The Outstanding Universal Value of Mount Emei, Sichuan, China (Part 1)

Sichuan Province in China resembles the first Buddhist temple in the 1st century A.D. which was built around the peak of Mount Emei. Later, Mount Emei became one of the holiest sites for Buddhism through the building of other temples in the mountain. As centuries pass by, the value of cultural heritage massively increased. It is reported that some of the trees in the mountain is aged over a thousand years. Mount Emei is also categorized under the National Tourists Attraction Board, being awarded the highest value of Five A. This reflects the importance of Mount Emei as a tourist attraction and the cultural value it holds. Moreover, Mount Emei is also among the cultural heritage sites under the UNESCO.

Overview on the Value of Mount Emei

The building of Buddhist temple in Mount Emei is widely known as the blooming of Buddhism within the Chinese territory which later being spread to the East. These temples are highly recognized for its significant value as a top cultural heritage. The main temple in Mount Emei is Huazang Temple, which received its royal name in 1614. It was acknowledged as Guangxiang Temple in the past.

Through centuries, there were an additional of 30 other temples were built within the mountain, including the Wannian Temple, built during the 4th century, with its remarkable 7.85m high Puxian bronze Buddha. Later, the addition of Qinyin Pavilion in the early 6th century marks the outstanding building with its complex design of pavilions, towers and platforms. Also to mention are the Baoguo Temple and Fuhu temple which are located at the foot of mountain, built during the 17th century.

The architectural design of temples in Mount Emei reflects the creativity of people in the past on taking advantage of the mountain landscape. Most temples within the mountain are built on hillsides, applying the local traditional style design. The process of selecting the temple site, design and construction determines the building as the masterpiece of exclusive originality and inspiration. This became the specialty of Chinese temples architectural design where advanced building techniques are included.