This Buddhist monastery in central Chengdu is dedicated
to the God of Wisdom - Wenshu and was founded during the Tang dynasty
(618-907AD). Most of the buildings date back to the 17th century
and today Wenshu Monastery is the largest temple in Chengdu with
almost 200 buildings within the complex.
The temples feature works of art, carvings and
over 400 Buddhist statues. More eccentric exhibits include a Bodhivista
embroidered from human hair, books written by 19th century monks
using their own blood and the skull of Xuan Zang a famous Tang dynasty
Buddhist master.
Wenshu Monastery is popular and busy and visitors
enjoy the lively atmosphere around the monastery where worshippers
buy incense, paper money and items to burn as offerings. Fortune
tellers and firework stalls all add to the lively atmosphere at
this well preserved temple.
