Yuanzhao Temple
圆照寺
A Ming-dynasty temple south of Bodhisattva Summit that houses the stupa of the Indian monk Shrisena; with few visitors, it is worth a stop on the way.
Yuanzhao Temple lies on a hillside in the center of Taihuai Town, south of Bodhisattva Summit. During the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty, the Indian monk Shrisena came to Mount Wutai to teach the Dharma, and after his death part of his relics were interred here. The temple houses a Tibetan-style white stupa. Yuanzhao Temple later also became a Tibetan Buddhist temple, and its surviving Ming and Qing buildings include the Hall of the Heavenly Kings and the Mahavira Hall. The temple is not large and sees fewer visitors than nearby temples, so you can stop in on the way up to Bodhisattva Summit. A scenic area entry ticket for Mount Wutai is required (subject to the official announcement).
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–18:00 (follow temple notices)
Nearby sights
- Luohou Temple
- Pusading Temple
- Xiantong Temple
- Tayuan Temple & Great White Pagoda
- Wuye Temple (Wanfo Pavilion)
- Pushou Temple
- Shuxiang Temple
- Bishan Temple