Puren Temple

Puren Temple

Puren Temple is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Guide

Puren Temple was built entirely in the style of the traditional Han Chinese Buddhist monastery layout known as the "Seven Halls of a Sangharama." The temple complex extends from south to north and includes the mountain gate, flagpoles, bell and drum towers, and more. The main hall is called the Mahavira Hall, bearing a plaque inscribed with the four characters “Ci Yun Pu Yin” (Compassionate Clouds Shelter All). Inside, the three Buddhas of the past, present, and future—Kasyapa, Sakyamuni, and Maitreya—are enshrined, flanked by statues of the Eighteen Arhats. In front of the hall stands a stele of Puren Temple, personally commissioned by Emperor Kangxi, which holds significant artistic value. Introduction

It is the earliest temple built among the Outer Eight Temples. Construction began in the 52nd year of Emperor Kangxi’s reign and was commissioned by Mongolian nobles and aristocrats who came to Beijing specifically for his 60th birthday celebration. It later became their gathering place. Originally, two temples were built: the front one named Puren and the rear one named Pushan. Both temple names were inscribed personally by Emperor Kangxi. Today, Pushan Temple no longer exists.

Chengde City, Hebei Province

Further Reading:

· Second Batch of Hebei Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units

· Fifth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units