[2025 Pingyao Attraction] Travel Guide for Zhenguo Temple (Updated Feb)

👀 Hey guys, today I want to share Zhen Guo Temple in Jinzhong! It's a gem of Northern Han architecture and clay sculpture art ✨, and the ancient buildings and murals inside are simply amazing! 👍 However, there is a small downside, the transportation is really not very convenient 🚗. But trust me, when you see those exquisite buildings and art, you'll feel it's all worth it! 💖

Every trip brings new experiences, but my visit to Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple was truly unforgettable. Zhenguo Temple's rich history is awe-inspiring. Built in 962, it has been rebuilt many times over the years. The 22 buildings, 56 painted sculptures, 100 murals, 20 steles, and iron bell are all witnesses to history. Shuanglin Temple is even more unique, with its side halls more impressive than the main hall. In the small, dark space, the statues seem to tell stories of the past. The painted sculptures in the Hall of a Thousand Buddhas are especially exquisite. Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple are like two pearls, leaving visitors reluctant to leave. The buildings and sculptures are rich in cultural connotations, showcasing the charm of ancient Chinese culture and art. If you want to experience the unique charm of ancient Chinese culture and art, don't miss Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple. Start your cultural journey today!

Shanxi, China If you go to Shanxi, you must visit Zhenguo Temple. The temple was originally named Jingcheng Temple, and was renamed Zhenguo Temple during the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty. It has been in use ever since. The temple was first built during the Five Dynasties period, and has a long history.

🥰Attraction name: Zhenguo Temple (Although it is very ordinary, many people may have searched for it when they went to Pingyao, but it is really worth going to. It is about a 20-minute drive from the ancient city.) 📍Attraction address: Located in Haodong Village, 15 km northeast of Pingyao County, Shanxi Province, it was built in the 7th year of the Tianhui period of the Northern Han Dynasty in the Five Dynasties. It is a World Heritage Site and a rare cultural relic protection unit. 🚗Attraction transportation: You can take a taxi from Pingyao Ancient City, or you can charter a car to go together, and you can also visit the nearby Shuanglin Temple, which is very convenient. 👍️Must-see: 1. Wanfo Hall. Although it has been rebuilt many times in successive dynasties, it still retains the style of the Five Dynasties. It is one of the three existing Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples. It is all wooden and very rare, and it is well preserved. The colored sculptures inside are the only Five Dynasties works preserved in the temples in China, which are very precious! 2. Dizang Hall. I personally prefer this building, which was built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. Inside the hall, the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva sits cross-legged, with a calm and deep expression. The unique delicate face of the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is also very charming. The statues of the ten Yama Kings on both sides are either gentle and refined or furious, all very vivid. 🎟️Ticket information: CNY 23

Some friends complain that the bus to Zhenguo Temple is hard to catch, so here's a bus schedule to make your trip easier. 📍[Shuanglin Temple] Near Pingyao Ancient City Station, in the southwest corner of the ancient city, take Bus 108 North Line for CNY 1, about every 30 minutes. 📍[Zhenguo Temple] In the northeast of Pingyao Ancient City, take Bus 209 for CNY 3, about every 1 hour. Bus company departure times: 7:00, 8:00, 8:55, 9:50, 10:50, 12:00, 13:30, 14:30, 15:20, 16:10, 17:00, 18:00 Zhenguo Temple return times: 9:05, 10:00, 11:55, 13:05, 15:35, 16:25, 18:05, 19:20 📝Tips: 1. It's recommended to visit Zhenguo Temple in the evening, when the sunset light on the buildings is beautiful. 2. During holidays, a special Shuanglin Temple–Zhenguo Temple line will be opened, and normal lines may be changed due to traffic jams. Any bus driver will know the new route, so don't trust the map. 3. There are two train stations in Pingyao. Pingyao Station is a regular station near the ancient city, and Pingyao Ancient City Station is a high-speed railway station. Don't get them mixed up. 4. To get from Shuanglin Temple to Zhenguo Temple, don't transfer at the bus company. Choose the north gate of the ancient city, except during holidays.

Zhenguo Temple, hidden in the quiet northeast of Pingyao County, Shanxi Province, is a Buddhist holy place with a thousand-year history. Built during the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties, it has withstood the test of time and still retains the architectural style of the Five Dynasties, making it a treasure of ancient Chinese architecture. The temple is divided into two parts: the front and rear, with the Ten Thousand Buddha Hall in the front and the Three Buddha Hall in the back. Entering the temple, you will find ancient trees towering and a serene and elegant atmosphere. The Ten Thousand Buddha Hall, as the core building of the temple, showcases exquisite wooden construction techniques and grandeur, reflecting the wisdom and craftsmanship of ancient artisans. The painted sculptures in the temple are unparalleled, with vivid Buddha statues in various shapes and colors, seemingly telling Buddhist stories from a thousand years ago. Zhenguo Temple is not only a pilgrimage site for Buddhist believers but also an important place for studying ancient Chinese architecture, sculpture, and Buddhist culture. Every brick, tile, plant, and tree here exudes a sense of history and cultural charm, attracting countless visitors. Strolling through Zhenguo Temple feels like traveling through time to an ancient and mysterious era, experiencing the profoundness of Buddhist culture.

