Baopu Daoyuan, Daoist temple at West Lake, Hangzhou, China
Baopu Daoyuan is a Daoist temple on the northern shore of West Lake that combines multiple buildings with different functions and designs. The complex includes spaces arranged for religious instruction, meditation, and the daily life of resident monks and nuns.
This site has roots reaching back to the early Tang period when it emerged as a sacred center for Daoist practice and learning. Over centuries the temple underwent rebuilding and restoration that shaped its current layout and buildings.
The temple functions as a living religious site where followers make offerings and chant sacred texts in daily practice. Visitors can observe incense burning and hear bells that mark the rhythm of worship throughout the day.
The temple is accessible during daylight hours and visitors can wander through the buildings and watch daily routines unfold. Those interested can ask resident practitioners about meditation practices or learn more about the teachings followed at the site.
The temple connects to Ge Hong, an early medieval scholar whose alchemical work was documented at this location. The site preserves memory of this tradition and continues to draw those curious about the history of healing practices and natural philosophy.
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