Rain Falls on Jing Mountain Temple | 48 Hours of Zen at Wuta Xinshe
| 48 Hours of Zen at Wuta Xinshe.
Escaping to a mountain homestay on a rainy day sounds delightful, doesn't it? This time, I chose Wuta Xinshe (Jing Mountain Temple Branch) at the foot of Jing Mountain Temple and experienced the slow life of a rainy mountain retreat.
1. Arrival & Check-in:
The homestay is nestled on the mountainside, its white walls and black tiles standing out vividly against the lush green forest. As I drove up, the friendly butler came out to greet me.
The room features a minimalist wooden design—clean and simple. The highlight is the large floor-to-ceiling window framing a view of bamboo groves and mountain scenery. Sitting on the tatami by the window, sipping tea while watching raindrops trickle down the glass, the bamboo forest shrouded in mist—utterly serene, instantly calming the mind.
2. Mountain Moments in the Rain:
The homestay thoughtfully provided complimentary traditional-style outfits for guests to wear while exploring or taking photos. I slipped into one and wandered along the bluestone path toward the back mountain.
The light rain freshened the air, carrying the scent of moss and earth. The old camphor trees glistened from the rain, while hydrangeas bowed under the weight of droplets, their petals sparkling.
As I strolled, I spotted a turquoise lizard near a stone lantern! It curled up in a crevice to shelter from the rain, peeking out cautiously before darting away at the slightest movement—adorably skittish.
3. Nighttime Tranquility:
The temperature difference between the room and outside fogged up the windows, leaving only distant pinpricks of light visible through the rainy night—a cozy sight.
The homestay’s shared space includes a scripture-copying room, softly lit with warm yellow lights in the evening. Watching guests sit cross-legged, quietly transcribing Buddhist texts, the ink’s fragrance mingling with the cool post-rain air—the ambiance was perfect.
4. Post-Rain Surprises:
After two days, the rain paused briefly on the second morning! Sunlight peeked through the clouds, illuminating the entire mountain with vibrant energy.
Bamboo wind chimes on the terrace tinkled in the breeze, and water droplets from the eaves glittered in the sunlight.
5. Departure & Reflections:
At checkout, the butler gifted me a blessed 18-bead bracelet from Jing Mountain Temple—a meaningful keepsake.
Driving downhill, I glanced back at the white homestay fading into the mist and suddenly understood its name, *Wuta Xinshe* ("No-Other Heart Lodge"). Perhaps it’s a reminder to leave life’s chaos behind at the mountain’s edge, allowing true relaxation and a chance to listen to one’s inner voice.
Quick takeaways from my stay:
- **Rainy-day magic**: The sound of rain, mist, and lush greenery made the mountains even quieter and more poetic.
- **Proximity to Jing Mountain Temple**: Just a 10-minute drive, with fewer crowds in the rain for a more peaceful visit.
- **Comfortable ambiance**: Clean rooms, stunning window views, and thoughtfully designed shared spaces.
- **Thoughtful touches**: Free traditional outfits for photos, attentive service, and heartfelt gifts.
- **Perfect for unwinding**: A place that truly slows you down and quiets the mind.
If you’re looking for a serene escape—especially if you love the mood of rainy mountains—Wuta Xinshe’s Jing Mountain Temple branch is a fantastic choice!