| Shanxi Pingyao | Zhenguo Temple. The temple buildings of Zhenguo Temple face south, and are divided into two courtyards. Along the central axis from south to north, there are the Heavenly King Hall (with a bell tower and drum tower on both sides), the Ten Thousand Buddha Hall and the Three Buddha Hall. In the backyard, there are the East Side Hall Guanyin Hall and the West Side Hall Dizang Hall, with a total construction area of 1,702 square meters. The existing buildings in the temple, except for the Ten Thousand Buddha Hall, all retain the architectural style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. 💫The Ten Thousand Buddha Hall was rebuilt in the seventh year of Tianhui in the Northern Han Dynasty (963 AD), and was built by the emperor. It has a rigorous layout and is one of the very few Five Dynasties buildings in China. It is also a wooden building from the Ten Kingdoms period that is contemporary with the Five Dynasties. The Ten Thousand Buddha Hall is three rooms wide and three rooms deep, with a nearly square plane, a single eave and a hipped roof. The flying eaves and brackets are tall and high, and the height of the paving is 187 cm, accounting for more than half of the height of the column! It is similar to the height and proportion of the paving and columns of Tang Dynasty buildings. However, because the overall building of the Ten Thousand Buddha Hall is not high, you can watch the brackets at close range, which is very shocking and an unprecedented experience! The 11 Buddha statues in the hall are also works of the Five Dynasties and have high cultural relic value. It is interesting to observe different statue styles under different aesthetic influences. The four walls and eye walls of the hall are painted with Ten Thousand Buddha Pictures (810 statues), all of which are works of the Qing Dynasty. 💫The Three Buddha Tower was created in the Ming Dynasty, and the hall houses Ming Dynasty colored sculptures and murals. Although the statues are damaged, they are beautifully shaped. The backlight woven with copper wire shows the excellent craftsmanship of the Ming Dynasty. It is a typical early Ming Dynasty work. The two mountain wall murals are in the form of comic strip murals, depicting the life of Sakyamuni, with simple and sophisticated techniques and complete preservation. 【Practical Information】 ⛳️Address: Zhenguo Temple, Haodong Village, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City (about 12 kilometers from Pingyao Ancient City) 🕰️Opening hours: 8:00-17:30 🎫Admission ticket: ¥23 🚘Transportation: ① It costs about 30 to take a taxi from Pingyao Ancient City; ② Bus No. 108 to No. 209 (the bus is long and inconvenient) 🕰️Recommended tour duration: 1-2 hours

Zhen Guo Temple is located in Haodong Village, 15 kilometers northeast of Pingyao County, Shanxi Province. Originally named Jingcheng Temple, it was built in the seventh year of the Tianhui period of the Northern Han Dynasty during the Five Dynasties (963 AD). It was renamed Zhen Guo Temple during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has been used ever since. Zhen Guo Temple faces south and is composed of two courtyards, covering an area of 10,892 square meters and a building area of more than 5,000 square meters. The ancient buildings in the temple are mostly Wanfo Hall, which was built during the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties. It is one of the oldest existing wooden structures in China and has important historical and artistic value.

The only remaining Buddha statue from the Five Dynasties period in China, with a history of over 1,000 years, Zhenguo Temple has no pillars. Zhenguo Temple is located in Haodong Village, northeast of Pingyao County. It was first built in the 7th year of the Tianhui era of the Northern Han Dynasty and was rebuilt in the 21st year of the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty. Zhenguo Temple in Pingyao is an ancient wooden structure that is only later than Nanchan Temple and Foguang Temple. It is an ancient temple from the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period and a unique and precious architectural and colored sculpture relic. The existing Wanfo Hall on the central axis, Five Dynasties sculptures, Jin Dynasty iron bell, Yuan Dynasty building gate, and Sanfo Tower colored sculptures and murals Wanfo Hall It is one of the three existing Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples and has a history of over 1,000 years. The colored sculptures in the hall are the only remaining Five Dynasties sculptures in the country. The flying eaves of the main hall are nearly 2 meters, and the hall as a whole presents a precise beam structure from the Five Dynasties period. It is three rooms wide and deep, with a single eave and nine-level hip roof. The 12 hall pillars are wrapped in the wall, presenting a visually pillarless hall. There are 14 precious statues in the hall, 11 of which are works from the Five Dynasties period. They have been preserved for a thousand years and the colors are still vivid. The statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is in the center, surrounded by disciples. The colors are strong and still clearly visible today. It is the only remaining Five Dynasties work in Chinese temples. Heavenly King Hall This Zhenguo Temple gate was built in the Yuan Dynasty, and the two sides of the hall are decorated with colored sculptures of the Four Heavenly Kings. Sanfo Tower was built in the Ming Dynasty, and the tower houses Ming Dynasty colored sculptures and murals. Admission: CNY 23 Transportation: Route 209, CNY 3

Zhen Guo Temple, a thousand-year-old temple hidden in Haodong Village, Pingyao County, Shanxi Province, quietly tells the story of the vicissitudes and glory of the years with its long history and profound cultural heritage. It is not only a holy place in the hearts of Buddhist believers, but also a location for Black Myth: Wukong! 【Attraction Highlights】 ✓Zhen Guo Temple is famous for its well-preserved Five Dynasties architecture, especially the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, which is known as the "treasure of ancient Chinese architecture". Its bucket arch structure is exquisite, showing the superb skills of ancient Chinese architecture ✓The Buddha statues in the temple are of various shapes and lifelike, whether it is the compassionate Guanyin or the majestic Sakyamuni, it makes people feel the profoundness and breadth of Buddhist culture ✓The murals in the temple are colorful and smooth, vividly depicting Buddhist stories and historical legends, and are rare physical materials for studying ancient Chinese painting art 【Check-in Recommendation】 ✓Standing in front of Zhen Guo Temple, overlooking the entire temple, the simple architecture and the surrounding green trees are interesting, forming a picture of tranquility and harmony, which is an excellent place to take ancient style photos ✓Walk into the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, admire the exquisite bucket arch structure and simple Buddha statues up close, feel the solemnity and mystery of the thousand-year-old temple, and the photos taken are full of historical charm ✓Stroll in the corridors and courtyards of the temple, feel the tranquility and peace, take some detailed photos, such as carved window lattices, simple steles, which can add a cultural atmosphere to your circle of friends

