[2025 Hongtong Attraction] Travel Guide for Guangsheng Temple (Updated Jan)

Linfen–Xinzhou–Datong, a six-day tour guide is here! Super practical tips to help you explore Shanxi. Save it now! -------------------- 🚗 Itinerary: Day 1: Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area—Lotus Town Visit the spectacular Hukou Waterfall and feel the grandeur of the Yellow River. Then head to Lotus Town and enjoy the fresh and natural rural scenery. Day 2: Guangsheng Temple—Hongdong Grand Locust Tree Experience the ancient Buddhist culture at Guangsheng Temple, then head to Hongdong Grand Locust Tree to trace your family history and experience the profound ancestor worship culture. Day 3: Mount Wutai—Wuye Temple—Hanging Temple—Daiwang Mansion Visit Mount Wutai and experience the solemnity and mystery of the Buddhist holy land. Visit Wuye Temple and feel the power of faith. Then explore the thrill and wonder of the Hanging Temple. Finally, visit Daiwang Mansion and savor the weight of history. Day 4: Yungang Grottoes—Yanmenguan Pass Visit Yungang Grottoes and admire the thousand-year-old Buddhist art treasures. Then head to Yanmenguan Pass and relive the grandeur and vicissitudes of the ancient frontier. Day 5: Taiyuan Ancient County—Pingyao Beef Museum—Pingyao Ancient City Stroll through Taiyuan Ancient County and experience the fusion of history and modernity. Visit Pingyao Beef Museum and learn about the culture behind the food. Finally, visit Pingyao Ancient City and experience the charm of ancient city life. Day 6: Wang Family Courtyard—Huamen Visit Wang Family Courtyard and experience the unique charm of Shanxi merchant culture. Finally, visit Huamen and feel the splendor and heritage of Chinese civilization. -------------------- Travel essentials: 🎒 👗 Clothing: December is cold, so remember to bring a down jacket, thick sweater, thermal underwear, and non-slip warm snow boots. 🎩 Accessories: Hats, scarves, and gloves are warm and stylish. Don't forget your camera or phone, and bring a power bank and data cable to record beautiful moments at any time. 🆔 Documents: ID card is a must-have for travel. Don't forget to bring student ID, senior citizen ID, and other discount cards to save money! 💊 Medicine: Prepare some common medicines such as cold medicine and stomach medicine just in case. 🥤 Other items: Thermos cup for hot water at any time. Although the winter sun is soft, sunscreen is also necessary. 🔋 Electrical appliances: Selfie stick for easy photo taking, and headphones to enjoy music on the go. These are the travel essentials for your Linfen–Xinzhou–Datong trip! Have a nice trip! -------------------- The customs of Linfen, the scenery of Xinzhou, and the historical sites of Datong, all along the way are stories. Looking forward to your next trip! 🌈

Linfen, which became popular online because of Wukong. Whether it is Xiaoxitian or Guangsheng Temple, it has become the most impressive day of my trip to Shanxi. Guangsheng Temple was built in the first year of Jianhe in the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD). It was originally named Julushe Temple, also known as Yuwang Pagoda Courtyard, and was renamed Guangsheng Temple in the Tang Dynasty. Except for the Feihong Pagoda and the Mahavira Hall in the upper temple, which were rebuilt in the Ming Dynasty, the rest are Yuan Dynasty buildings. Guangsheng Temple is divided into two temples, the lower temple is at the foot of the mountain, and the upper temple is at the top of the mountain. Promise me, try to leave more time for Guangsheng Temple, because both the upper and lower temples are worth savoring slowly and carefully. I went to the lower temple first and then the upper temple. I heard many tourists in the upper temple say, "Oh, it's too late to go to the lower temple," which is a pity. So be sure to arrange your time reasonably⌚️. After entering the mountain gate of the upper temple, you will see the most dazzling seven-colored glazed tile pagoda, also known as Feihong Pagoda. It is octagonal in plan, with thirteen stories, and is 47.63 meters high. The pagoda is made of blue bricks, and each story has eaves. The entire pagoda is full of yellow, green, and blue three-colored glazed tile decorations, which are really amazing🥹, breathtakingly beautiful. I walked around the pagoda three times, only to hate that I was not tall enough to see the high places clearly... It was also a pity that it was cloudy that day, and I couldn't take half of its beauty...

🌟Hongdong Guangsheng Temple is a historic temple with a rich heritage, located on the southern slope of Mount Huo, 17 km northeast of Hongdong County, Shanxi Province. It was first built in the first year of the Jianhe era of Emperor Huan of the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD) and has been rebuilt and renovated many times. The existing buildings are mainly relics of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The temple is divided into three parts: the Upper Temple, the Lower Temple, and the Water God Temple. The Feihong Pagoda, the Zhaocheng Jin Zang, and the Yuan Dynasty murals of the Water God Temple are collectively known as the "Three Wonders of Guangsheng", highlighting the unique cultural charm of Guangsheng Temple. 🎫Ticket price: Adult tickets are CNY 70 per person, and half-price tickets are CNY 35 per person. In addition, there are a variety of discount policies. ⌚Opening hours: Summer opening hours are 8:00–18:30, and winter opening hours are 8:00–18:00. Open all year round. ✅Location: At the foot of Mount Huo, 17 km northeast of Hongdong County, Shanxi Province. ☀Personal experience: The moment I stepped into Guangsheng Temple, I felt as if I had traveled through time and space and was in an ancient temple from a thousand years ago. The Feihong Pagoda towers into the clouds, and the glazed tiles on the pagoda shine brightly in the sunlight, with each brick and tile telling the story of time. Entering the Water God Temple, the Yuan Dynasty murals are vivid, and the colorful scenes of ancient people praying for rain and performing rain rituals leap before your eyes, making you admire the wisdom and artistic achievements of the ancients. At Guangsheng Temple, I deeply experienced the profoundness of traditional Chinese culture. The architectural style of the temple combines the legacy of the Tang and Song dynasties with the characteristics of the Jin and Yuan dynasties, and every detail contains rich historical information. Walking through the ancient courtyard, among the blue bricks and gray tiles, it seems as if you can hear the chanting of the ancients and feel the peace and tranquility. In addition, the natural environment of Guangsheng Temple is also fascinating. The temple is surrounded by mountains and water, with the verdant Mount Huo and the crystal-clear Huo Spring, and the fragrance of flowers and the sound of birds, making you feel relaxed and happy. Here, you can temporarily put aside the hustle and bustle of the city and let your soul be thoroughly cleansed.

