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Tanzhe Temple: A sacred retreat in Beijing’s western hills showcasing China’s spiritual and cultural legacy

By Théophile Niyitegeka
On 14 June 2024 at 07:11

An oasis of tranquility, Tanzhe Temple in the southeast of Mentougou District, offers a serene escape from Beijing’s bustling urban life. Just a two-hour drive from downtown, this ancient temple embodies China’s rich Buddhist heritage and architectural grandeur. Its historical significance and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect destination for those looking to connect with China’s spiritual and cultural legacy.

Tanzhe Temple, along with Jietai Temple, is one of the most renowned and venerated temples in suburban Beijing. Spanning an inner area of 25,000 square meters and an outer area of 112,000 square meters, the temple complex is grand in scale and steeped in history. Nestled within Beijing’s Western Hills, the temple’s expansive grounds climb the hillside, shaded by towering cypresses and pines.

Dating back to the Jin dynasty (AD 265–420), Tanzhe Temple reached its zenith during the Qing dynasty, becoming a royal pilgrimage site for emperors Kangxi and Qianlong. The temple’s layout follows three main axes, with the central axis featuring the Mahavira Hall as its centerpiece. Behind this hall stands the ’Emperor Tree,’ a majestic gingko believed to be over 1000 years old.

Among the ancient trees in Tanzhe Temple, the most famous is the 1,400-year-old ginkgo known as the "Emperor Tree," planted during the Tang Dynasty. Standing over 40 meters tall with a diameter exceeding 4 meters, it takes six or seven people to encircle its trunk. Legend has it that during the Qing Dynasty, the tree grew a new branch each time a new emperor ascended the throne, with the branch eventually merging with the old trunk. Emperor Qianlong named it the "Emperor Tree" during his visit.

In the early 1960s, Aisin Giorro Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, visited Tanzhe Temple as a common citizen. Pointing to an unmerged branch, he humorously remarked, "I am this small tree. It grows up twisted because I am worthless."

The Emperor Tree is renowned and deeply revered. Some visitors often hug it, believing its ancient presence and sacred location bring spiritual benefits and longevity.

At the rear of the complex, the Guanyin Pavilion offers breathtaking views of the temple and the surrounding mountains. Within this pavilion, a stone slab bears the footprints of Princess Miaoyan, Kublai Khan’s daughter, who, according to legend, was so devoted to Buddha that her incessant praying wore deep ruts into the stone.

The western axis of the temple includes the octagonal Lengyan Altar, while the eastern axis houses the abbot’s quarters, historically used by visiting emperors. Another intriguing feature is the Floating Cups Pavilion, a Qing-era water feature that also served as an ingenious drinking game.

Tanzhe Temple is particularly enchanting in mid-April when the magnolias are in full bloom, drawing visitors from near and far to witness the stunning floral display.

Tanzhe Temple, with its rich history, cultural significance, and natural beauty, provides a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and a glimpse into China’s profound spiritual legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of tranquility, Tanzhe Temple is a must-visit destination in the outskirts of Beijing.

The quietude of the temple grounds, interrupted only by the rustling leaves and distant chants, creates an atmosphere of deep spiritual reverence.
Tanzhe Temple is particularly enchanting in mid-April when the magnolias are in full bloom, creating a stunning floral display that attracts visitors from near and far.
Once a favored pilgrimage site for Qing emperors Kangxi and Qianlong, Tanzhe Temple's grandeur and historical significance remain evident in its sprawling complex.
Walking through Tanzhe Temple, visitors can almost hear the echoes of the past, from royal pilgrimages to everyday devotions.
The temple serves as a sacred place for Chinese people.
Just a two-hour drive from downtown Beijing, Tanzhe Temple offers a serene and historical escape from the urban hustle, perfect for a day of reflection and exploration.
The temple's rich history and architectural beauty provide a deep connection to China's cultural and spiritual past.
Tanzhe Temple's peaceful surroundings and historical depth make it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual connection and tranquility.
The harmonious blend of natural beauty and architectural brilliance at Tanzhe Temple creates a sanctuary where one can find solace and inspiration.
The seamless integration of traditional Chinese architecture with the natural landscape at Tanzhe Temple exemplifies the harmonious balance sought in Buddhist philosophy.
This 1,400-year-old emperor’s tree planted during the Tang Dynasty has a massive trunk that can be encircled by six or seven people.
In the early 1960s, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Aisin Giorro Puyi, humorously remarked on the Emperor Tree's unmerged branch during his visit.
The Emperor Tree, named by Emperor Qianlong, is a symbol of the temple's royal connections and enduring legacy.
The 'Emperor Tree' is well preserved to uphold the temple's historical and cultural legacy.
Visitors often hug the Emperor Tree, believing in its spiritual benefits and the ancient presence it embodies.
From its origins in the Jin dynasty to its zenith during the Qing dynasty, Tanzhe Temple has played a pivotal role in China's spiritual and cultural legacy.
The ’Emperor Tree’ was planted during Tang Dynasty.
The serene pathways of Tanzhe Temple, lined with ancient stones and lush greenery, offer a peaceful stroll through centuries of Buddhist heritage.
The temple's expansive grounds, climbing the hillside, provide a tranquil retreat shaded by ancient cypresses and pines, perfect for a peaceful escape.

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