Pingyao Shuanglin Temple Travel Guide 🎈 ✨ Shuanglin Temple is one of the key Buddhist temples in the Han Chinese region and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site along with Pingyao Ancient City and Zhenguo Temple. It is renowned as the "Treasure House of Oriental Painted Sculptures," with its exquisite painted sculptures leaving visitors in awe. 📍 Location: Qiaotou Village North, Zhongdu Township, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province. 🕙 Opening Hours: 08:00-19:00 (Ticket sales stop 15 minutes before closing time). 🎫 Tickets: Full price ticket 35 RMB. 🚗 Transportation: • 🚌 Bus: You can take Pingyao Bus Line 108 North Line or Pingyao Bus Line 108 South Line to Shuanglin Temple Bus Stop and walk to the temple. • 🚕 Taxi: A taxi ride from Pingyao County costs about 20-30 RMB. 🌟 Main Attractions: • Hall of Heavenly Kings: Upon entering the castle-like arched main gate of the temple, the first sight is the Hall of Heavenly Kings, with a vertical plaque reading "Heavenly Realm of Tianzhu" hanging under the eaves. Under the eaves of the Hall of Heavenly Kings are statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, each about 3 meters tall, vividly lifelike. These statues break the usual terrifying and glaring image of temple guardians, instead portraying them with "human" characteristics of boldness and grandeur. • Shakyamuni Hall: In the hall, Shakyamuni sits high in the center, flanked by Manjushri and Samantabhadra. The walls of the hall depict the story of Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, from his birth to his nirvana and enlightenment, and his teachings to save all beings. Over 200 figures with different identities and expressions are intricately designed. Behind the screen wall of Shakyamuni Hall, there is a statue of Guanyin sitting on a red lotus platform surrounded by waves, a typical example of Shuanglin Temple's painted sculptures. • Mahavira Hall: The tallest building in the temple. Rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty using the original foundation, but not as grand as before. The main statues in Mahavira Hall are the "Three Buddhas," with Manjushri and Samantabhadra on either side. In front of the Three Buddhas stands a centuries-old iron-cast and clay-covered "Welcoming Buddha" statue, leaning forward, well-preserved. • Thousand Buddha Hall: The east wing is the Thousand Buddha Hall, a suspended mountain-style building with over 500 painted sculptures inside. Among them, the "Free Guanyin" has a plump and beautiful face, a relaxed and pleasant demeanor, breaking the traditional calm and reserved image. On either side of Guanyin are statues of Weituo and Yaksha. The Weituo statue on the left has an "S"-shaped body, combining strength and softness, dynamic in stillness, full of vigor and power. 💡 Travel Tips: • The painted sculptures in Shuanglin Temple are very precious. Do not touch, carve, or damage them during your visit. • It is recommended to learn some Buddhist cultural knowledge in advance to better understand the meaning behind the temple's architecture and sculptures. • Consider hiring a guide or renting an audio guide to gain a deeper understanding of Shuanglin Temple's history and cultural background. A guide costs about 20 RMB and provides detailed explanations. • Plan to spend 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the temple's architecture and painted sculptures. 📸 Nearby Attractions: • Pingyao Ancient City: About 6 kilometers from Shuanglin Temple, it is a World Cultural Heritage site and a national 5A-level tourist attraction with a long history and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient city wall, Rishengchang Exchange Shop, and the county government office. • Zhenguo Temple: Also a national key cultural relic protection unit, its ancient buildings and painted sculptures are of high artistic value, forming an important cultural landscape of Pingyao County along with Shuanglin Temple.

Black Myth is coming in hot, follow Wukong to tour Shanxi and appreciate the ancient architectural beauty behind the game. The eighth stop, explore Zhen Guo Temple, leisurely tour Pingyao. 🔥 Check-in Scenic Spot: Zhen Guo Temple 📍 Location: Haodong Village, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province ⏰ Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 🎫 Ticket: 25 RMB 🚗🚗 How to get to the scenic spot? ✅ Self-driving: Take the Dayun Expressway and exit at Pingyao, then navigate🧭 directly to Zhen Guo Temple. ✅ Public transportation: Take bus No. 9🚌 in Pingyao County to Zhen Guo Temple. 🌟🌟 Explore Zhen Guo Temple: ✅ One of the filming locations in the Black Myth game is Pingyao, and one of them is Zhen Guo Temple. The unique architectural style and profound historical heritage of the temple are evident in the game. In reality, it is even more awe-inspiring👍. ✅ When visiting Zhen Guo Temple, you can follow the central axis, which includes the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, the Hall of Three Buddhas, along with the Guanyin Hall and Dizang Hall, and the Bell and Drum Towers. The highlight is the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, which retains the style of the Five Dynasties period, and the colored sculptures inside, especially the golden body of Shakyamuni. ✅ The wooden structure of Zhen Guo Temple is also a marvel. The temple is entirely connected using mortise and tenon joints, showcasing unique ingenuity and wisdom. 📝📝 Travel Tips: ✅ Pingyao is truly a treasure city. While visiting Zhen Guo Temple, it is recommended to also check out nearby attractions such as Pingyao Ancient City, Shuanglin Temple, and Qiao Family Courtyard. ✅ Don't forget to taste Pingyao's special delicacies, such as Pingyao Bowl Cake, Taigu Cake, Fish and Sheep Bun, and Peach Blossom Noodles... 📣 Thank you for liking❤️, collecting, and following. For more notes🉑️, visit my personal homepage🔍. Shanxi Travel | Jinzhong Must-Visit | Filming Location Check-in

