This ancient Buddhist temple was
built somewhere between 1023 and 1032 AD. It is dedicated to Jiyu, the second son of King
Wu of the Zhou Dynasty.
Originally constructed as a site for worshipping ancestors, the temple gradually became a
retreat for emperors and princes.
The temple grounds and surrounding countryside are beautiful. It is easy to let several
hours slip by exploring the numerous pagodas and rock gardens, in addition to the major
structures such as the Mirror Terrace. The first major structure on passing through the
gates, this Ming-Dynasty building was used as an open-air theater.
Towards the rear of the grounds is Goddess Mother Hall, the oldest wooden building in the
city and one of the most popular among visitors.
Inside stand 42 Song Dynasty clay figures of maidservants surrounding a large seated
statue that is said to be the mother of Prince Shuyu of the Zhou Dynasty.
The grounds are flourishing with all forms of greenery including hibiscus flowers, willow
trees and a Zhou cypress that is said to have been growing at an angle of 30 degrees for
the past 900 years.
Location: At the source of the Jin River by Xuanwang Hill, 25 kilometers (16 miles)
outside of Taiyuan. Open daily 8am-6pm. Bus number 308 from the railway station reaches
the temple in less than an hour.
Cost: Entry to the park RMB5. Entry to the temple RMB30. Bus RMB1.
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