The Buddhist Backyard on the Jialing River: Nanchong Xishan and the Legend of Wanfo

The "Green Lung" Overlooking the Jialing River

1.Located in the Shunqing District of Nanchong: City, Sichuan Province, the Nanchong Xishan Scenic Area stands as a verdant sanctuary perched atop the Xishan (West Mountain). Situated just 5 kilometers from the city center, this National 3A Tourist Attraction covers a core area of approximately 10 square kilometers, with its main peak rising to an altitude of 582 meters. Known as the "Buddhist Backyard on the Jialing River" and "Nanchong’s Oxygen Bar," Xishan offers a perfect blend of natural ecology and deep-rooted cultural heritage. It serves as the city's premier vantage point; standing on the summit, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Jialing River winding like a jade belt around the city, with three majestic bridges spanning the waters and the urban skyline glistening in the sunset. The scenic area is renowned for its high forest coverage, ancient trees, and fresh air rich in negative ions, making it a favorite retreat for locals seeking hiking, leisure, and spiritual solace amidst the "mountains, temples, and river" landscape.

A Millennium of Buddhist Heritage: Wanfo Temple

2.The spiritual heart of Xishan is the Wanfo: Temple (Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas). Its history traces back to the Southern Dynasties under Emperor Wu of Liang (6th century AD), originally known as Xihua Temple after the emperor dreamt of Buddha's light shining upon the mountain. Over the centuries, particularly during the Tang and Song dynasties, it grew into a prominent Buddhist center in northern Sichuan. The current complex is a magnificent display of architectural hierarchy, built along the mountain contours with golden-roofed halls rising layer by layer. The Mahavira Hall (Great Hero Hall) enshrines a copper statue of Sakyamuni Buddha alongside tens of thousands of smaller Buddha statues, creating an atmosphere of immense solemnity. Legends suggest that the famous Tang monk Xuanzang (Tripitaka) once preached here on his return from the West, infusing the site with Mahayana traditions.

The Wonder of "Three Religions in One"

A unique cultural phenomenon within the Wanfo Temple complex is the Sanjiao Hall (Hall of Three Religions). Here, visitors can witness a rare sight in Chinese religious architecture: statues of the Buddha, Laozi (Taoism), and Confucius (Confucianism) are worshipped together in harmony within the same hall. This coexistence reflects the profound cultural tolerance and fusion that characterized the Jialing River region, a hub of diverse ethnic and philosophical exchanges since the Tang and Song dynasties. The temple also houses a Black Dragon Hall, dedicated to the dragon spirit believed to reside in the deep pools of Xishan and protect the temple from disasters. This blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements, alongside local folk beliefs like the Black Dragon legend, offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual inclusivity of Sichuan.

Scenic Wonders and Literary Footprints

Beyond its temples, Xishan is a treasure trove of natural and literary gems. The mountain is dotted with karst formations and mysterious caves. The Immortal's Cave (Xianren Dong), with its crystalline stalactites, is said to be where the Taoist master Zhang Daoling once practiced alchemy. The Yixiantian (One Line Sky) offers a thrilling narrow passage where the sky is reduced to a slender thread between mossy cliffs. Literary history is etched into the landscape as well; the Xishan Stele Forest contains numerous stone engravings, including poems by the Ming Dynasty scholar Yang Shen, who praised the view: "Xishan Wanfo overlooks the vast river and sky, capturing the autumn of Nanchong ancient city in one glance." During festivals like the Dragon Boat Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, the area comes alive with temple fairs and the romantic tradition of floating river lanterns on the Jialing River, praying for the "Black Dragon's" protection and a bountiful harvest.