|Zhen Guo Temple in Pingyao. Shanxi Travel | Zhen Guo Temple in Pingyao Zhen Guo Temple, Shuanglin Temple, and Pingyao Ancient City jointly applied for World Cultural Heritage status. When traveling to Jinzhong, Shanxi, in addition to Pingyao Ancient City, Zhen Guo Temple and Shuanglin Temple are also worth visiting. Each has its own unique charm and historical and cultural value. Zhen Guo Temple is known for its profound historical heritage and ancient architectural style, while Shuanglin Temple is famous for its unique artistic style and exquisite Buddhist statues. Zhen Guo Temple is located in Haodong Village, 15 kilometers northeast of Pingyao County, Shanxi Province. It was built in the seventh year of the Tianhui period of the Northern Han Dynasty during the Five Dynasties (963 AD). It was originally named "Jingcheng Temple" and was renamed "Zhen Guo Temple" during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty, a name that has been used to this day. The temple has been rebuilt and renovated many times during the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The existing temple has two courtyards, facing south. Architecture: The Wanfo Hall is the main hall of the temple and the essence of the entire temple. It is nearly square in shape, with three rooms wide and three rooms deep. There is no moon platform in front of the hall, and the platform is relatively low. It has a single-eave hip and gable roof, large bucket arches, and deep eaves. The main room has a door, and the second room has a window sill. The shape is simple and it is an excellent ancient building from the Five Dynasties. Colored sculpture: The 11 colored statues in the Wanfo Hall are all original works from the Five Dynasties. In addition to a small number of colored sculptures from the Five Dynasties preserved in the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, the colored sculptures of the Five Dynasties in Zhen Guo Temple are the only remaining works in China. They occupy a high position in the history of Chinese art and sculpture and are of great value. The 11 statues from the Five Dynasties in the Wanfo Hall include one Buddha, two disciples, two bodhisattvas, two attendants, two vajras, and two donors. Each statue is lifelike. The main statue is the Buddha Sakyamuni, who is dressed in gold, looks natural, and is full of majesty and sanctity.

Zhenguo Temple was first built in the seventh year of Tianhui during the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties period (963 AD). Initially named 'Jingcheng Temple,' it was renamed 'Zhenguo Temple' during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has retained this name to the present day. The temple has undergone multiple renovations and reconstructions during the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. The existing temple complex consists of two courtyards, facing south with the main structures oriented north. Among the existing wooden structures in China, Pingyao's Zhenguo Temple is second only to the Nanchan and Foguang Temples on Mount Wutai, making it one of the oldest wooden structures in China. The earliest building in the complex is the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas. Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, it still retains the style of the Five Dynasties period and is one of the three existing Five Dynasties structures in Chinese Buddhist temples. The colored sculptures within are the only surviving Five Dynasties works in temple halls across the country. The eaves of the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas extend nearly 2 meters. The hall's overall 'beam frame' structure is meticulously crafted, preserving the wooden architectural framework from over a thousand years ago during the Five Dynasties period (907-960 AD). Inside the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, visitors can admire 14 precious statues, 11 of which date back to the Five Dynasties period. Despite the passage of a millennium, these statues remain vividly colored and are masterpieces of ancient sculpture art. Among these statues, four statues of Bodhisattvas are particularly unique. Two seated Bodhisattvas are dressed in tightly fitted garments, with full cheeks, serenely seated on lotus pedestals; the other two Bodhisattvas stand casually to the side, with full figures and graceful 'S'-shaped curves, exuding a sense of freedom and embodying the delicate femininity characteristic of ancient women. This form contrasts sharply with the traditional, dignified image of Bodhisattvas, resembling more a graceful dancer. In the middle tower in front of the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, there is an iron bell from the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234 AD). It is said that the bell's sound can be heard dozens of miles away in Pingyao City. The walls of the Three Buddhas Hall behind the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas are covered with vivid and detailed Buddhist story paintings from the Ming Dynasty.

If you are interested in ancient architecture, Buddhist culture, and historical relics, Zhenguo Temple is a good place to visit. Transportation: Bus: You can take bus 209 from the north gate of Pingyao Ancient City to the entrance of Zhenguo Temple, 4 yuan per trip, one bus every 40 minutes (the noon bus interval is doubled). Visiting Time: Zhenguo Temple is not large, generally, it can be toured in 1-3 hours. Main Attractions: 1: Tianwang Hall: Located at the front of the temple, it is a wooden structure building from the Yuan Dynasty. 2: Wanfo Hall: The main building in the front yard, it is one of the oldest existing wooden structures in China. Although not large in scale, it is majestic and imposing. 3: Sanfo Tower: The main building in the backyard, built in the Ming Dynasty, and still has murals from the Ming Dynasty. 4: Murals.