| A Thousand-Year-Old Shock. ✨"The ancient temple and the idle monk are accompanied by clouds, the deep mountain and the distant world are neighbors with the moon." Guangsheng Temple in Shanxi is a corner that seems to be forgotten by time, and every inch of land exudes the charm of history. ✨Guangsheng Temple is located on the southern slope of Mount Huo, east of Hongdong County, Shanxi Province, and consists of the Upper Temple, Lower Temple, and Water God Temple. ✨Architectural Style Upper Temple: Located on the southern ridge of Mount Huo, with ancient cypress trees towering and a tall pagoda, it is resplendent and magnificent. Most of the buildings are relics rebuilt in the Ming dynasty, with a structure and style of the Yuan dynasty. Lower Temple: Located at the foot of the mountain, it is built according to the terrain, with halls of different heights, forming a group of temples with rich variations. Water God Temple: Located on the west side of the Lower Temple, separated from the temple by a wall, it is dedicated to the Ming Ying King. 📸Main Attractions Feihong Pagoda: Built in the Zhengde period of the Ming dynasty, it is the most exquisite and well-preserved glazed pagoda in China, and the filming location of the 1986 version of "Journey to the West" episode "Sweeping the Pagoda to Distinguish the Strange Injustice". Yuan Dynasty Drama Murals: More than ten murals from the Yuan dynasty are preserved in the Ming Ying King Hall of the Water God Temple, which are the only ancient Chinese murals not based on Buddhism or Taoism. "Zhaocheng Jin Zang": As the most preserved Han version of Buddhist scriptures in China, it is now kept in the Palace Museum. ❤️Warm Tips Tickets: Full-price tickets are CNY 70, available on the Huo Tai Mountain Guangsheng Scenic Area mini program. Opening Hours: Winter time 8:00–17:30, last entry at 17:00; Summer time 8:00–18:30, last entry at 17:30.

### 🌈 Guangsheng Temple Tour: Discover the Treasures of History and Culture Discover the ancient charm of Guangsheng Temple in Shanxi A visit to Guangsheng Temple in Hongdong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province, is not only a visual feast but also a spiritual baptism, allowing you to experience the profoundness of Chinese culture in the ancient architectural complex. **Day 1** - **Morning**: Arrive in Hongdong County and head to Guangsheng Temple Scenic Area. First, visit the Upper Temple, admire the exquisite glazed craftsmanship of the Feihong Pagoda, and feel its unique artistic charm. - **Noon**: Have lunch at a farmhouse near the scenic area and taste local specialties such as Hongdong Steamed Rice and Hongdong Mahua. - **Afternoon**: Continue to visit important buildings in the Upper Temple, such as the Amitabha Hall and the Mahavira Hall, and learn about the historical stories and cultural connotations behind them. - **Evening**: Check in to a hotel in Hongdong County, rest and adjust, and prepare for the next day's itinerary. **Day 2** - **Morning**: Head to the Lower Temple of Guangsheng Temple, visit the Water God Temple, and admire the unique charm of the Yuan Dynasty murals. - **Noon**: Have lunch at a restaurant near the scenic area and try more local delicacies. - **Afternoon**: Visit Huo Spring and learn about the history and cultural significance of this natural landscape. You can then visit the Great Locust Tree Root-seeking and Ancestor-worshiping Park nearby to experience more historical and cultural atmosphere. - **Evening**: Return to Hongdong County and enjoy a quiet night or taste snacks at the local night market. Notes - **Respect religious beliefs**: As a Buddhist holy site, visitors to Guangsheng Temple should keep quiet and avoid making loud noises or disrespectful behavior. - **Protect cultural relics**: Do not touch or damage any cultural relics, especially the murals in the Feihong Pagoda and the Water God Temple. - **Dress code**: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothes for long walks and climbs. - **Safety tips**: Pay attention to the safety of personal belongings, especially in crowded places. - **Experience traditional culture**: In the scenic area or nearby farmhouses, you can participate in some traditional handicraft experience activities, such as making traditional snacks and weaving straw hats. - **Photography**: The unique architectural style of Guangsheng Temple is perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture beautiful moments. - **Explore the surroundings**: In addition to Guangsheng Temple itself, you can also explore the surrounding natural scenery and cultural landscapes, such as the Great Locust Tree Root-seeking and Ancestor-worshiping Park and Huo Spring. 🌟

Feihong Pagoda - Overview: Located in Guangsheng Temple, Hongdong County, Shanxi Province, the pagoda stands in front of the main gate. It is octagonal with 13 stories, 47.31 meters high, and made of blue bricks. - History: The predecessor was the Asoka Pagoda built in the Eastern Han Dynasty. The pagoda was rebuilt by Master Dalian in the Ming Dynasty, and the wooden corridor at the bottom was built by monks. - Artistic features: The whole body is decorated with yellow, green, and blue glazed tiles. The first, second, and third stories are the most exquisite, with various components and patterns such as brackets, leaning columns, and Buddha statues under the eaves. The craftsmanship is exquisite, and the paintings are bright. - Honors: Certified by the World Record Certification Agency as the world's tallest multicolored glazed pagoda in 2018. - Cultural value: The 18th episode of the 1986 version of Journey to the West, "Sweeping the Pagoda to Distinguish the Strange Injustice," was filmed here. It is one of the "Three Wonders" of Guangsheng Temple and witnesses the superb ancient glazed tile firing skills. Fanshi Glazed Pagoda - Overview: Located in Zhuangzi Village, Yantou Township, Fanshi County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province, the pagoda is 31.55 meters high, with 13 stories and an octagonal structure. - Artistic features: The pagoda is covered with nearly 10,000 glazed Buddha statues, inlaid with yellow, green, and blue hollow glazed bricks, and complemented by layers of golden clouds. - Historical and cultural value: It is an architectural treasure of the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty and a typical representative of the glazed pagoda of the Ming Dynasty in China. Yangcheng Shousheng Temple Glazed Pagoda - Overview: Located in Yangling Village, Qinchi Town, Yangcheng County, Jincheng City, Shanxi Province, the pagoda is octagonal with 10 stories and 27.8 meters high. - Artistic features: Each story has glazed brackets and eaves, and the outer wall is inlaid with glazed reliefs of legendary figures. The whole body is inlaid with glazed statues and glazed with yellow, green, blue, purple, and black colors. - Historical and cultural value: It reflects the glazed tile firing and glaze color technology of the Ming Dynasty.

