Taohe Temple

　　Taohe Temple is an AA-rated scenic spot. Located within Xinmiao Town of Yijinhuoluo Banner, it nestles against the lush, shrub-covered loess highlands to the north; to the south lies Aoni Taohei, where springs gush forth like white hadas, hence the name Taohe Temple; to the east and west are the fertile grasslands of Boniu River. The temple complex covers an area of approximately 50,000 square meters. With a history of over 350 years, it has witnessed ten reigns of the Qing Empire, three presidents of the Republic of China, and three terms of nine leaders of the People’s Republic of China up to the present. The temple was once a grand religious complex centered around the Main Hall (Mahavira Hall), the Three-Story Temple, and three Lasheng (monastic colleges), accompanied by dozens of smaller halls and monastic dormitories, all harmoniously arranged with nine white stupas surrounding the site. From a distance, dense green pines and cypresses shade the sunlight, while deep in the foliage, white walls and green-tiled roofs peek through, with temple eaves casting slanted shadows and wind-bells gently chiming. Stepping inside, one encounters majestic shrines adorned with countless vividly crafted deities, each exuding an ethereal presence, as the scent of incense wafts continuously throughout the seasons. It became one of the key centers of religion, culture, and medicine in the Ordos region at the time. Unfortunately, it suffered severe damage during the unprecedented upheaval of the Cultural Revolution. Since the reform and opening-up, through the tireless efforts of monks and strong support from all sectors of society, the surviving structures—including the Main Hall, the Dharma Appearance Monastic College, the Kalachakra Monastic College, and the smaller symmetrically placed halls on both sides of the Main Hall—have been meticulously restored. In 2001, a white stupa was also erected, turning the site into a sacred destination for pilgrims of all ethnic groups to fulfill their spiritual aspirations. In recent years, visitors have come in an endless stream, making it an increasingly popular site.