💖Recommendation Reason: Zhenguo Temple in Pingyao, Shanxi, was built in the seventh year of the Tianhui era of the Northern Han Dynasty (963 AD) by royal decree. The Ten Thousand Buddha Hall is a relic from the Five Dynasties period. Despite undergoing multiple renovations, it still retains the style of the Five Dynasties. It is one of the three existing Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples. The colored sculptures inside are the only surviving Five Dynasties works in temple halls nationwide. Its structure is unique, the craftsmanship is exquisite, and the mechanical principles are ingenious. It is one of the earliest existing wooden structures in China, built entirely with mortise and tenon joints without a single nail, making it the best in the country. It is hailed as an immortal work in the history of ancient architecture worldwide. On December 3, 1997, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee listed the "Ancient City of Pingyao" in the World Heritage List, with Zhenguo Temple being one of the items. 📍Address: Haodong Village, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province 🚖Transportation: Zhenguo Temple is 15 kilometers away from the Ancient City of Pingyao. However, it is not easy to get a car here, so it is recommended to hire a car from the Ancient City of Pingyao. 💰Cost: The entrance fee is 25 yuan per person, which is very cost-effective. Two hours is enough to tour inside.

Zhen Guo Temple, located to the northeast of Pingyao County, was founded in the seventh year of Tianhui (963) during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period under the Northern Han Dynasty, originally named Jingcheng Temple. It was renamed 'Zhen Guo Temple' during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has been known as such ever since. 📜 The Construction of Zhen Guo Temple After the fall of the Tang Dynasty, China entered the period of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, among which the Northern Han was one, with the smallest territory nestled between the Song and Liao Dynasties, in what is now the central and southern part of Shanxi. The saying 'leaning on the great Liao for a cool shade' reflects that the Northern Han persisted until the end among the states that were annexed by the Later Zhou (Northern Song). Neither Emperor Chai Rong of the Later Zhou nor Emperor Zhao Kuangyin of the Song Dynasty could conquer it, until Emperor Taizong of Song (Zhao Guangyi) finally succeeded after several failed attempts and resorting to setting Jin Yang city ablaze and flooding it. During the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, as well as the Northern and Southern Dynasties, wars were frequent, people's lives were hopeless, and they placed their hopes in the afterlife. Buddhism naturally became the best spiritual fortress. Hence, the numerous Buddhist statues known as the 'Smile of Northern Qi' appeared, indicating that the ruling class lacked ambition and focused on extensively building temples. To use a line from the movie 'Infernal Affairs,' it was a case of 'May Buddha bless us!' 🌈 Highlights of Zhen Guo Temple · The oldest building in the temple, the Wanfo Hall, is one of the three ancient Five Dynasties buildings in the country; · The colored sculptures in the Wanfo Hall are the only Five Dynasties works preserved in temple buildings nationwide; · The Heavenly King Hall from the Yuan Dynasty; · The Three Buddha Pavilion (murals recommended), Erlang Hall, and Earth God Hall from the Ming Dynasty; · The Guanyin Hall, Ksitigarbha Hall, and Sanling Hall from the Qing Dynasty...

✅Zhenguo Temple in Pingyao was founded in the seventh year of Tianhui during the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties, originally named "Jingcheng Temple". It was renamed "Zhenguo Temple" during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has a history of over 1400 years. ❤Treasures of Zhenguo Temple: ✅1. The Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas The Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas is the main hall of Zhenguo Temple, built in the seventh year of Tianhui (963 AD). Despite numerous renovations over the dynasties, it still retains the architectural style of the Five Dynasties. It is one of the three extant Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples and one of the oldest wooden structures in China, earning the reputation of a 'millennial treasure'. ✅2. Colored Sculptures The colored sculptures in the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas include only three figures sculpted during the Ming Dynasty and repainted during the Qing Dynasty. The rest are original works from the Five Dynasties, which are the only Five Dynasties works preserved in temple halls nationwide. They are also the only known Five Dynasties colored sculptures in China, apart from those in the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang. ✅3. The Half Stele The half stele in the east and west stele pavilions is a relic from the Five Dynasties, said to be the tombstone of Liu Chong's grandson, Liu Jiqin, from the Northern Han Dynasty. The incomplete inscriptions record the court struggles of the Northern Han regime. ✅4. Ancient Bell The iron bell hanging in the bell tower of Zhenguo Temple was cast in the fifth year of the Huangtong era of the Jin Dynasty, over eight hundred years ago. It is the oldest among the ancient bells of the temples in Pingyao and is rare throughout the country. ✅5. Millennium Ancient Scholar Trees There are two millennium-old scholar trees in the temple. The one on the west side is indistinguishable from ordinary scholar trees, while the one on the east side has twisted and interwoven branches, known as the "Dragon Scholar Tree", which is one of the great wonders of Zhenguo Temple. ✅6. Others Zhenguo Temple also houses the Yuan Dynasty Hall of Heavenly Kings, Qing Dynasty Four Heavenly Kings, Ming Dynasty Hall of Yama, Qing Dynasty colored sculpture murals, and more. ❤Tips: 1. This is a niche attraction. The temple is small and very quiet, without the smell of incense smoke. There are mostly individual visitors, and the guide provides detailed explanations about the history and features of the "Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas" and the colored sculptures inside. 2. The adult ticket price is 25 yuan, and it's free for people over 60 years old. 3. Parking is free. 4. The recommended visiting time is about 1 hour.

