It provides a great example of ancient technology in the service of the spiritual. From its name alone, you realize you should not miss the giant bell that this temple is famous for. The bell, is more than seven meters high, is believed to have been cast during the reign of the third Ming Dynasty ruler, Emperor Yong Le. Festooned, inside and out, with sacred Buddhist texts, its surface is covered with 22,799 Chinese characters. The original temple was built in 1733 and the 46-ton bell was installed 10 years later.

The present temple was rescued from ruin by the State during the 1950s, and was completely rebuilt. It houses bells from all over the geographical and chronological landscape of China. The oldest is a pottery bell more than 6,000 years old.
Admission: 10 yuan
Tel: 010-6255-0843

Edited by www.travel-silkroad.com
May 2001