Centuries-old secrets at Xihuang Temple in Beijing

Nestled in the heart of Beijing lies a treasure trove of cultural heritage: Xihuang Temple. This architectural marvel, with a history spanning over 370 years, remained closed to the public for more than three centuries until 2018. It stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhism interwoven with Central Plains culture.

Formerly a sacred sanctuary reserved for imperial rituals, Xihuang Temple now welcomes visitors to unravel its mysteries and marvel at its opulent carvings and grandeur.

One such marvel is the Attire Pagoda of the late Sixth Panchen Lama. To celebrate the 70th birthday of Emperor Qianlong, the Sixth Panchen Lama arrived at Beijing in 1780 to extend his best wishes after one-year-plus odyssey. Unfortunately, he contracted smallpox and died at Xihuang Temple. In commemoration of his deeds, Emperor Qianlong had a pagoda constructed in his honor.

The architectural craftsmanship of Xihuang Temple is equally impressive. The stone archway, modeled after the architectural style of the then Central Plains, is also adorned with the eight auspicious symbols of Tibetan Buddhism.

Emperor Qianlong himself participated in the design of the pagoda, infusing it with his personal aesthetics. The lower part of the pagoda features the “Eight Stages of Buddha’s Life,” depicting the life of Shakyamuni Buddha from birth to nirvana. The carved figures all wear attire typical of the Central Plains, symbolizing the assimilation of cultural elements from different regions. Emperor Qianlong's diverse ethnic background—Mongolian, Manchu, and Han—contributed to his adeptness in incorporating elements of various ethnic cultures.

The temple, now a vibrant symbol of China's rich cultural heritage, stands as the foremost seat of learning for Tibetan Buddhist monks across the country. It is open to the public only on weekends, with a limit of three hundred visitors per day.