The Lower Temple of Guangsheng Temple includes the Water God Temple and the Lower Temple, which have basically retained the Yuan Dynasty architecture. Photos 2 and 3 show the mountain gate (the stage is behind the mountain gate) and the main hall of the Water God Temple, and photo 4 shows the Yuan Dynasty stone lion in front of the main hall. The murals of the Water God Temple are undoubtedly the most exquisite part of the Lower Temple. The east and west walls are the rain-seeking and rain-giving murals, respectively, and the difference can be clearly seen from the different facial expressions of the rain god sitting in the middle. The murals of the Water God Temple are wonderful because of their vivid details, such as the fish-selling mural in photo 7, where the official buying fish is pressing the scale with his little finger; the earliest coal stove in the lower right corner of photo 8; the cuju and chess murals in photo 9; the drama mural in photo 10; the mural of the Dragon King giving rain to Guangsheng Temple in photo 11, which shows the scale of Guangsheng Temple in those days; and the little maid lifting the curtain in photo 11 is also lifelike. If you can't see clearly, there is a special mural display and explanation on the west side of the main hall. The biggest highlight of the Lower Temple is the characteristics of Yuan Dynasty architecture, such as the "reduced column structure" in photo 14, the herringbone beam in photo 17, the large purlin in photo 18, the real and fake columns in photo 19, etc. The bell and drum towers on both sides of the main hall in photo 20 are also relatively rare. In fact, the Lower Temple also had very exquisite murals, but unfortunately, they were sold by the monks in the past to raise money to repair the temple, and are now preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the United States and the Kansas Museum. Now only a few corners of the murals remain in the main hall (photo 16), which is very regrettable.

Highlights of Guangsheng Temple: Glazed Feihong Pagoda & Yuan Dynasty murals in the Temple of the Water God The scenic area is divided into the Upper Temple and the Lower Temple. It is recommended to take a sightseeing bus to the Upper Temple to visit Feihong Pagoda first, then take a bus to the Lower Temple to visit the murals in the Temple of the Water God, and then take a bus back to the exit. The tour takes 2–3 hours.

In addition to the Feihong Pagoda and the Zhaocheng Jin Cang, the three treasures of Guangsheng Temple also include the Water God Temple and Yuan Dynasty murals. The Water God Temple is the most complete water god temple in China, and it contains precious Yuan Dynasty murals that vividly depict the ancient people's reverence for the water god and the process of praying for rain. The murals are rich in content, bright in color, and have high historical and artistic value. The Water God Temple has nearly 200 square meters of Yuan Dynasty murals, depicting mythological stories, court life, and the life of the common people. It is the only Yuan Dynasty opera mural in China. Walking into the temple is like traveling back in time.

📅 [Opening Hours]: Summer 8:00–18:30, Winter 8:00–17:30 🎟️ [Tickets]: CNY 70 per adult, CNY 35 per half-price ticket. Free or discounted tickets are available for certain groups, such as children, seniors, and students. ⏳ [Tour Duration]: At least half a day is recommended to fully appreciate the "Three Wonders of Guangsheng"—Feihong Pagoda, the Zhaocheng Jin Tripitaka, and the Yuan Dynasty murals in the Temple of the Water God. 🗺️ [Tour Route]: 1. Upper Temple Route: Mountain Gate → Feihong Pagoda → Amitabha Hall → Millennium Cypress → Mahavira Hall → Tianzhongtian Hall → Dizang Hall 2. Lower Temple Route: Theater → Temple of the Water God → Huo Spring 🚗 [Transportation]: Take a train to Linfen, transfer to Hongtong Station, or drive there. 📜 [History]: Guangsheng Temple was built in the first year of the Jianhe period of Emperor Huan of the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD). It has experienced ups and downs throughout history, and the existing buildings are from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. It was designated as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 1961. 🌈 Come to Guangsheng Temple and start a cultural journey through time and space!

✨Did you know? There is a Guangsheng Temple in Linfen, Shanxi, full of stories. 📜In the 1920s, the temple was dilapidated and on the verge of collapse. The monks had no choice but to make a difficult decision. They sold four Yuan Dynasty murals on the temple wall for 1,600 yuan 😢. These murals, like children tossed by fate, ended up in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, and the University of Pennsylvania Museum. Standing in the main hall of the lower temple of Guangsheng Temple, looking at the empty walls, our hearts are filled with sadness and helplessness. In that era, perhaps it was a choice without options. If not sold, the temple might disappear into the long river of history; if sold, the temple would be preserved, but with the regret of文物外流 (cultural relics outflow). 💕Today, we should cherish this temple even more. It is not only an architectural treasure, but also a witness to history. 🎫Here are some tips for visiting: 📍Location: Hongtong County, Linfen, Shanxi 🎫Ticket: 68 yuan/person, round-trip minibus to and from the mountain: 20 yuan/person 🕔Time: 8:00 - 18:00 (17:30 stop entry) 🚌Suggested route: Upper temple at the mountainside➠Lower temple at the foot of the mountain 📷Note: Photography is allowed inside the hall, but no flash 🚗Transportation is also convenient: 1️⃣Self-driving from Linfen to Guangsheng Temple: 1 hour 2️⃣Linfen West🚄Hongdong West 12min, then taxi 0.5h to Guangsheng Temple 3️⃣Xi'an North🚄Hongdong West 2h, then taxi to Guangsheng Temple Let's walk into Guangsheng Temple, feel its charm, and also remember that period of history, hoping that the cultural relics can return home one day🙏.

Guangsheng Temple, Linfen, Shanxi Perhaps the most regrettable temple in China No one can leave here with a smile after learning about the sad history behind it When we see the shock and beauty of the Guangsheng Temple glazed pagoda, we should not forget: the scene before us Was exchanged for 1,600 national treasure murals sold overseas I saw this passage on the inscription under the temple: "Guangsheng Temple in the southeast of the city, a scenic spot, the Buddhist temple at the foot of the mountain, has been dilapidated for a long time, and visitors from afar can't help but feel sad. The people of the city often want to repair it, but they always stop because they can't raise enough money. Last year, a foreign guest came and said that the murals in the Buddha Hall were loved by antiquities collectors and could be worth more than a thousand gold. The monk Zhenda invited the gentry to estimate the price and sell it. Everyone thought that there was no money to repair the temple, which had been a regret for many years. If they didn't sell it, the wall would collapse and the statue would be destroyed, and they would all be gone. Therefore, they negotiated with the customers again and again, and sold it for 1,600 yuan, which was not enough to make up for it..." In the 1920s, Guangsheng Temple was in disrepair and faced collapse. The monks in the temple had no choice but to sell it for 1,600 yuan.

