History:

dates back to the late Northern Wei Dynasty (386- 534AD). It is an ancient Buddhist temple in Zhangye, Gansu Province that is best known for its colorful reliefs of Buddhas painted on the walls. The temple is said to have been built in 439, during the Northern Wei Dynasty, and expanded during the Sui and Tang Dynasties. The temple features giant sculptures of the Thousand Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, and other deities, as well as pavilions, gardens, and a hall of five hundred Arhats. It is one of the best temple in China which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Dafo Temple (Dunhuang Tianfo Si) is located in Zhangye, Gansu Province, China. 2. It was founded by the Tang Dynasty monk Huili during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong in 741 AD . 3. Dafo Temple is an incredible complex of Buddhist art and architecture, including caves, paintings, sculptures, and monk’s residences. 4. The architecture of the temple includes the Di Shao Da Buddhas, Thousand Buddha Hall, Reception Hall, Small Shrine and the Temple of the Eighteen Arhats. 5. Within the complex of the Dafo Temple, the Di Shao Da Buddhas, known for their varying sizes, traditions, and statue styles representing different ethnic Chinese artistic styles, is the most recognizable feature of the temple. 6. Dafo Temple is considered one of the most preserved Tang era complex still standing in China. 7. It is also considered to be a key site along the ancient Silk Road. Here are some facts about the China temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in China

Worship Method:

The Dafo Temple is located in Zhangye, China and is a popular Buddhist temple. The worship method at Dafo Temple is based upon Theravada Buddhism, which is the oldest extant Buddhist school. Worshipers at Dafo Temple make offerings of food, incense, and flowers, chant sutras and mantras, and sometimes make pilgrimages to the temple. There are three main methods of worship at the temple: 1. Worship of statues: Worshipers at Dafo Temple make offerings to the various statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other enlightened beings. Many statues can be found in the multiple courtyards, and these are usually placed on elevated platforms. Offerings may include gifts of food, incense, flowers, and/or candles. 2. Visiting monks: During certain times of the year, visiting monks can be found at Dafo Temple. Those wishing to pay respect to these monks can do so by making offerings of incense and flowers and presenting them with gifts. 3. Chanting mantras and sutras: Worshipers may chant sutras and/or mantras to the Buddha, bodhisattvas and other enlightened beings. Mantras and sutras are recited to help the worshiper become attuned to the enlightened mind. The chanting of mantras may be accompanied by offerings of incense and/or candles. This most visited temple in China

Opening Timing:

The temple is usually open daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm local time. top temples in China

How to reach:

? 1. By Air - The nearest airport to Zhangye is Zhangye Ganzhou Airport. After arriving at the airport, you can take a taxi or public bus to reach the Dafo Temple. 2. By Train - You can take a train from different nearby cities to Zhangye railway station. It takes about two-hours from Lanzhou railway station to Zhangye railway station. Once you have reached the station, you can take a taxi or public bus to reach the Dafo Temple. 3. By Bus - You can take a public bus or a hired vehicle to reach Zhangye from nearby cities. It will take about five-hours from Lanzhou City to Zhangye. After reaching Zhangye, you can take a taxi or public bus to reach the Dafo Temple. 4. By Car - If you have your own car, you can drive to Zhangye. It takes about six-hours from Lanzhou City. Once you reach the city, you can drive to the Dafo Temple. You can opt for GPS navigation or ask directions from the local people. famous temples in China