Daxingshan Temple, Buddhist temple in Yanta District, Xi'an, China
Daxingshan Temple is a Buddhist complex in Yanta District organized along a central axis with multiple prayer halls and courtyards. The buildings include the main gate, the Four Heavenly Kings Hall, the Mahavira Hall, and the Guanyin Hall, arranged in the classical style of Chinese temples.
Founded in 266 by Emperor Wu of the Western Jin Dynasty as Zunshan Temple, the site later became a major center for Buddhist sutra translations. The complex grew significantly during the Tang Dynasty when it served as a key location for spreading Buddhist texts throughout China.
Three prominent monks - Śubhakarasiṃha, Vajrabodhi, and Amoghavajra - shaped this complex as a major center for Chinese Esoteric Buddhism. Visitors can still sense their influence in how the buildings are arranged and decorated today.
The temple sits near the Xiaozhai business district and is easily reached by subway or bus from central Xi'an. Visitors should allow time to walk through the different courtyards and halls to fully experience the layout.
The Guanyin Hall houses a Ming Dynasty wood-carved statue of the Thousand-Armed Guanyin, a striking example of detailed craftsmanship from that era. Ancient cypress trees scattered across the grounds add to the layered feel of the site and connect visitors to centuries of history.
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