Guangsheng Temple is a national 4A scenic spot in Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province, including the Upper Temple, the Lower Temple and the Water God Temple. Guangsheng Temple has a long history. It was built in the first year of Jianhe in the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD), originally named Julu She Temple, also known as Yuwang Tower Courtyard, and Guangsheng Temple was named in the Tang Dynasty. In history, Guangsheng Temple has been repaired and rebuilt many times, and the existing buildings are mostly in the style of the Yuan Dynasty. When the architectural scholar Liang Sicheng and his wife investigated the ancient buildings in 1934, they highly praised Guangsheng Temple and planted a locust tree in the temple. The Feihong Tower, "Zhaocheng Golden Collection" (also known as "Golden Collection of Buddhist Scriptures") and the Yuan Dynasty murals of the Water God Temple are known as the "Three Uniques" of Guangsheng Temple, which are extremely valuable. Feihong Tower is the largest existing glazed tower in China. The "Zhaocheng Golden Collection" is one of the four treasures of the National Library, along with the "Yongle Encyclopedia", "Siku Quanshu" and "Dunhuang Manuscripts", and is now collected in Linfen Museum. The murals of the Yuan Dynasty in the Water God Temple artistically show the process of praying for rain, rain and rewarding gods. There has been a long-standing Huo Spring in front of the Water God Temple, which is an important water source for Hongtong and Zhaocheng counties. In history, the people of the two counties often fought for the spring water, became enemies, and did not marry each other. In the third year of Yongzheng in the Qing Dynasty (1725), Liu Dengyong, the prefect of Pingyang, presided over the construction of the Huo Spring Diversion Pavilion, which resolved the disputes between the two counties. The diversion pavilion uses a ten-hole iron fence to divide the water, three for Hong and seven for Zhao. The "Pingzheng Bridge" is built on the iron fence, and a pavilion with a roll shed and a rest mountain top is built on the bridge. There is a pair of couplets on the brick-carved gate building on the north and south sides, which explains the three-seven water division. One of them is "Divide three and seven, divide the iron pillars, the water is clear and beautiful, the water is like a silver wave, the plum blossoms are inferior to the snow". The Huo Spring Diversion Pavilion has the functions of water diversion, passage, and rest, and also embodies the way of benefiting the people.

Shanxi has so many ancient buildings that I am amazed every day. Guangsheng Temple is another place that amazed me. The temple is not small and consists of the upper temple, the lower temple, and the water temple. My personal favorite is the water temple. First, I think the couplet on the archway about the allusion of the three-seven water division between Hongtong and Zhaocheng is very clever. "Divide three and seven, divide the iron pillar, the water is clear and the water is beautiful, the water becomes a silver wave", the words one, three, and five hide the "water division" three times, which is really clever! What I like most is the Yuan Dynasty murals in the water temple, which are well preserved and lifelike. This is also a rare mural that is not a Buddhist theme. It presents a lot of life scenes, including the picture of the Yuan Dynasty drama troupe, which can be said to be a national orphan. In addition, the Feihong Pagoda, Yongzheng plaque, etc. are all treasures of the temple, which are worth seeing

📍Located in Hongdong County, Linfen, Shanxi, there is a world-famous ancient pagoda - Guangsheng Temple Feihong Pagoda. This ancient pagoda is not only the pride of Shanxi, but also one of the four existing ancient pagodas in China, which can be regarded as a treasure of ancient architecture. 🔍The Feihong Pagoda of Guangsheng Temple is not only one of the four existing ancient pagodas in China, but also the crystallization of the wisdom and labor of ancient craftsmen. Its unique shape and exquisite detail processing reflect the superb craftsmanship of ancient architecture. From different angles, you can see different styles of the Feihong Pagoda, and each angle is worth exploring and savoring. 🔅Travel tips 🔹About 45 kilometers away from Linfen, there is a high-speed train from Linfen West to Hongdong West, 12 minutes, 6 yuan, Dahuaishu Scenic Area is also in Hongdong, you can visit it together. 🔹Take a taxi from Hongdong West to Guangsheng Temple, about 40 yuan, it is easy to get a taxi from the train station 🔹The scenic spots in Linfen are relatively scattered, you can choose the last day, book a one-day tour of Linfen, go to Xiaoxitian in the morning, and Guangsheng Temple in the afternoon, visit Guangsheng Temple and leave the group, take the train to the next stop, no need to return to Linfen 🔹Opening hours: 8:00-17:30 🔹Guangsheng Temple ticket: 68 yuan, scenic shuttle bus 20 yuan (round trip), the upper temple is on the mountain, you need to climb the mountain, take the shuttle bus to save energy. 。 🔹Upper temple, visit time about 40-50 minutes, lower temple, visit time about 30 minutes, water god temple next to the lower temple, murals are worth seeing, don't miss it! 🔹Please explain, upper temple and lower temple are separate, if you book a one-day tour, including explanation, it's pretty good! 🔹Protect the building, there is no lighting in the temple, the light is dim, you can't use flash when taking photos

Guangsheng Temple, an ancient temple standing in the depths of time, exudes a mysterious and solemn atmosphere. Looking from a distance, the architectural complex of Guangsheng Temple is majestic and spectacular, with flying eaves like wings and interlaced bucket arches, as if it is an ancient scroll slowly unfolding. The vermilion wall has precipitated a mellow color under the baptism of the years, telling the glory of the past. Stepping into the temple, the quiet atmosphere instantly surrounds people. The ancient hall is solemn and solemn, the Buddha statue is kind and dignified, staring at the sentient beings coming and going. The sun shines through the carved window lattice, forming a golden beam of light, adding a touch of ethereal and sacred to the temple.

Guangsheng Temple is located in Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province. It is a national 4A scenic spot and was first built in the first year of Emperor Huan of the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD). The Guangsheng Temple Scenic Area is divided into two temples and a water god temple. The Feihong Tower, the "Zhaocheng Jincang", and the Yuan Dynasty murals of the Water God Temple are collectively referred to as the "Three Uniques of Guangsheng". The Feihong Tower is one of the five Buddha Sheli Towers and is the only colored glaze tower that has been discovered so far with the inscription of the craftsman and the largest and most complete colored glaze tower. In August 2018, the building was determined to be the "world's tallest colored glaze tower". "Zhaocheng Jincang" is the first woodcut version of the Dazangjing in the Song Dynasty in China. It is called the four treasures of the National Library with "Yongle Dadian", "Siku Quanshu", and "Dunhuang Yishu". The Water God Temple is the most complete temple dedicated to the water god in China. The Yuan Dynasty murals in it have extremely high historical and artistic value. Guangsheng Temple is not only famous for its rich historical and cultural value, but also because of its unique architectural style and well-preserved ancient cultural relics, it has become an important tourist attraction. It attracts a large number of tourists to worship and sightseeing every year.

