Mt. Wutaishan represents some the holiest land in all of Chinese Buddhism. You can find over 40 spectacular temples in the area, including a few massive temples dating back almost 2000 years. Xiantong temple, the most prestigious of them all, houses seven palaces among its courtyards and a nearly ten-metric-ton copper bell (22 000 pounds) whose toll can be heard throughout the mountains.
The range includes ample hiking trails which lead to the unique formations that give the mountain its Chinese name: "mountain of five terraces." The peaks are joined by natural, high-altitude plains. The tallest peak rises to 3,061 meters (10, 043 feet) and is surrounded by rising ridges, exotic rock formations,
Location
Mt. Wutaishan lies in Wutai County in Xinzhou Region, Shanxi Province. It is rated on both the list of the first group of national scenic spots designated by the State Council, and the list of the Top 10 scenic spots in Shanxi Province.
History
The shrines on Mt. Wutaishan date back to the Eastern Han dynasty, the second Buddhist temple in China was built here at a time when Taoism dominated the area. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, when Buddhism held imperial favor, over 360 temples were built. The mountain also became an international destination point for Buddhists from other countries as they were drawn to the many temples as centers of learning.
Temple of the Pagodas
The Tayuan Si (Temple of the Pagodas) was built in Tibetan style in the Ming period, with a 50-meter high bulbous, whitewashed dome characteristic of the style. Behind the pagoda is a two story Ming-period library, which contains an older revolving sutra-case, holding rare religious texts.
Temple of the Manifestations
It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world. The visitors who come to Wutai Mountain should first show their respect to this temple. Its foundation dates back to the early years of Buddhism in China in the 1st century AD, though most of the present complex is Ming or Qing in date.
Measureless Hall
Named Wuliang Hall, it is an old building made of bricks. It also gets its name because it has no pillars. It contains two floors, 20.3 meters high. By relying on the opening between the arches, its strange structure has aroused much discussion. The artistic value of it has attracted numerous visitors.
White Pagoda
The 50m high Tibetan styled White Pagoda, designed by a Nepali in 1301, has become a symbol of Mt. Wutaishan. It stands on the grounds of Tayuan Temple, also in Taihuai. A marketplace forms around it with vendors selling incense, prayer beads, Buddhist booklets and bronze Buddha.
Admission Fee: 168 RMB (April –October); 140 RMB (November—March)
Opening time: The whole day