Puguang Temple, in Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China
Welcome to Puguang Temple, a Buddhist temple located in Yongding District of Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about this historical and cultural site. Puguang Temple was first built by a military official named Yong Jian in 1413, during the Ming dynasty. In 1733, during the Qing dynasty, a local official named Shi Cheng renovated and refurbished the temple. The current structure is based on the building principles of both dynasties and retains the traditional architectural style. The temple complex includes several halls such as Shanmen, Mahavira Hall, Hall of Four Heavenly Kings, Hall of Guanyin, Bell tower, Drum tower, Hall of Arhats, Dharma Hall, Dining Room, etc. The Shanmen hall has statues of Heng and Ha sitting on the seats before both sides. Under the eaves is a plaque with the Chinese characters "Mahavira Hall" written by former Venerable Master of the Buddhist Association of China Zhao Puchu. The Mahavira Hall enshrines the statues of Guanyin, Manjushri, and Samantabhadra. The Hall of Arhats houses statues of lifelike Eighteen Arhats with different looks and manners. A statue of Guanyin is enshrined in the Hall of Guanyin. Puguang Temple has gone through more than 10 rebuilds, with the latest maintenance being in 1989. Despite the numerous renovations, the temple has retained its original charm and beauty. According to the legend, there was once a white goat that led people to the temple. The goat was believed to be a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva, and it helped people find their way to the temple. This legend has made Puguang Temple a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. To visit Puguang Temple, you can take a bus or taxi from Zhangjiajie city center. The temple is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, and the admission fee is CNY 50 per person. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb within the temple complex. In conclusion, Puguang Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and religion. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and fascinating legend, it is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Location: Yongding District
Inception: 1733
Source: Wikimedia