Above Mount Xiang, Doushuai Temple

Author: Yang Yiwu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: Since the opening of Shangfang Mountain Temple in the second year of Emperor Xiaojing of the Eastern Wei Dynasty (535), it has a history of over 1,400 years. The accumulation of Buddhist culture over 1,400 years has made Shangfang Mountain a treasure trove of history and culture. This famous ten-direction monastery in Beijing is renowned for its beautiful forests and springs, and has produced many eminent monks. It was well-known in the northern region and had taken initial shape during the Sui and Tang dynasties. The Liao and Jin dynasties left behind magnificent traces, the Ming Dynasty saw its peak, and after the Qing Dynasty, it declined. Through the vicissitudes of time, prosperity faded away. Shangfang Mountain—this famous mountain of Buddhist culture. With only a few remaining Zen temples, the grandeur of yesterday has turned into historical remnants. Thus, as a cultural figure and the author of this book, I came to Shangfang Mountain, paying homage to the long-buried ruins, touching the moss-covered steles, and walking through the history of Shangfang Mountain in arduous journeys. In the colors of the records, I stitched together a tapestry of Shangfang Mountain's 1,400-year history, presenting to the world a true portrayal of its historical culture and cultural heritage. I dedicate "Shangfang Mountain Doushuai Temple" to the readers.