Shanxi speed is really fast. The Wukong statue appeared at Guangsheng Temple first: Depart from Taiyuan to Hongdong Guangsheng Temple. We drove by ourselves, it took less than 3 hours, and arrived at 2 pm. We went directly to the No. 1 Dingzi Kou Restaurant. This restaurant is really super large and affordable. 4 people spent a total of 181 yuan. The restaurant has air conditioning, which is really friendly to people who are afraid of heat~ At 3:30 pm, we arrived at the Upper Temple. The Wukong statue can be seen as soon as you enter the Upper Temple! There were a lot of people in the afternoon. You need to queue up for the tour guide to explain. We finally got a group. The explanation fee for the Upper Temple is 50 yuan, and 5 earphones are provided. After that, each additional person will be charged 5 yuan. At 5 pm, we arrived at the Lower Temple. To be honest, it was a bit late. The light in the Water God Temple was not very good, and some of the murals were not very clear. The explanation fee for the Lower Temple is 40 yuan. The threshold of ancient buildings in Shanxi is still a bit high. You still need to hire a tour guide to explain it well~ Mr. Liang Sicheng said: There are no ancient sites in famous places. The general meaning is that in places like the capitals of all dynasties, many ancient sites will be affected by the change of dynasties and it will be difficult to maintain their original appearance. They will be constantly replaced. Therefore, the reason why Guangsheng Temple can be preserved and give people a strong visual shock is closely related to its location.

📍 Location: Guangsheng Temple is located at the foot of Mount Huo in the northeast of Hongdong County, Shanxi Province. It is an ancient temple that integrates ancient architecture, sculptures, and murals. 🚗 Transportation: Self-driving: Start from Hongdong County and follow the signs to the east. After a section of mountain road, you will reach Guangsheng Temple. The scenery along the way is beautiful, but please pay attention to driving safety. Public transportation: There are direct buses or tourist lines from Hongdong County to Guangsheng Temple. You can also take a taxi, which is more convenient and faster. 👍 Must-see attractions: Feihong Tower: As the landmark building of Guangsheng Temple, Feihong Tower is famous for its unique shape and exquisite glazed decoration. It is one of the four famous towers in China and is even more spectacular at night when illuminated by lights. Water God Temple: The temple houses Yuan Dynasty theatrical murals with rich content. It is a valuable resource for studying the history of Chinese ancient theater and a must-see for art lovers. Mahavira Hall: The hall houses statues of Sakyamuni Buddha, bodhisattvas, and arhats. The statues are vivid and colorful, reflecting the superb artistic level of ancient craftsmen. 🎟 Tickets: Ticket prices may vary depending on factors such as season and holidays. Generally, adult tickets cost between tens and hundreds of yuan. For specific information, please refer to the official website or online ticketing platforms. Students, seniors, and other specific groups may enjoy discounts. Please bring valid ID for verification when purchasing tickets. 💗 Other tips: Tour time: It is recommended to set aside half a day to a day to fully explore the various attractions of Guangsheng Temple and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery. Clothing recommendations: As you will need to climb mountains, please wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Please also pay attention to sun protection and mosquito repellent. Photography tips: You can take photos freely as long as you do not disturb other tourists or cultural relics. However, please respect the regulations and do not use flash. Cultural respect: As a religious site, please keep quiet, respect the monks and tourists, and abide by the temple regulations. Do not touch or climb cultural relics at will. Surrounding exploration: There are natural landscapes such as Mount Huo Scenic Area around Guangsheng Temple. After visiting Guangsheng Temple, you can also visit the surrounding attractions to enrich your itinerary.

🏰【Exploring the Mysteries of Hongtong, Shanxi: A Journey to the Bixia Holy Mother Palace】🏰 🌟 We arrived at the Bixia Holy Mother Palace in Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province. This place is not only a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit but also a witness to history. 🚗 Departing from Taiyun Temple, we drove all the way and soon reached this mysterious place hidden in Fangdui Village. Although the gate was closed, fortunately, the phone number of the cultural relics protector was posted on the door. Before long, we were able to enter this secret garden known only to true ancient culture enthusiasts. 👀 Walking into the Holy Mother Palace felt like traveling through time, directly into the clay sculptures of the Ming Dynasty. The hanging sculpture art here reveals the ingenuity of ancient craftsmen in every detail, making one marvel. 🏛️ The Bixia Holy Mother Palace was built in the second year of the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. It faces south with a two-courtyard layout. The wooden archway and the Holy Mother Hall on the central axis are treasures of Ming Dynasty architecture. The four characters "Rui Guang Chong Xiao" on the wooden archway make one feel the weight of history. 🎨 The altar, wooden pavilion-style shrine, dougong, and coiled dragons in the main hall are all essences of Ming Dynasty art. Especially the hanging sculptures, which are not just sculptures but vivid stories that tell the beliefs and legends of that era. 🤔 I can't help but wonder, why is such a place only a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit? Shouldn't its historical and artistic value be known to more people? 📍 Location: Fangdui Village, Guangshengsi Town, Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province 🌈 Every trip is a spiritual cleansing. At the Bixia Holy Mother Palace, we not only saw the marks of history but also felt the power of culture. This is not just a trip but a dialogue with history.

