Gongzhu Temple

Welcome to Gongzhu Temple, also known as Princess Temple, located in Xingyuan Township of Fanshi County, Shanxi, China. This Buddhist temple has a rich history dating back to the 4th century during the Northern Wei dynasty. Legend has it that Princess Chengxin, the fourth daughter of Emperor Wencheng, built the original temple. The temple is a provincial key cultural preservation unit designated by the Shanxi Provincial Government on August 18, 1986. It was also listed among the sixth batch of "Major National Historical and Cultural Sites in Shanxi" by the State Council of China on May 25, 2006. The entire complex faces south and is situated along the central axis. Visitors will first enter through the Shanmen, followed by the Second Hall, Mahavira Hall, and Back Hall. The Mahavira Hall still preserves the architectural style of the Ming dynasty with a single-eave overhanging gable roof with a 35-centimeter high base. The inner walls are painted with frescos covering over 90 square meters. Inside the Mahavira Hall, visitors will find thirty Ming dynasty statues. In the middle stands Sakyamuni, with statues of Amitabha and Bhaisajyaguru on the left and right sides respectively. In front of Sakyamuni stand Ananda and Kassapa Buddha on the left and right. The statues of Eighteen Arhats sit on the seats before both sides of the gable walls. Gongzhu Temple is a must-visit destination for those interested in Chinese history and culture. The temple's rich history and stunning architecture make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Location: Fanshi County

Architectural style: Chinese architecture

Source: Wikimedia