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Fuzhou Golden Hill TempleIt was the most fascinating temple in the middle of a riverWe had an early start this morning. After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel my cousin's husband took my sister, Theresa, and myself on a tour of some of the highlights just outside and also within the Fuzhou city limit. We decided to live like locals by taking a local city bus. Besides, at 1 or 2 RMB you cannot beat the price. After consulting the bus sign we took a 15-minutes bus ride on #810 to Hung River. The bus was clean and efficient. We were even able to find seats to sit down after some shoppers got off the bus at downtown to go shopping on this sunny Sunday morning. We then walked for about 30 minutes to get to the river. The walk tired me; however, we were well rewarded. The Golden Hill Temple is located in the middle of the Hung River. It was restored and re-dedicated in 1983. It is about 700 years old and was built in the Song Dynasty. Sometimes it's called the "Floating Temple" because it's built on a reef in the middle of the river. There was a boat that ferried us across the river for a nominal cost. It was intriguing to see the boatman propelling the small wooden boat across the river with a long bamboo stick. The temple is relatively dainty and quaint. I'm now used to the fact that most historical sights in China, whether it's a temple or a private garden, is all freshly painted and restored. This place is no different. Though the temple may not be authentically restored; however, the temple is lovely to appreciate. My sister even burned an incense stick in order to pray for the good health of one of our relatives who has fallen ill recently. On the boat trip back I was touched by the laughter from these teenagers who were trying to catch some creatures at the edge of the river. How fun! We then hailed a taxi back to town to continue to explore this intriguing city. More information ( http://goasia.about.com/library/weekly/blfuzhoua.htm )
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