Built during the Liao Dynasty back in 1096, White Dagoba Temple in Beijing is comprised of a courtyard, Jvliu Shentong Hall, Qifo Hall, Yizhu Xinjing Hall and Tianwang Hall. Its main feature, the White Dagoba has five sections; a spire, a bronze canopy featuring 36 bronze bells, a steeple of 13 shrinking layers, a lotus bud shaped structure and a terrace platform. The uniqueness of this dagoba lies in the fact that it has a spire instead of a precious bead or a crescent moon like most of the dagobas. This spectacular and exquisite dagoba has a height of 50.9 metres. it is said to be the largest Tibetan-style Buddhist Dagoba of Beijing’s Yuan Dynasty.
The temple houses an exhibition on valuable cultural relics and Jvliu Shentong Hall which consists of wooden carvings of Medicine Buddha, Amitabha and Sakyamuni, has retained its original pattern. The exhibition on Tibetan Buddha statues features almost 10,000 gilded bronze statues created during the Qing, Ming and Yuan dynasties. All the cultural relics are noted for their good quality and the distinctive techniques used in their creation. Eight portraits of Tibetan Buddhism’s dharma protectors can be found on the west and east walls.
Some of the special cultural relics you will see at the top of the dagoba, include a colourful hada, a cassock adorned with jewelleries, a Buddha coronet, an exquisite golden statue of Buddha and sutras written by Emperor Qianlong.
The temple is also referred to as the Temple of Resourceful Response and was restored in 1271 by a Nepalese architect. Before coming under the Chinese State Department’s protection, the temple was subjected to destructions by fire. Owing to a number of subsequent reconstructions, the temple’s original glory has not been completely tarnished. This beautiful religious site is a must visit for those interested in experiencing the authentic cultural, historical and religious heritage of this region.
Travellers on the lookout for hotels in China, should look to none other than Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China. Boasting exemplary comforts and attentive service, some of the finest China hotels come under this popular hotel chain which ensures nothing less than a remarkable stay.