Baoguo Temple, situated in the Lingshan Mountain valley, 15 kilometers north of Ningbo, is the oldest and most completely preserved wooden construction in South China. With a history of 970 years, Baoguo Temple occupies an area of 13,000 square meters with a construction area of 6,000 square meters. It is a major historical and cultural site under State protection.

   History

As recorded by such chronicles as the "Ningbo Municipal Chronicle", "Cixi County Chronicle" and "Baoguo Temple Chronicle", Baoguo Temple was originally built in the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Since it was situated at the mid-point of Linshan Mountain, Baoguo Temple took up its former name, Linshan Temple.  

Complicated Dougong structure

Flanked by Xiangbi Mountain and Shiyan Mountain respectively, with Maofeng Mountain behind it, Baoguo Temple enjoys ultimate tranquility and absolute seclusion. In 845, Buddhism was abolished and Baoguo Temple fell into disuse. It was not until 880 that the temple was reconstructed and renamed Baoguo Temple. In 1065 the temple adopted the name Jinjin Yuan and later resumed the name Baoguo.

Gua-len pillar

Baoguo Temple is very famous for its incredibly high-skilled architectural feature. It originally consisted of major buildings, including the Mountain Gate and Grand Hall. The present palace was rebuilt in 1013 and is now the oldest and most completely preserved wooden Buddhist building of a unique design and impressive vigor. Its roof was renovated in the 23rd year of Kangxi's reign and took the shape of a gable and hip roof. Listed among the wonders of Chinese architectural civilization, the ancient palace is as impressive today as it was in the past and assumes high historic, artistic and scientific values.

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