Great White Pagoda, Buddhist temple in Mount Wutai, China
The Great White Pagoda is a main complex with multiple buildings and halls organized around a central stupa. The white structure with its distinctive lime coating and layered levels forms the visible heart of the entire site.
The complex began in the early 14th century as a stupa project during a time of strong Tibetan-Chinese trade ties. The site was later expanded and rebuilt with added building groups that turned it into a larger pilgrimage center.
This temple served as a major center for Tibetan Buddhism in China and drew pilgrims from distant regions. Visitors can still sense this spiritual draw through the thoughtfully designed spaces and religious objects that shape the site today.
The grounds are larger than they first appear, so take time to explore all areas. Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately, as there are many stairs and varying elevation changes throughout.
The pagoda is decorated with hundreds of small copper bells that chime when the wind moves, creating distinctive sounds across the grounds. These bells contribute to a distinctive sensory experience as you move through the site.
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