Shuanglin Temple
Shanxi Sheng
Shuanglin Temple, located in the countryside near Qiaotou village about 6–7 kilometers southwest of Pingyao in Shanxi Province, China, is a large Buddhist temple celebrated for its remarkable collection of more than 2,000 vividly colored clay statues dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries. Founded originally in 571 AD during the Northern Qi dynasty, the temple's current buildings mainly date from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Ancient City of Pingyao, alongside Zhenguo Temple and the ancient city walls. The temple complex features ten halls arranged in three courtyards, enclosed within a fortress-like compound wall. These halls house sculptures representing Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, heavenly generals, warrior guards, and common people, rendered in bas-relief, high relief, and circular forms, with intricate backgrounds depicting landscapes and daily life scenes. Notably, the Hall of the Devas displays sculptures of Vajrapani and the Four Heavenly Kings, while the Arhat Hall contains eighteen noble figures and a gilded Bodhisattva statue seated on a lotus. The temple is often called the "museum of coloured sculptures" and is regarded as one of the finest examples of Chinese colored sculpture art. Despite its cultural significance, many statues suffered damage during the Cultural Revolution, and preservation efforts face challenges due to environmental wear and maintenance issues. The temple's artistic and religious heritage offers a vivid insight into Chinese Buddhist culture and sculpture traditions across multiple dynasties.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Shuanglin Temple during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detailed sculptures and temple architecture. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long waits. Modest discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Wear comfortable footwear as the temple complex includes multiple halls and courtyards. Photography is usually allowed but check for any restrictions inside the halls. Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to better understand the rich symbolism and history of the sculptures.
Interesting facts
- •Shuanglin Temple houses over 2,000 colored clay sculptures, with about 1,650 still extant.
- •The sculptures include figures of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, heavenly generals, and common people, depicted in various artistic styles from Song to Qing dynasties.
- •The temple is nicknamed the 'museum of coloured sculptures' and is considered one of the finest examples of Chinese colored sculpture art.
- •The statues' eyes are made with glazed glass, creating a lifelike effect that seems to follow visitors.
- •The temple compound resembles a fortress with high earth walls and arrow slits built during the Ming dynasty.
- •The sculptures are displayed behind caged chambers arranged in tableaux, often with scenic backgrounds like flowing water or clouds, enhancing their visual impact.
History
Shuanglin Temple was founded in 571 AD during the Northern Qi dynasty, originally named Zongdu Temple.
It was renamed Shuanglin during the Northern Song dynasty, inspired by Buddhist scriptures.
The temple underwent significant reconstructions during the Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, with most existing structures dating from the Ming and Qing periods.
Throughout its history, the temple has been an important center of Buddhist art, particularly noted for its colored clay sculptures.
The Cultural Revolution caused damage and theft of many statues, but restoration efforts have helped preserve this unique heritage site.
Today, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the Ancient City of Pingyao, reflecting its cultural and historical importance.
Place Guide
Hall of the Devas
This hall features sculptures of Vajrapani and the Four Heavenly Kings, representing protective deities in Buddhist tradition.
Arhat Hall (Luohan Ting)Song to Qing periods
Contains eighteen sculpted Arhats depicted as noble, friendly figures with tightly carved garments. A notable gilded Bodhisattva statue is seated cross-legged on a lotus with a Sumeru throne beneath.
Hall of a Thousand BuddhasMing dynasty
Enshrines a statue of the dharmapala Weituo, a masterpiece of Ming dynasty Buddhist sculptural art, alongside feminine figurines in sitting postures and a chief deity posed over a coiled dragon.
Bodhisattva Hall
Houses the main Bodhisattva statues and numerous colorful sculptures depicting Buddhist figures and attendants, emphasizing artistic richness and religious significance.
Contact
Phone: 0354 577 9023