#familytrips2024 Our family excursion to Zhenguo Temple was a serene and culturally enriching journey into the heart of Buddhism and ancient Chinese architecture. As we entered the temple grounds, we were immediately struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the scent of burning incense wafting through the air. Walking along the stone pathways lined with centuries-old trees and traditional Chinese gardens, we felt a sense of tranquility wash over us. Exploring the temple halls, we admired the intricate wood carvings, colorful murals, and majestic statues of Buddha, each one a testament to the devotion and craftsmanship of generations past. Participating in a meditation session led by a resident monk, we experienced a moment of inner reflection and spiritual connection. It was a profound experience that left us with a deeper appreciation for the timeless teachings of Buddhism and the beauty of Chinese culture. As for our next dream destination, we've set our sights on the ancient wonders of Egypt. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the historic temples of Luxor, Egypt offers a treasure trove of archaeological marvels waiting to be explored. We envision cruising along the Nile River, exploring ancient ruins, and immersing ourselves in the rich history and culture of this fascinating land. Experiencing the bustling markets of Cairo, marveling at the beauty of the Valley of the Kings, and embarking on a desert safari to discover hidden oases and Bedouin villages will be an unforgettable journey of discovery and adventure amidst the timeless beauty of Egypt.

Shanxi has a strong appeal, and I'm still amazed by the photos upon reorganizing them. Compared to the delicacy of the south, the rough and profound charm here is absolutely soul-stirring😭. Retracing the Liang-Lin route, 🔎through ancient murals, temples, and colored sculptures, I experienced the millennium romance from the Northern Wei, Liao, Jin to the prosperous Tang dynasty, touching the pulse and backbone of culture. As many people have commented on Shanxi💁🏻‍♀️: When ancient buildings starkly appear before your eyes, the instant visual impact makes one lose interest in museums where the lights evenly illuminate the artifacts." 🙌4-day 3-night itinerary D1: Zhenguo Temple—Pingyao Ancient City—Majia Courtyard—Shuanglin Temple D2: Wang Family Courtyard—Datong Ancient City D3: Huayan Temple—Shanhua Temple—Yungang Grottoes D4: Yong'an Temple—Hanging Temple—Ying County Wooden Pagoda ✅Zhenguo Temple One of the few remaining Five Dynasties' colored paintings and wooden structures, an ancient temple of the Northern Han dynasty comparable to Dunhuang ✅Pingyao Ancient City The most completely preserved ancient county in China, a World Cultural Heritage site ✅Majia Courtyard (Pingyao Ancient City) A representative mansion of Pingyao's Jin merchants, with an observation deck overlooking the entire Pingyao ✅Shuanglin Temple Exquisite Yuan and Ming dynasty colored sculptures, Tang locust trees, Song dynasty steles, and Ming dynasty bells of great artistic value ✅Wang Family Courtyard in Shanxi Returning to the Wang Family Courtyard is like visiting a private Forbidden City, grand and solemn ✅Datong Ancient City Strolling through the Northern Wei capital, visiting the city walls, Drum Tower, Qian Tower, and Kui Xing Tower ✅Huayan Temple Following the Tang dynasty's style, Liang Sicheng called it a "unique masterpiece and a national treasure for a thousand years" ✅Shanhua Temple The largest existing Liao and Jin dynasty structure, with Rakshasa clay sculptures and Ming dynasty temple murals ✅Yungang Grottoes Carved by the entire Northern Wei nation, dedicated to the Northern Wei, a lifelong pilgrimage to Yungang ✅Ying County Wooden Pagoda The oldest and tallest existing wooden pagoda in China, known as the 'Dou Gong' museum ✅Yuanjue Temple Brick Pagoda A solid brick pagoda under Mount Heng with imitation wood eaves in the style of the Song and Liao dynasties ✅Yong'an Temple Yuan dynasty wooden architecture, Yuan dynasty murals, and calligraphic plaques, astonishing to behold ✅Hanging Temple Built in the late Northern Wei period, a 1500-year-old temple perched on a cliff ✅Datong Earth Forest A landscape formed by wind and water erosion, most enchanting at sunset on a clear day 🙌It's cold and windy in winter, remember to choose good weather, and be sure to keep warm. The attractions are far apart, so it's recommended to rent a car or hire a private car.

