Xixian Xiaoxitian | The 'Suspended Sculpture Masterpiece' in the history of Chinese sculpture art

Distinct from other grand and towering famous mountains and large temples, Xiaoxitian, founded by the Ming Dynasty Zen master Dongming in the second year of the Chongzhen era, is built against the mountain and surrounded by mountains on three sides, yet it is very delicate as a whole, covering an area of just over 1100 square meters. Initially named 'Qianfo An' (Thousand Buddha Nunnery) due to the presence of a thousand Buddha statues in the Mahavira Hall, it was later renamed 'Xiaoxitian' (Little Western Heaven) to distinguish it from another Ming Dynasty temple in the south of the city called 'Daxitian' (Great Western Heaven). The temple buildings are scattered and situated on the mountain peak, filling the limited space with the Mahavira Hall, Manjusri Hall, Samantabhadra Hall, Beamless Hall, Heavenly King Hall, Weituo Hall, Ksitigarbha Hall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and many other structures. The overall layout is innovative and exquisitely intricate, making full use of the space. The surrounding natural scenery and the temple buildings complement each other, forming an integrated whole, creating a poetic and picturesque magnificent landscape. Two-thirds of the temple halls are double-layered structures, stacked and winding, with meandering paths leading to secluded spots, resembling the freedom and charm of a garden while maintaining the traditional temple pattern. Inside the halls, the beams and painted rafters are richly decorated and elegant. Coupled with the temple's collection of the rare official edition treasure 'Ming Yongle Northern Canon', it has become a rare treasure for studying Chinese Buddhist history, canon history, ethics, and even folklore.