Chinese Buddhism (V)

Author: China Buddhist Association
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: How to view the relationship between religion and culture is an issue that every nation inevitably encounters in the process of cultural development. Buddhism has had a significant impact and role on Chinese culture, leaving behind a splendid Buddhist cultural heritage in Chinese history. For example, ancient Chinese architecture preserves mostly Buddhist temples and pagodas. Existing structures such as the brick pagoda of Songshan Temple in Henan, the Tang Dynasty wooden structures of Nanquan Temple and Foguang Temple on Mount Wutai in Shanxi, the Yixian Wooden Pagoda, and the stone towers of Kaicheng Temple in Quanzhou, Fujian, are valuable physical remnants for studying the history of ancient Chinese architecture. Many Buddhist structures have become prominent landmarks in the landscape of various regions in China. Amidst lush greenery, hidden are red walls and green tiles, magnificent halls and pavilions. Exquisite Buddhist architecture adds endless spring colors to the vast and beautiful land. The caves of Dunhuang, Yungang, and Longmen are renowned worldwide as treasures of ancient sculpture and art. They absorbed features from Gandhara and India, evolving into a sculptural art with Chinese national style, and are part of China's great cultural heritage. Buddhism and Chinese Culture