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Tienyuan Temple is located on the northwestern slope of the Datun mountain range, about 5 km from downtown Tamsui. Founded in the 1970s, its main hall enshrines Wuji Laozu, with the Jade Emperor as the principal deity; in 1992 the “Wuji Zhenyuan Heavenly Altar” was added—a five-storey sanctuary rising 200 feet, its circular structure 108 feet in diameter, majestic and imposing. Each level honors the ancient buddhas of the Wuji realm. During cherry-blossom season the grand altar and the flowers reflect one another, making a visit especially worthwhile. Built along the contours of the land, the Tienyuan complex sits on the hilly foothills of Mount Mantian, facing the sea and radiating grandeur. Stairways that follow the slope give the buildings layered depth, lending the temple an even more solemn and stately air. The complex is divided into three main areas: the Wuji Tienyuan Temple at the foot of the mountain, the Heavenly Altar on the mid-slope, and the rear-hill garden at the summit—each with its own character, every step a new vista. Cherry Blossoms in the Spring Breeze When spring breezes blow, the temple’s cherries quietly open, ushering in the most beautiful season of the year. Most trees are planted in the rear-hill garden and around the Heavenly Altar, with different varieties blooming at slightly different times. The hill cherries in the rear garden flower from late January to mid-February; the area around the altar is dominated by pale-pink Yoshino cherries that peak about a month later, drawing the biggest crowds. At night the altar is lit, its glow shimmering through the blossoms—an altogether different enchantment.