The temple lies on the northwestern outskirts of Kunming, some 8 miles (12 km) from the downtown area. Surrounded by wooded hills, the temple was built about 1280 at the beginning of the Yuan Dynasty by a famous monk. It was the first temple where Buddhism was preached to the believers in Kunming. The most spectacular attraction in this temple is the 500 life-size Buddha statues, which were the artistic creation of a well-known sculptor from Sichuan and his three apprentices. The work started in 1883 and was completed in 1890, in the reign of Emperor Guangxu, Qing Dynasty. Highly appreciated by tourists and artists both at home and abroad, this group of statues are reputed as "a pearl in the treasure-house of oriental sculpture".

Other Attractions of Kunming

Kunming Photo Gallery