Unexpectedly, the most important part of Guangsheng Temple (for me personally) is the Mahavira Hall in the Lower Temple, also known as the Rear Buddha Hall. When I saw the introduction mentioning that the murals had been sold to the United States, and later heard the guide mention the Metropolitan Museum in New York... I suddenly realized, could this mural be the one I saw at the Metropolitan Museum years ago? Indeed, it is this very mural! Instantly, my blood surged, and I was overwhelmed with emotion. The puzzle I had been searching for years finally had an answer. At this moment, on the other side of the earth, her original visage quietly displays the long history and splendid culture of the Chinese nation on a huge wall to people from all over the world. What a captivating shock and charm that makes people stop and admire! 'The Medicine Buddha Transformation' (formerly known in China as: The Assembly of the Medicine Buddha), when will you return home? Those scattered mural fragments are waiting to reunite with you. In the 1920s and 1930s, China was plagued by warlords, and people's lives were extremely difficult, including monks. Guangsheng Temple, which was built during the Eastern Han Dynasty, had become increasingly dilapidated due to years of neglect. The monks scattered, and neither the temple nor the local government had the resources to repair it. In 1928, American relic dealers Warner, Pullen, and Skemen discovered Yuan Dynasty murals in the Mahavira Hall (Rear Buddha Hall) of the Lower Temple in Guangsheng Temple. They were amazed and contacted local gentry like Li Zongzhao to purchase them. Monk Zhenda believed that instead of waiting for the hall to collapse and the murals to be destroyed, it was better to sell the murals to preserve the hall. After discussions with local officials and gentry, the murals on the four walls were divided and sold for 1,600 silver dollars. During the entire process of selling the murals, the county magistrate of Zhaocheng, Zhang Mengzeng, and local gentry Zhang Ruiqing and Wang Chengzhang were also involved. Sadly, people at the time did not see this as a shameful act. On the contrary, they considered selling the murals to preserve the temple as a righteous act worthy of praise. Therefore, they even inscribed a stone tablet to commemorate the event, recording the sale of the murals in detail. A total of four murals from Guangsheng Temple were sold, including murals on the east and west walls of the front and rear halls. After several transfers, the murals were eventually shipped to the United States under the planning of the great antique dealer Lu Qinzhai. Upon arrival in the United States, the 'Medicine Buddha Transformation' mural on the east wall of the Rear Buddha Hall was acquired by New York dentist Sackler, who loved Chinese cultural artifacts and was very wealthy. He had purchased and collected a large number of Chinese relics. Finding it difficult to keep such a large mural at home, Sackler donated it to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1964 in his mother's name. The mural was sold in hundreds of pieces and was later completely restored by the Metropolitan Museum. The restored mural is permanently displayed in a hall named after Sackler and quickly became the museum's most famous Chinese art collection, stunning the world. 'Transformation' means another form of expression of Buddhist scriptures without using text. The Medicine Buddha Transformation means the expression of the Medicine Buddha Sutra through paintings. The entire mural is 15.2 meters long and 7.52 meters high, making it extremely grand in scale. In the center of the painting, the Medicine Buddha sits on a lotus throne, with a kind and round face, dignified posture, black hair in a topknot, ears hanging down to the shoulders, wearing a Buddhist robe, chest exposed, right arm bare, left hand resting on the knee, right hand forming a mudra, and both feet in a lotus position on the lotus throne. The Medicine Buddha in this mural has his left hand resting on his knee, which is different from the usual depiction of the Medicine Buddha holding a medicine vessel in his left hand. On either side of the Medicine Buddha are the Sunlight Bodhisattva and Moonlight Bodhisattva, also seated on lotus thrones, forming the 'Three Honored Ones of the Medicine Buddha,' also known as the 'Three Saints of the East.' Surrounding them are the 'Eight Great Bodhisattvas' standing around the 'Three Honored Ones of the Medicine Buddha.' Below the lotus thrones of the 'Three Honored Ones of the Medicine Buddha,' there are two Bodhisattvas or children offering flowers. On both sides of the painting are twelve Yaksha generals and various guardian deities, protecting the Pure Land of the East. This painting is grand in scale, with numerous figures, complex colors, and exquisite line drawing. Despite over seven hundred years of vicissitudes, it remains magnificent and is considered an artistic treasure.

📍Attraction address: Shanxi Guangsheng Temple is located on the east side of Hongguang Road, Hongdong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province 🚗Attraction transportation: It takes about one and a half hours to drive from Linfen to Guangsheng Temple From Linfen West to Hongdong West, take a taxi for half an hour to reach Guangsheng Temple. Or take bus No. 26 to Hongdong Railway Station and transfer to bus No. 22 to Guangsheng Temple Charter a car for 160 yuan, round trip from Linfen to Guangsheng Temple 👍️Must-visit attractions: Guangsheng Temple is divided into: Upper Temple—Lower Temple—Water God Temple Three wonders of Guangsheng Temple: Feihong Tower, "Zhaocheng Jin Zang", Yuan Dynasty murals. I will give you a detailed introduction to the three wonders later, so this overall travel guide will not go into detail. In addition to the three wonders, each hall in the Upper Temple and Lower Temple is also very particular. For example, the two Tang dynasty cypresses in front of the Mahavira Hall in the Upper Temple, the "Glory of Eternity" inscribed by Emperor Yongzheng, and the rear hall of the Lower Temple has the worm seal script "Treasure Raft Golden Rope" and the Three Buddhas and Manjushri Bodhisattva of the Yuan Dynasty, etc. 🎟️Ticket information: Adult ticket 68 yuan, round trip shuttle bus 20 yuan Explanation fee is separate for Upper Temple and Lower Temple, 20 yuan for Upper Temple, 30 yuan for Lower Temple 💗Other tips: ⚠️The Upper Temple is on the mountain, the Lower Temple is at the foot of the mountain, and there are shuttle buses between each section. The order is Upper Temple—Lower Temple—Water God Temple 📸You can take photos but do not use flash and do not touch

👍Recommended Reason: The Feihong Pagoda at Guangsheng Temple in Hongtong, Shanxi is incredibly spectacular. It is the largest, most complete, and oldest glazed pagoda in China, and it also houses the true relics of Buddha Shakyamuni. 📍Location: Located in Hongtong, Shanxi. 🚙Transportation: A shuttle bus costs 10 yuan for the entire journey. From the visitor center, you can go directly to the Feihong Pagoda in the Upper Temple. After visiting the Upper Temple, you can take the bus to the Lower Temple. 🎠Must-visit Attractions: The Feihong Pagoda in the Upper Temple is a must-see, and the Lower Temple is also worth a visit. 💸Ticket Information: Tickets are 55 yuan, with discounts available for special groups. ❤️Other Tips: Guided tours are very important. You can form a group on your own. The Upper Temple tour costs 50 yuan, and the Lower Temple tour costs 30 yuan. Be sure to bring binoculars to see the exquisite glazed decorations on the pagoda clearly.

Guangsheng Temple is a place worth visiting. Here, you can learn about history, culture, ancient architecture, and religious art. Guangsheng Temple consists of three parts: the Upper Temple, the Lower Temple, and the Water God Temple. The ancient cypress trees are lush, and the mountains and waters are beautiful. Public Transportation: You can take bus No. 21 or No. 22 from the city of Hongdong County directly to the scenic area. Special Attractions: 1: Feihong Tower 2: Yuan Dynasty murals 3: 'Zhaocheng Jin Zang' Precautions: 1: When visiting, respect religious beliefs and cultural customs. Do not make loud noises, smoke, or litter in the temple. 2: Be careful to protect cultural relics during your visit. Do not touch, climb, or damage the relics.

