Attractions >> Yunnan >> kunming Attractions

Yuantong Temple, Kunming

Yuantong Temple is seated at the southern foot of Luofengshan Hill. It is the biggest Buddhist shrine in Kunming. It was originally built over 1000 years ago during the Tang Dynasty. After two restorations and expansions in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the temple took on its present appearance, with covered corridors, bridges and grand halls.

This old Temple is famous for itsgrand architecture and design, which is high at the front and low at the back. The structure embodies the essence of the Tang architectural style. According to relevant records, the Meng royal family of Nanzhao Kingdom in the Tang Dynasty once built a temple called Putuoluo Temple on the present site. A giant Yuantong Hall was built in the monetary in the Yuan Dynasty, and it went through several renovations in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is the largest Buddhist complex in Kunming City proper.

Leading up to the main hall from the entrance is an extensive display of flowers and potted landscapes. The central courtyard holds a large square pond interested by walkways and bridge, and has an octagonal pavilion at the center. To the rear of the temple a new hall has been added, enshrining a statue of Sakyamuni, a gift from the king of Tailand.