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Traveling through centuries of history, step into the oldest spiritual sanctuary in Taoyuan—Shoushanyan Guanyin Temple, established in the seventh year of the Qianlong era during the Qing Dynasty (AD 1742). With over 280 years of history, it was originally named *Lingding Temple* but later renamed by Emperor Qianlong himself. Beyond its thriving incense offerings and status as a city-designated cultural landmark, this temple was also selected among the "Top 100 Religious Sites of Taiwan," making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience its cultural charm. Unique Guanyin imagery and a grand pantheon of deities The main hall enshrines Guanyin Bodhisattva in an uncommon male form wearing a crown, a stark contrast to the familiar female Guanyin image. Also enshrined here are Bodhisattva Puxian, Bodhisattva Manjushri, Lord Guan, King Yama, the Twelve Earthly Gods, and the Eighteen Arhats. The rear hall, Lingxiao Hall, houses the Jade Emperor, Queen Mother of Heaven, and the Three Sovereigns. A single visit brings blessings from all deities—devout hearts shall be rewarded! **Must-see highlights:九龙壁 (Nine Dragon Wall), 神黿 (Celestial Tortoise), and 道仙鹤 (Elegant Crane)** The treasure-trove **Nine Dragon Wall** made of glazed ceramics at the temple entrance stands as Taiwan’s largest outdoor ceramic art piece, hand-molded by the National Treasure Craftsman **Liu Mingwu**. The nine dragons depict dynamic energy and grandeur. In the lotus pond, the **Celestial Tortoise** takes the form of a dragon-headed tortoise, symbolizing longevity and blessings. Pairing it with graceful cranes, rock formations, and pond landscaping, this iconic spot captures the hearts of worshippers and tourists alike! **Treasures of history narrate stories—antique wooden plaques and stone carvings deserve closer inspection** The temple preserves multiple Qing-era antiques and historical relics, including the "Cifan Guangji" plaque gifted by Hadanga and the "Limitless Dharma" plaque by Lin Wenzhua, documenting the temple’s reconstruction history. On display nearby are a stone incense burner and cloud-patterned wooden plank from the Jiaqing era, quietly waiting for travelers to linger and savor the layers of history. **Bustling temple festivals and the most beloved "Peaceful Turtle" activity** On the fourteenth day of the first lunar month for the "Seeking Peaceful Turtle" ritual, on the nineteenth day of the second lunar month for Guanyin’s birthday, and on the nineteenth day of the sixth lunar month celebrating Guanyin’s attainment of enlightenment, Shoushyan Guanyin Temple transforms into a festival hub. The "Seeking Peaceful Turtle" event, symbolizing a year of smooth sailing and safety, attracts the greatest numbers of devotees and stands as a classic example of blending religious tradition with local culture. **Spring-blooming cherry paradise within the temple’s rear garden** Behind the temple lies **Shoushyan Garden**, a hidden gem for cherry viewing. In spring, delicate pink mountain cherries and Yoshino cherries blossom in full splendor. Framed by the ancient temple, stone bridges, and curved pavilions, the scenery creates a poetic spring atmosphere. Strolling among the cherry blossoms in the gentle spring breeze instantly transports visitors into a fairytale realm, one of Taoyuan’s most enchanting spring relaxation spots.