Mountain

Hidden deep within the misty forests of Jiuxi in Hangzhou, Zhenji Temple on Wuyun Mountain is a sanctuary that blends history and nature. Ascend the winding stone steps, flanked by tea gardens and ancient trees, and after about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, you'll arrive at the mountaintop where the ancient temple with its vermilion eaves awaits. In front of the temple stands a 1,416-year-old ginkgo tree, its golden canopy resembling a radiant umbrella. During autumn, its fallen leaves carpet the courtyard, creating a dreamlike golden landscape. Inside the temple, the Five Blessings Hall enshrines the Five Deities of Wealth, believed to bring fortune from all directions—east, south, west, north, and center—drawing countless devotees seeking blessings. Ancient wells and stone inscriptions silently recount the temple's storied past, while the legend of "Finding the Five Auspicious Clouds" adds an air of mystery. It is said that if you find all five auspicious cloud carvings along the stone path, your wishes will come true. A morning visit is highly recommended, as the temple shrouded in mist, accompanied by the resonant sound of bells, offers a serene escape from urban chaos. The interplay of golden leaves and the temple's eaves creates a picturesque scene. Remember to bring your own water, as the scenic mountain path, though enchanting, lacks convenience stores!