Shanxi is so powerful that you will be amazed again when you sort out the photos. Compared with the delicacy of the south, the roughness and heaviness here is simply breathtaking. Walk the Lianglin Road again, feel the romance of the Northern Wei, Liao, Jin to the Tang Dynasty in the murals, ancient temples, and colored sculptures, and touch the cultural context. As many people comment on Shanxi: 'When the ancient buildings appear naked in front of you, the visual impact of the moment makes people lose interest in the museum where the cultural relics are evenly illuminated by lights' 4 days and 3 nights itinerary D1: Zhen Guo Temple - Pingyao Ancient City - Ma's Mansion - Shuanglin Temple D2: Wang's Mansion - Datong Ancient City D3: Huayan Temple - Shan Hua Temple - Yungang Grottoes D4: Yong'an Zen Temple - Hanging Temple - Ying County Wooden Pagoda 🌈Zhen Guo Temple The only existing Five Dynasties colored painting and wood structure in China, an ancient temple of the Northern Han Dynasty comparable to Dunhuang 🌈Pingyao Ancient City The most intact ancient county in China, a World Cultural Heritage 🌈Ma's Mansion Representative of Pingyao Jin Merchant's Mansion, the viewing platform can overlook the whole Pingyao 🌈Shuanglin Temple Exquisite Yuan and Ming colored sculptures, Tang locust tree, Song stele, Ming bell have high artistic value 🌈Wang's Mansion If the Wang family returns and doesn't look at the courtyard, it is grand and solemn, known as the folk Forbidden City 🌈Datong Ancient City Wall Walk in the Northern Wei capital, visit the city wall, drum tower, Qian tower, Kui Xing tower 🌈Huayan Temple Liao inherited the Tang system, Liang Sicheng called it 'a unique product in the country, a national treasure for a thousand years' 🌈Shan Hua Temple The largest existing Liao and Jin building, with Rakshasa clay sculptures and Ming Dynasty temple murals 🌈Yungang Grottoes The Northern Wei Dynasty excavated the whole country, read all the volumes of the Northern Wei Dynasty, and only worshipped Yungang in his life 🌈Ying County Wooden Pagoda The oldest and tallest wooden pagoda in China, known as the museum of bucket arch 🌈Yuan Jue Temple Brick Pagoda A solid brick pagoda in the style of imitation wood and dense eaves under Mount Heng, inheriting the Song and Liao style 🌈Yong'an Zen Temple Yuan Dynasty wooden architecture, Yuan Dynasty murals, calligraphy plaques, amazing 🌈Hanging Temple Built in the late Northern Wei Dynasty, a 1500-year-old air loft on the cliff 🌈Datong Earth Forest The landscape formed by wind and water erosion is most charming when the sun sets on a sunny day It's cold and windy in winter, remember to choose good weather, be sure to keep warm, the attractions are far apart, it is recommended to rent a car or charter Shanxi is too much of a treasure, what other private attractions do you have, welcome to share 😘

🗺️🗺️【4 days and 3 nights route】 Day1️⃣: Zhenguo Temple-Pingyao Ancient City-Yima Family Courtyard-Shuanglin Temple Day2️⃣: Wang Family Courtyard-Datong Ancient City Day3️⃣: Huayan Temple-Shanhua Temple-Yungang Grottoes Day4️⃣: Yongan Zen Temple-Hanging Temple-Ying County Wooden Pagoda — 🚗🚗【About Transportation】 1️⃣It is recommended to choose to take a taxi🚗, with a wide range of routes, and there will be no traffic jams. 2️⃣It is recommended to choose to go to Taiyuan South Station or Taiyuan Station🚄, close to the city center, convenient transportation.👍 3️⃣It is recommended not to take a black car, it is easy to be pitted, and there is no security.🙅 — 🥘🥘【Shanxi Cuisine】 1️⃣Baked bun🫓: squid, chicken, sesame sauce is delicious 2️⃣Pingyao Beef🐂: Historical, fat but not greasy, lean but not firewood 3️⃣Taigu Cake🍪: It is a traditional famous dish in Shanxi, crispy but not hard, soft but not skin, beef sausage 4️⃣Fried Bowl Tuo🥣: Dong Fried Bowl Tuo's special food is a very famous snack 5️⃣Hunyuan Cold Noodles🍜: Yuan Liang has a history of thousands of years, add chili oil flavor one — 🌈🌈【Local Features】 1️⃣Shanxi's characteristic diet is mainly sour (vinegar), most dishes are not spicy🈚️, don't worry if you don't eat spicy 2️⃣Shanxi has a profound cultural heritage, and due to climatic conditions, cultural relics are easy to preserve, which means that Shanxi's ground cultural resources (statues, ancient buildings) are very rich. 3️⃣The prices in Shanxi are cheaper than those in first-tier tourist cities💰, of course, eating in scenic spots🍚 is still relatively expensive (per capita 50～100r💰).

Pingyao County is the second batch of China's historical and cultural cities, along with Lijiang Ancient City in Yunnan, Langzhong Ancient City in Sichuan, and Shexian Ancient City in Anhui, known as the 'Four Ancient Cities' that are best preserved in China. With a history of more than 2700 years, it is a county rich in cultural relics in Shanxi Province, with more than 300 ancient sites. The 'world-renowned' Rishengchang Bank is known as the 'ancestor of modern Chinese banks', Shuanglin Temple is praised by experts as the 'treasure trove of oriental colored sculpture art', and the Wanfo Hall of Zhenguo Temple is one of the earliest and most precious wooden structures in China. Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Pingyao via Shijiazhuang, about 6 hours. 597R Route: Pingyao City Wall—Pingyao Confucius Temple—City God Temple—Rishengchang—Shuanglin Temple—Zhenguo Temple Pingyao City Wall: The route to climb the city wall is from the entrance of Yingxun Gate, where you can enjoy the scenery of Pingyao while walking. When you get to the exit of Yunlu Street, go straight and you will soon reach the Confucius Temple. Pingyao Confucius Temple: The Confucius Temple is full of cultural atmosphere, and there is also the Dragon Gate symbolizing good luck. Remember to walk through it for good luck. City God Temple: The City God Temple is opposite the Confucius Temple, you can visit it on the way. The City God Temple has colored glazed tiles, and it is a unique combination of the City God, Kitchen God, and Wealth God temples. If you worship the Wealth God, you must not miss it. Rishengchang: The ancestor of modern Chinese banks, it was the first private financial institution in China that specialized in deposits, loans, and exchange business, pioneering the Chinese banking industry. At noon, I went to eat Kao Lao Lao, Pingyao beef, which has a unique taste. In the afternoon, I went to two temples. Shuanglin Temple: Shuanglin Temple faces south with the north behind, covering a large area. The western part is the temple yard, with ten halls and three courtyards. The front yard consists of the Sakyamuni Hall, Arhat Hall, Wusheng Hall, Earth God Hall, Yama Hall, and Heavenly King Hall; the middle yard consists of the Great Buddha's Hall and the Thousand Buddha Hall and Bodhisattva Hall on both sides; the back yard consists of the Goddess Hall and Zhenyi Shrine. The eastern part is mainly the Zen yard and the sutra room. Zhenguo Temple: The Wanfo Hall is one of the earliest and most precious wooden structures in China, with more than 100 existing murals, which are continuous and rich, worth seeing. In the evening, I went to eat Hongwuji's old vinegar braised beef, the meat was tender and the taste was great, after eating, I went to the high-speed rail station to go home.

