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The short film "Whispers of Masters: A Night at Shaolin" offers glimpses into several intriguing locations within the Shaolin Temple. In our previous episode, we explored the Sutra-keeping Pavilion and the Guanyin Hall. This brief introduction provides some historical context for the Pagoda Forest and the Drum Tower.
The Pagoda Forest
In the short film, the protagonist follows three masters from the mural to get to the Pagoda Forest. There, he's challenged by them, ultimately refining his kung fu skills.
Boasting the largest collection of ancient pagodas in China, the Pagoda Forest at Shaolin Temple showcases a rich history spanning multiple dynasties, from the Tang (618-907) to the Qing (1644-1911). More than 200 ancient pagodas stand alongside three modern ones, with the oldest verifiable brick pagoda dating back to 791.
The Drum Tower
At the climax of the short film, the protagonist, having lost his way in the Pagoda Forest, seeks the three masters atop the Drum Tower, the highest point in Shaolin Temple.
The Drum and Bell Towers, twin structures dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and rebuilt in the 1990s, stand between the Shanmen (main gate) and the Main Hall. Traditionally, Buddhist temples follow the practice of ringing a large bell in the morning and beating a large drum in the evening.
For more:
Exploring Shaolin's sacred halls in 'Whispers of Masters: A Night at Shaolin'
Trailer: Whispers of Masters: A Night at Shaolin
Whispers of Masters: A Night at Shaolin
SPARK: Everything you need to know about Shaolin
(All images are screenshots from the short film "Whispers of Masters: A Night at Shaolin," designed by CGTN's Yu Peng)