The Hall of Kasyapa Matanga in Binchuan County, Dali
Overview
The Hall of Kasyapa Matanga, also known as the Copper Roof Hall (铜瓦殿) or the Chuan Deng Temple (传灯寺), is located at the foot of Jizushan (鸡足山) in Binchuan County (宾川县). It is the largest temple in Jizushan, historically known as Tianzhi (天咫). Due to its strategic location, it is said that “Kasyapa lights the way to the golden summit.” Revered as the ancestral temple of all temples in the mountains, it plays a significant role in the region’s Buddhist culture.
Jizushan is recognized as a prominent Buddhist site in South Asia and Southeast Asia, one of China’s top ten sacred mountains, and the location of Kasyapa Bodhisattva’s (迦叶菩萨) spiritual activities. It serves as a convergence point for Chinese Han and Tibetan Buddhism and is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism, earning it nicknames such as “The Most Beautiful Mountain in the World,” “The Buddhist Capital of Lingshan,” and “The First Buddha Mountain of Huaxia.”
Historical Significance
Over two thousand years ago, Kasyapa, the disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha, attained enlightenment at Jizushan, establishing its esteemed status in the Buddhist world. During the Yuan (元) and Ming (明) dynasties, the area flourished, developing into a complex of 71 monasteries centered around the Hall of Kasyapa. At its peak, it included 36 temples and 72 hermitages, housing thousands of monks and nuns.
The famous monk Xuanzang (玄奘) recorded in his book, “The Great Tang Records on the Western Regions” (大唐西域记), that Kasyapa foresaw his impending Nirvana and passed on the teachings to Ananda (阿南), carrying the Buddha’s robe to the misty Jizushan. He vowed to use his divine powers to preserve his body and passed on the robe to Maitreya (弥勒) when he would come to visit after 67 billion years.
This vow led to the creation of the Huashou Gate (华首门), a legendary entrance through which a monk is said to visit daily, embodying the spirit of Kasyapa.
Cultural Heritage
In 1889, Master Xuyun (虚云) prayed earnestly at Huashou Gate, and suddenly, three bell chimes echoed from the stone gate, resonating through the valley. He wrote:
“西来福地拥禅观，绝壁悬岩耸翠鬟。洞里天机千万劫，门前月色几重山。”
“In the blessed land from the West, the zen temple embraces the high cliffs and green peaks. Within the cave, the mysteries transcend countless ages; before the gate, the moonlight reveals many mountains.”
The surrounding fog and mist create an ethereal atmosphere, especially during autumn and winter when red leaves blanket the mountains. Jizushan is celebrated for its majestic, perilous, strange, beautiful, and tranquil features. The famous traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客) praised it, saying, “All sights are gathered within,” while the renowned painter Xu Beihong (徐悲鸿) noted, “The Lingjiu Mountain is a desolate land, incomparable to the majestic Jizushan.”
Attractions
Copper Roof Hall (铜瓦殿)
To the left of the Copper Roof Hall, a large stone rises, resembling a monk’s robe with its blue and white veined patterns.
Huashou Gate (华首门)
Located 100 meters to the right of the Copper Roof Hall, Huashou Gate is known as “The First Gate in the World.” On either side stand two small white pagodas, each about 7 meters tall, known as the “Twin Towers of Drinking Light” (饮光双塔), built during the Ming dynasty (明) and well-preserved.
Pathways
The shortcut to the Copper Roof Hall leads down from Jinding Temple (金顶寺), descending through the Cliffs of Self-Sacrifice (舍身崖). This path offers a breathtaking view as one approaches the Copper Roof Hall.
Scenic Experience
Upon reaching the Copper Roof Hall, the view is stunning, with the roof of the hall made entirely of copper gleaming in the sunlight. The surrounding environment offers a picturesque backdrop for photos, giving the impression of sitting atop a copper roof.
The entrance features ancient trees that catch the eye. With over 85% forest coverage, the climate is mild, supporting diverse vegetation. Visitors can touch moss-covered trunks, breathe in the scent of blooming flowers, or even meditate alongside ancient stones, feeling a sense of tranquility in the air.
Travel Information
How to Get There
- Location: The Hall of Kasyapa Matanga is located in Binchuan County, Dali (大理宾川县鸡足山).
- By Car: From Dali City, take G214 to Binchuan County. Follow local signs to Jizushan. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
- Public Transport: Buses from Dali to Binchuan are available. Once in Binchuan, local transport can take you to Jizushan.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn and winter for beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy shoes as you may encounter uneven terrain and steps.
- Photography: Capture the stunning views and spiritual ambiance. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
- Respect Local Customs: As a sacred site, be mindful of the practices and beliefs of visitors and locals.