Shanxi Guangsheng Temple, originally built during the Eastern Han Dynasty, was originally named Julu She Temple, also known as Yuwang Pagoda Courtyard, and was renamed Guangsheng Temple during the Tang Dynasty. It is a famous ancient architectural complex, known for its unique 'Three Wonders': the Feihong Pagoda, the Zhaocheng Jinzang, and the Yuan Dynasty murals. The Feihong Pagoda is the world's tallest multi-colored glazed pagoda. The Zhaocheng Jinzang is a re-engraved edition of China's first woodblock-printed Tripitaka, the 'Kaibao Zang', which has been through many vicissitudes during times of war. It is now one of the four great treasures of the National Library, alongside the 'Yongle Encyclopedia', the 'Complete Library in Four Branches of Literature', and the 'Dunhuang Manuscripts', and no longer resides within the temple. The Yuan Dynasty murals, created during the Eastern Han Dynasty, are a set of customary sacrificial murals. These are the only murals in ancient Chinese temples that do not focus on Buddhism or Taoism, making them a unique example. They have been included in the 'History of China' textbooks.

| The magnificent, stunningly beautiful multicolored glazed pagoda that has been preserved for 500 years. Shanxi | The magnificent, stunningly beautiful multicolored glazed pagoda that has been preserved for 500 years • Fanta trip Shan Xi The most beautiful glazed pagoda—Guangsheng Temple One At the peak of Huo Mountain, 15 kilometers northeast of Hongtong County, stands Guangsheng Temple, built in the first year of Jianhe of the Eastern Han Dynasty (147). 'Guangsheng Temple' is a group of ancient Yuan and Ming dynasty buildings composed of the upper temple, lower temple, and the Water God Temple. Perched atop Huo Mountain, the 'Feihong Pagoda' is the most intact multicolored glazed pagoda in China and is known as the number one glazed treasure pagoda in China. It is also the only glazed pagoda discovered to date that has inscriptions by the craftsmen who built it and is the largest and most complete. The 'upper temple' has been rebuilt many times, and the existing structures are relics of the Ming dynasty reconstruction, still retaining the style of the Yuan dynasty. Inside the mountain gate is the pagoda courtyard, where the Feihong Pagoda stands. It was rebuilt in the sixth year of the Jiajing era of the Ming dynasty, with the bottom layer's surrounding corridor added in the second year of the Tianqi era. The pagoda is brick-built, with a thirteen-story octagonal plane, and the surface is entirely inlaid with yellow, green, and blue glazed tiles that form buildings, shrines, brackets, lotus petals, corner pillars, railings, flower covers, as well as patterns of coiling dragons, figures, mythical creatures, and various flowers, each layer with a different group of patterns. Especially the Buddha, Bodhisattva, and Vajra glazed figures above the third layer's platform, and the glazed coiling dragons, jewels, and floral decorations inlaid on each face from the fourth to the tenth layer, which, through the refraction of sunlight, present a beautiful spectrum of colors. The mountain gate of the 'lower temple' is towering, and the Amitabha Hall, a large hall with five bays, is supported by only two pillars. At the beginning of the last century, Guangsheng Temple was on the verge of decline. The abbot of the lower temple, Monk Zhenda, who had taken monastic vows but did not believe in Buddhism, had an affair with a nun, leading to the temple's decline. After his attempt to sell the top national treasure 'Zhaocheng Jinzang' was discovered, he turned his attention to the murals inside the hall. In 1928, American art dealers took an interest in the murals. Zhenda thought that since there were no funds for repairs, rather than waiting for the great hall to collapse and the murals to be damaged, it would be better to 'sell the paintings to repair the hall.' Thus, he joined forces with the powerful, and with a grand gesture, the 'Yao Shi Jing Bian' mural on the east wall of the Great Buddha Hall was sold to the United States for 1600 silver yuan, becoming the private collection of New York dentist Seckler. However, Zhenda did not keep his promise. After only building a side gate, he absconded with the funds, returning to secular life with the nun, and thereafter the lower temple completely fell into ruin. Because the mural was too large, Seckler later donated it to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The remaining 'Blazing Light Buddha Assembly Picture' and 'Medicine Buddha Assembly Picture' were collected by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in the United States and the University of Pennsylvania Museum, respectively. The 'Water God Temple' on the west side of the lower temple is the most intact temple dedicated to the water god in China, built no later than the Tang dynasty. The 217 square meters of murals inside the hall depict the mythological stories of the life and entertainment of the water god Ming Ying Wang at Huo Spring, among other detailed character portrayals. Guangsheng Temple has lost some things, but it has also retained some. Only the glazed tiles have become even more dazzling and lustrous with the passage of time

After arriving in Linfen, one must visit the Guangsheng Temple. Guangsheng Temple is located in Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province. It is the most intact temple dedicated to the water god in China, consisting of three architectural parts: the Upper Temple, the Lower Temple, and the Water God Temple. The temple was originally built in the first year of Jianhe of the Eastern Han Dynasty (147 AD), initially named 'Julu She Temple', also known as 'Yu Wang Ta Yuan', and was renamed 'Guangsheng Temple' during the Tang Dynasty. Throughout history, Guangsheng Temple has suffered from fires and earthquakes, and has been rebuilt during the Tang, Song, Jin, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Currently, except for the Feihong Pagoda and the Mahavira Hall of the Upper Temple, which were rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty, the rest are Yuan Dynasty buildings. In 1961, it was listed as a national key cultural relics protection unit, included at the same time as the Palace Museum. Guangsheng Temple has three wonders: 1. Feihong Pagoda Located in the Upper Temple, it is one of the five Buddha relic pagodas and one of the four ancient pagodas existing in China. It is also the only colored glaze pagoda found to date that has artisan inscriptions and is the largest and most complete. In 2018, after on-site measurement and verification by the official staff of the World Record Certification, the building was confirmed as 'the world's tallest multicolored glaze pagoda'. It was the filming location for Monk Tang sweeping the pagoda in the 1986 CCTV version of 'Journey to the West'. Under the sunlight, the Feihong Pagoda shimmers with flowing colors, like a rainbow stretching across the sky, dazzlingly bright. 2. 'Zhaocheng Jinzang' It is the layout of the first woodblock-printed Tripitaka 'Kaibao Zang' in ancient China. This Tripitaka is a translation of the Sanskrit scriptures brought back from India by the Tang Dynasty's Tripitaka master Xuanzang. It is a unique edition of the Buddhist scriptures and belongs to the world cultural heritage. The long rows of mahogany cabinets that house the 'Zhaocheng Jinzang' sit quietly inside the Amitabha Hall, witnessing the past glory and vicissitudes. 3. Yuan Dynasty murals in the Water God Temple. The murals, with the main themes of praying for rain, making rain, and rewarding the gods, have extremely high historical and artistic value. As photography is not allowed, the image data (Figures 15—18) is sourced from the internet. At the Linfen Museum, I saw the display of 'Zhaocheng Jinzang' and took photos of some of the exhibits (see Figure 7) as a supplement. At the same time, I also accidentally discovered a dragon-themed cultural and creative product. It is said that its inspiration comes from the dragon sculpture in the Pilu Hall, which is climbing up the rafters (see Figure 13).

