Prince temple

Known formally as Fuzhen Temple, the Prince Temple is a breathtaking ancient architectural complex built on a dramatic 60-degree steep slope of Lion Peak. Praised by modern experts as a classic example of architecture ingeniously utilizing steep, treacherous terrain, this site is an engineering masterpiece.

Backed by the towering Lion Mountain, the temple is flanked by the beautiful Tianchi waterfall Wudang Mountain on the right, and the historic plank road of the Eighteen Bends on the left. From afar, the complex resembles a pristine lotus emerging from the water; up close, it commands the presence of a magnificent, fortified city.

The Architectural Ingenuity

Ancient architectural masters brilliantly adapted to the mountain’s challenging topography. They managed to create a massive site covering 16,000 square meters, constructing over 200 individual halls and rooms. This precise layout gave rise to several famous architectural and landscape wonders:

• Four Gates in One Li: A brilliant display of spatial and defensive design.

• Nine-Bend Yellow River Wall: A stunning, curving boundary wall that perfectly follows the mountain’s contours.

• One Pillar Supporting Twelve Beams: Located inside the Wuyun Building, this is a legendary feat of ancient structural engineering.

• Ten Miles of Osmanthus Fragrance: Lush osmanthus trees surround the complex, filling the air with their signature scent.

Exploring the Taizipo Scenic Area

The Prince Temple serves as the centerpiece of the greater Taizipo scenic area Wudang. The entire architectural complex of Taizipo was meticulously designed to reflect the legendary story of the Taoist deity Zhenwu’s cultivation.

Visitors exploring this sacred area will encounter a rich collection of cultural landmarks and natural wonders:

• Sacred Halls & Pavilions: The area is home to Huilong Temple, Laojuntang, Baxian Temple, and the exquisitely shaped well pavilion of Mozhen Well (also known as Chunyang Palace).

• Ancient Relics & Art: Discover beautiful murals depicting “Zhenwu’s Cultivation” alongside rare displays of “Orthoceras”, a Paleozoic marine invertebrate fossil.

• Dramatic Landscapes: Marvel at the hundred-zhang cascade of the Tianchi waterfall Wudang mountain, the serene Dilei Pool, and the oddly shaped rocks scattered through Jiudu Gorge.

• Historic Trails: Walk the ancient paths of the Upper and Lower Eighteen Bends that flutter along the mountain like ribbons, leading up to the steep and magnificent Yuxu Rock.