China, Changzhi, Shanxi {1}

Guanyin Temple Guanyin Temple in Changzhi, Shanxi is located in Liangjiazhuang Village, Luzhou District, Changzhi City. It is an ancient building with a profound historical background. Guanyin Temple was built between the 9th and 11th years of the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty (1581-1583), and has a history of more than 400 years. In the Qing Dynasty and modern times, Guanyin Temple was repaired and has been preserved to this day. Guanyin Temple is not only a representative of religious architecture, but also an artistic treasure. There are about 500 painted sculptures and hanging sculptures in the temple. These sculptures are about two meters tall, and the smallest is only two centimeters. They use a variety of sculpting techniques such as round sculpture, hanging sculpture, relief sculpture, group sculpture, paste sculpture, and floating sculpture. The layout is reasonable, and the primary and secondary are distinct. These sculptures gather figures from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, such as Buddha, Laozi, Confucius, Guanyin, Manjushri, Samantabhadra, Arhats, Eight Immortals, Jade Emperor, and Confucius' seventy-two disciples, showing the integration and prosperity of religious culture in the Ming Dynasty. The architectural features of Guanyin Temple are also very significant. It faces east and west, with two courtyards. On the central axis from west to east, there are buildings such as the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Pavilion, and the Main Hall. In the main hall of Guanyin Hall, the three walls and the roof beams are all painted sculptures and hanging sculptures with gold and color, and the scene is magnificent and spectacular, known as the best of Ming Dynasty painted sculptures. Guanyin Temple in Changzhi, Shanxi has become a national key cultural relic protection unit, attracting many tourists and scholars to visit and feel the charm and historical background of this ancient building. Scenic spot advantage: Xiaoxitian in Shexian County, Linfen requires climbing, while Guanyin Temple does not require climbing and is located in the urban area. The two scenic spots have similar views and exquisite hanging sculptures. Guanyin Temple ticket: CNY 10. Free for seniors over 60 with valid ID.