Zhen Guo Temple in Pingyao, built in the seventh year of Tianhui in the Northern Han Dynasty of the Five Dynasties (963 AD), is one of the three existing Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples. It is said that the statues in the temple have not been attempted to be repaired in modern times and retain their original state, which is shocking. It is about ten kilometers away from Shuanglin Temple. It is one of the highly recommended temples.

The architecture of Zhen Guo Temple, with the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas as the earliest, is one of the oldest existing wooden structures, built in the seventh year of Tianhui in the Northern Han Dynasty (963 AD), known as the 'Millennium Treasure'. Despite numerous renovations over the generations, it still retains the appearance of the Five Dynasties, and is one of the three existing Five Dynasties buildings in Chinese Buddhist temples. The Five Dynasties colored sculptures of Zhen Guo Temple are the only remaining unique works in the country. The 11 Five Dynasties statues in the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas are all lifelike and vivid. It is the only Five Dynasties work preserved in the temples across the country. You can take bus 209 from both the south and north gates of the ancient city.

Zhen Guo Temple is located 15 kilometers northeast of Pingyao County, Shanxi Province, in Hao Dong Village. It was listed as a cultural relic protection unit of Shanxi Province in 1965, a national key cultural relic protection unit in 1988, and was listed as a World Cultural Heritage as an important part of the ancient city of Pingyao in 1997. Zhen Guo Temple, originally named Jing Cheng Temple, was renamed Zhen Guo Temple during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and has been used ever since. The temple is divided into two courtyards, the front courtyard has the mountain gate, the king's hall and the left and right bell and drum towers, the middle is the main hall also known as the Ten Thousand Buddha Hall, the back courtyard is the Guanyin Hall in the east, the Jizo Hall in the west, each with five rooms, and the Three Buddha Hall in the middle. Zhen Guo Temple, divided into two temples, has a total area of 10892 square meters. On the central axis, there are buildings such as the Heavenly King Hall, Ten Thousand Buddha Hall, and Three Buddha Tower. In the front courtyard, there are bell towers, drum towers, and halls of the Three Spirits, Wealth God, Erlang, and Earth on both sides. In the back courtyard, there are Arhat Hall, Yama Hall and other halls. The Heavenly King Hall, located at the front end of the temple, has four statues of Heavenly Kings, each with a majestic demeanor and full face. The Heavenly King Hall, with a single-eave Xieshan style roof, is a Yuan Dynasty building. On both sides of the Heavenly King Hall, the bell and drum towers stand opposite each other. The bell tower has a iron bell cast in the fifth year of the Golden Dynasty (1145 AD), which is elegant in shape, unique in craftsmanship, and a rare object in Pingyao County. From the inscriptions in the temple, it is known that during the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, the mountain gate, the king's hall, the bell and drum towers were created in the front, and the Three Buddha Tower and the east and west corridor rooms, Guanyin, and Jizo Halls were built in the back.

Zhen Guo Temple is a temple from the Five Dynasties period, which was first built in the seventh year of Tianhui in the Northern Han Dynasty (963 AD), and has been renovated and rebuilt many times during the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. The precious wooden structure of the Wanfo Hall from the Five Dynasties, with its complex structure, is the main highlight. The 14 Buddha statues in the Wanfo Hall are gorgeous and dazzling, influenced by the Tang Dynasty's colored sculpture style, their faces tend to be more human-like. They are the only sculptures left from the Five Dynasties period in China, apart from the Mogao Caves. The Yuan Dynasty murals in the Three Buddha Tower are also realistic and interesting, worth a closer look.

The Wanxiang Temple of Zhenguo Temple outside the ancient city of Pingyao was built in the 7th year of the Northern Han Dynasty in the Five Dynasties and Ten States. It has a history of more than 1,000 years and is one of the oldest existing wooden structures in China. Nanchan Temple and Foguang Temple, which are later than Wutai Mountain in Shanxi, are ranked third. As a short period of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms between the late Tang and the Song Dynasties, this Buddhist temple still retains a strong Tang Dynasty style. The single mountain is far-reaching and beautifully shaped, giving a majestic and imposing artistic beauty. Known as the "Millennium Treasure." It is commendable that the Wanfo Hall still retains the perfect five-generation color plastic sculptures. These colorful sculptures are original works of the Northern Han Dynasty Tianhui during the establishment of the temple. It is the only remaining five generations of colorful plastic products in addition to Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes. "Rare treasures", to be precious.