Yong'an Temple (Hunyuan)

Welcome to the Yong'an Temple in Huyuan County, located in the northeast of Shanxi Province. This temple is one of the national key cultural relics protection units in China. The Yong'an Temple was first built during the Jin Dynasty but was destroyed during a war. In the early Yuan Dynasty, Gao Ding, the commander of the Yong'an Army, invited Master Guiyun to be the abbot and rebuild the temple. In the second year of the Yuan Dynasty (1315), Gao Pu repaired the temple again, and it has been repaired by successive dynasties ever since. The temple is famous for its wall paintings. The main hall of the temple is 24 meters long and 15 meters wide, with a width of five bays and a depth of three bays. The single-eave roof is covered with yellow, green, and blue glazed tiles, with yellow as the main color and flower-ridge decorations. The central ridge is adorned with a precious pagoda, and the two ends are decorated with high-raised bird beaks. The murals inside the hall cover an area of 180 square meters, depicting figures from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, with a total of 812 characters. As you enter the temple, you will be greeted by the magnificent architecture and intricate details of the temple's design. The temple's history and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture. To fully appreciate the beauty of the temple, it is recommended that you take your time to explore each section of the temple. You can start by admiring the exterior of the temple, taking in the intricate details of the roof and walls. Then, step inside the main hall and marvel at the stunning murals that cover the walls. Take note of the different characters depicted in the murals and try to understand their significance in Chinese culture. After exploring the main hall, you can visit the other buildings in the temple complex, such as the bell tower and the drum tower. These buildings are also beautifully designed and offer a glimpse into the daily life of the monks who once lived here. In conclusion, the Yong'an Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and intricate wall paintings make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Location: Shanxi

Source: Wikimedia