The White Pagoda in Beijing, located in the Miaoying Temple, is a famous Buddhist stupa built during the Yuan Dynasty in 1271. It was designed by Araniko, a Nepali architect, under the orders of Emperor Kublai Khan. This structure is a symbol of the cultural and artistic exchange between Nepal and China.
How It Was Built: Design: • The pagoda follows a classic Nepali stupa style, with a dome-shaped structure symbolizing the universe and enlightenment. • It stands about 50 meters tall, with a whitewashed surface and a golden spire at the top. • The base is octagonal, surrounded by intricate carvings and traditional Buddhist motifs. Construction Process: • Araniko led a team of artisans from Nepal, blending Newar architecture with Chinese techniques. • The materials used include white plaster and bricks, giving it a smooth, radiant appearance. • Sacred Buddhist relics were placed inside the pagoda during construction, making it a spiritual and cultural monument. Purpose: • Built to enshrine Buddhist relics and promote Buddhism in China. • It served as a spiritual center and a mark of Emperor Kublai Khan’s respect for Buddhist teachings.
Importance:
The White Pagoda is not only a masterpiece of architecture but also a symbol of friendship and cultural ties between Nepal and China. It remains a significant religious and heritage site in Beijing...
Read moreBeautiful temple with elegant intricate designs on the ceilings and roof. There are multiple halls and buddha statues in some, and a museum in one of them, explaining the history and construction of the temple. 20CNY entrance. If you want a quieter temple to visit in Beijing, consider this one. Lots of food options around, and also in a quaint...
Read moreThe temple houses the White Stupa built in the Yuan dynasty. The temple was rebuilt in Ming dynasty and named Miaoying Si. The architecture and interior design of the temple are very representative of the tradition of that time. The main images worshipped in the temple are the Shakyamuni Buddha, Bhaisaiya the Medicinal Buddha, and...
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