Zhutian Temple in Shiping County, Honghe
Overview of Zhutian Temple
Zhutian Temple, located on East Zheng Street (东正街) in Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), was originally established during the Yuan Dynasty (元代) and has undergone several renovations since then. Currently, the temple is home to the Main Hall of Great Hero (大雄宝殿), which faces east. The hall features a double-eaved pointed roof, measuring 12.9 meters wide, 11.5 meters deep, and over 10 meters high.
Yilong Town (异龙镇)
Yilong Town is composed of three townships: the original Yilong Town, Maohe Town (冒合镇), and Tao Village (陶村镇). It is situated in the central urban area of Shiping County, at the intersection of urban and rural regions. The town is located between longitudes 102°17′—102°37′ E and latitudes 23°29′—23°47′ N. It borders Baxin Town (坝心镇) to the east, connects with Niujie Town (牛街镇) to the south, is adjacent to Baoxiu Town (宝秀镇) to the west, and shares a boundary with Xinchang Town (新城乡) to the north.
Yilong Town is approximately 241 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming (昆明), and 149 kilometers from the prefectural capital, Mengzi County (蒙自县). The town stretches 23 kilometers from east to west and 24.2 kilometers from north to south.
Zhutian Temple, situated in Yilong Town, is recognized as an important Buddhist cultural heritage site, with a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and numerous followers. The architectural style of the Main Hall of Great Hero is unique and majestic, showcasing the depth and richness of Buddhist culture. Visitors to the temple can experience a strong religious ambiance, listen to the chants of monks, purify their hearts, and seek inner peace.
Key Attractions
- Zhutian Temple (诸天寺): A significant Buddhist site featuring the Main Hall of Great Hero.
- Yilong Town (异龙镇): A town that combines urban and rural elements with cultural heritage.
How to Get There
To reach Zhutian Temple in Shiping County, you can travel by road:
- From Kunming (昆明): Take a bus or drive along the highway, covering a distance of approximately 241 kilometers.
- From Mengzi (蒙自): The journey is about 149 kilometers by road, accessible by bus or car.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The temple is open year-round, but visiting during the spring or autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Local Culture: Respect the religious practices and customs while visiting the temple. Dress modestly and observe the silence within the prayer areas.
- Transportation: Public buses frequently connect Yilong Town with major nearby towns. Consider renting a bike or using local transportation to explore the area further.
- Accommodation: Plan your stay in advance, as nearby lodging options may be limited. Consider staying in Shiping County for more choices.
- Respect the Environment: Maintain cleanliness around the temple and in surrounding areas to preserve the site’s beauty for future visitors.