Shanxi's land and water bear the memories of the hometown for Chinese people everywhere. Today, people come here to trace their roots, as if they can still see the scenes of their ancestors leaving their homes and being forced to migrate, with families torn apart. Curious friends might ask, where exactly is this place in Shanxi? What unique landscapes does it have? With these questions and curiosity, let's talk today about Hongtong County in Shanxi. Hongtong County is the most populous county in Shanxi, covering an area of 1,494 square kilometers. It is named after the 'Hong Cliff' to the south of the city and the 'Ancient Cave' to the north. Although there are not many tourists visiting Hongtong County in Shanxi for sightseeing, taking children for walks, and taking photos for social media check-ins, this place is indeed the ancestral home of Chinese people around the world. 'Ask me where my ancestors are from, under the great locust tree in Hongtong, Shanxi. What's the name of the ancestral home? Under the locust tree, the old stork nest.' A folk song, an ancient and sacred locust tree, witnessed the great migration during the Ming Dynasty 600 years ago, becoming the bond between Hongtong and countless Chinese descendants, carrying the nostalgia of numerous people, and also precipitating the root complex of 'the ancestral home of Chinese people' in Hongtong. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that Hongtong County also hides China's first glazed pagoda!

The ancient architecture is truly best appreciated in Shanxi. A few years ago, I visited the Twin Pagoda Temple, Chunyang Palace, Jinci, and Pingyao Ancient City in Taiyuan, and these past few days, I've seen the Guangsheng Temple murals, Feihong Tower, Qu Family Courtyard, and Zhao Yu Ancient City. I even flew a drone directly to the top of the tower to take a round of photos, which was quite interesting. The Hongtong Guangsheng Temple scenic area is divided into the upper and lower temples and the Water God Temple, three architectural sites. The Feihong Tower, 'Zhaocheng Jinzang' (Zhaocheng Gold Hoard), and the Yuan Dynasty murals of the Water God Temple are collectively known as the 'Three Wonders of Guangsheng'. This glazed pagoda is the one where Tang Sanzang and Sun Wukong swept the floors in the 1986 version of 'Journey to the West'. It is truly splendid and magnificent. The Feihong Tower stands in front of the mountain gate, with an octagonal shape and 13 stories, reaching a height of 47.31 meters. The tower is built of blue bricks, with eaves extending out on each level. It is decorated with yellow, green, and blue tri-colored glaze, with the first three levels being the most exquisite. Under the eaves, there are various components and patterns such as brackets, pillars, Buddha statues, bodhisattvas, vajras, flowers, coiled dragons, birds, and beasts, all delicately molded and brightly painted, with colors that remain vibrant to this day. Wind chimes hang from the corners of the eaves, producing pleasant ringing sounds when caressed by the breeze.

✅ The world-renowned Guangsheng Temple, located in Hongtong County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province, was originally named Julushe Temple, also known as Yuying Pagoda Courtyard. It was founded in the first year of Jianhe during the Eastern Han Dynasty under Emperor Huan, flourished during the Tang Dynasty, and was renamed Guangsheng Temple. During the Jin and Yuan dynasties, it was destroyed in wars and earthquakes, but through several reconstructions, Guangsheng Temple has developed an architectural style that retains the legacy of the Tang and Song dynasties, as well as features of the Jin and Yuan dynasties. ✅ Apart from the Feihong Pagoda and the Mahavira Hall of the upper temple, which were rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty, the rest of the buildings are from the Yuan Dynasty. 👍👍👍 The 'Three Wonders and One Marvel' of Guangsheng Temple ❤ One Wonder: The Colorful Liuli Pagoda - Feihong Pagoda The Feihong Pagoda is the iconic structure of Guangsheng Temple, located in the upper temple and built during the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty. It has 13 levels, and the entire pagoda is decorated with glazed figures of flowers, coiling dragons, birds, beasts, Buddha statues, bodhisattvas, and vajras. Despite having withstood a magnitude eight earthquake, the colors remain as vibrant as ever. The Feihong Pagoda is the only glazed pagoda in China that still has inscriptions by the craftsmen, and it is the oldest, tallest, and most intact. It is a representative masterpiece of Chinese glazed pagodas. In August 2018, the 'Feihong Pagoda' was certified by the World Record Certification Agency as the 'World's Tallest Multicolored Glazed Pagoda'. ❤ Second Wonder: The Unique Treasure - Zhaocheng Jin Tripitaka Inside the Amitabha Hall of the upper temple, red scripture cabinets are displayed along the walls, where the second wonder and unique treasure, the 'Zhaocheng Jin Tripitaka,' was originally kept. This scripture collection, carved during the Jin Dynasty and discovered in Zhaocheng Guangsheng Temple in 1933, is the only one of its kind in the world, making it a rare gem. It is now housed in the National Library of China and is one of the four treasures of the library, alongside the 'Yongle Encyclopedia,' 'Complete Library in Four Branches of Literature,' and 'Dunhuang Manuscripts.' ❤ Third Wonder: National Treasure - Yuan Dynasty Drama Murals The existing murals are located inside the main building of the Shuishen Temple, the Mingying Wang Hall. These are the only ancient murals in China that do not depict Buddhist or Taoist themes, making them a unique example and a model of painting art. Among them, the mural 'Great Prosperity and Loyalty Showcased Here' is the only large-scale Yuan Dynasty drama mural discovered in China so far; another mural, 'Pounding Pills,' depicts a sport that is the precursor to modern golf and is the earliest record of this sport in China. In 1998, these two murals were included in the 'History of China' textbook. ❤ One Marvel: Tang Dynasty Twisted Ancient Cypress Trees In front of the Mahavira Hall of the upper temple, there is a thousand-year-old cypress tree on each side. These two towering ancient cypress trees, over 1300 years old, one to the east and one to the west, have symmetrical patterns, with the left one twisting to the left and the right one spiraling to the right, which is quite peculiar. ❤✅ Others: In addition to the 'Three Wonders and One Marvel,' Guangsheng Temple also has many well-preserved ancient relics. For example, the architectural style of the Buddha Hall in the lower temple represents the building level of the Yuan Dynasty and is hailed as a model of economic and aesthetic appropriateness in the history of Chinese architecture. There are colored sculptures from the Yuan Dynasty, wooden carvings and Buddha statues from the Ming Dynasty; hollow iron-cast Arhat statues from the Ming Dynasty, praise poems inscribed by Emperor Taizong of Tang during his visit to Guangsheng Temple; a wooden plaque inscribed by Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty with the words 'Glorious Forever,' and so on. Guangsheng Temple is truly a treasure trove. 📝tips: 1. It is recommended to hire a guide for a more detailed understanding of the ancient relics of Guangsheng Temple. The upper temple tour costs 50 yuan, and the lower temple tour costs 30 yuan. 2. Taking a car to the upper temple is more energy-saving, with a shuttle costing 10 yuan per person per trip. 3. The adult ticket for Guangsheng Temple is 50 yuan.