Biyun Temple (碧云寺)

Biyun Temple, originally named Biyun Nunnery, was founded in the second year of the Zhishun era of the Yuan Dynasty, nearly 700 years ago. The temple, which faces east and covers an area of 40,000 square meters, had its architectural style primarily established during the Ming Dynasty. In the thirteenth year of the Qianlong reign in the Qing Dynasty, Biyun Temple underwent significant renovations. During this time, the Pagoda with Vajra-base was constructed according to the design offered by the temple monks, and the imperial palace and Arhat Hall were added, forming the temple's present-day structure.

Biyun Temple is an ancient temple with rich historical and cultural significance. It is not only a sacred site for Buddhist worship but also holds important historical memories of the Chinese Revolution. The temple was once the temporary resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's coffin, making it a site of great commemorative value.

Biyun Temple is divided into three main sections: the central route's main buildings, the Shuiquan Courtyard buildings, and the Arhat Hall buildings. The central route consists of six courtyards: the Mountain Gate, Mountain Gate Hall, Maitreya Hall, Mahavira Hall, Bodhisattva Hall, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and the Pagoda with Vajra-base, each forming a complete unit.

The architecture of Biyun Temple is unique. The Pagoda with Vajra-base is one of the main structures of the temple, towering into the sky with grandeur. The Five Hundred Arhats Hall is another significant building, housing five hundred Arhat statues that embody the essence of Buddhist culture. These buildings are valuable cultural heritage sites, allowing people to appreciate the charm of ancient Chinese architectural art.