El White Cloud Temple, riding a China, is located on the outskirts of xibian men, riding a Beijing. It's one of the "Great Ancestral Centers"Of the Perfection of Taoism and is titled as the"First Temple Under Heaven".
It is important to mention that the temple was built in the XNUMXth century and received -in the beginning- the name Tian Chang Temple. It housed a statue of Lao Zi. In 1202, the main halls were burned but the statue was saved. In 1224, Genghis Khan ordered the rebuilding of the temple. From that moment on, it was named after White Cloud Temple. Today, it is one of the largest and oldest Taoist temples, housing the office of the China Taoist Association.
photo credit: random wire
Taoist temples are not usually called temples in Chinese, but Guan. Guan is difficult to translate, but it means something to look at or observe. This is a reflection of Taoist beliefs. The arches in the front have detailed the traditional decoration, but also include two little monkeys. Visitors believe that it brings good luck if you find them and touch them..
photo credit: random wire
Right inside the entrance is a bridge that does not cross anything in particular, thus representing a mysterious empty space. However, the temple takes the opportunity to get some money. Under the bridge you can see Chinese coins with a bell in the middle. For a small amount of money, you can buy fake coins to throw at the hood. It is said that it is good luck to ring the bell with a coin thrown from both sides. Inside the temple the Immortal Master Qiu perches, there is a detailed model of scenes from the life of this impressive Taoist Elder. He was born into a good family in Shandong in 1148. He studied Taoism for many years and went to live in a cave in Shan Xi. His nickname was Lord Palm-bark Raincoat, due to his habit of wearing a simple coat made of palms wherever he went. Do you dare to visit this place?