Pagoda of Huayan Temple, Buddhist pagoda in Weiqu Subdistrict, Xi'an, China
The Pagoda of Huayan Temple is a 43-meter-high wooden structure in Xi'an that stands as part of a larger temple complex with multiple buildings and spaces. The site includes a main prayer hall, areas dedicated to Buddhist texts, and several smaller structures that together form a functioning temple grounds.
The temple was founded during the Liao Dynasty and underwent major rebuilding during the Jin Dynasty, followed by further repairs in later periods. These different construction phases shaped the building and show how it evolved over many centuries.
The name comes from the Huayan school of Buddhism, and visitors today can see how people use the temple for prayer and worship. The decorated halls and sculptures reflect the spiritual practices that have centered on this place over many centuries.
The site allows visitors to explore multiple buildings and spaces spread across the grounds, offering a good way to understand the temple in its full context. It is practical to wear comfortable shoes, as there are some elevation changes and uneven paths when walking between different areas.
The underground section of the pagoda spans several hundred square meters and features an intricate wooden structure built entirely using traditional tenon and mortise joinery techniques. This hidden construction often surprises visitors and demonstrates the craft skill of ancient builders.
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