Wenshu Monastery

Named after Manjusri, the bodhisattva of transcendent wisdom, Wenshu Monastery is one of the most important (and well-preserved) Zen Buddhist monasteries in China, and has been around almost as long as the religion itself.

Built during the Sui Dynasty (581-618), the monastery has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. The most famous of these being during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644, coincides with the early Ottoman and Mughal empires). After the destruction during the Ming Dynasty, it is said the monks continued sitting among the ruins chanting sutras.

The Monastery is also noted for hundreds of antique statues crafted from a variety of materials that have survived the past destruction better than the structure itself.

When visiting here, it is worth it to view the Temple and the Thousand Buddha Peace Pagoda then stroll through the gardens and enjoy a cup of tea in the tea garden.