The Millennial Mystery ~ Princess Temple

On the journey, the most captivating sights are those ancient relics hidden deep in time, exuding a unique charm. This trip began with a visit to Yanshan Temple, followed by a 37-kilometer westward drive along winding roads to reach Princess Temple, located in Princess Village, Xingyuan Township, Fanshi County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province. This temple is also a national key cultural relics protection unit. It was originally built during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Legend has it that Princess Chengxin of the Northern Wei Dynasty chose to become a nun here to escape the suffering of the mortal world, and the temple was thus established. It was later destroyed by war and rebuilt under the decree of Empress Wu Zetian during the Tang Dynasty. The current Mahavira Hall was renovated in the first month of the 16th year of the Hongzhi era (1503) in the Ming Dynasty, while the Vairocana Hall was renovated in the third lunar month of the first year of the Zhengde era (1506) in the Ming Dynasty. Though small in size, Princess Temple boasts a compact and well-proportioned layout. The first thing that catches the eye is its ancient architecture, with its upturned eaves, intricate brackets, and carved beams—despite the erosion of time, the refinement and splendor of its heyday remain evident. The most striking feature inside the temple is the nearly 100-square-meter Water-Land Murals in the Mahavira Hall. Painted in the 16th year of the Hongzhi era, these murals, though over 500 years old, remain largely clear and vibrant, preserving the original appearance of Ming Dynasty murals. The more than 480 figures depicted are vividly characterized, with expressive faces and attire distinctly representative of the Ming Dynasty. Upon closer inspection, each scene seems to tell a story, with lifelike figures—some solemn and dignified, others kind and gentle, and some glaring in anger—as if transcending time to vividly showcase the social customs and religious culture of the Ming Dynasty. The artists' exquisite craftsmanship is astounding, as their delicate brushwork and rich colors breathe eternal vitality into these murals. Beyond the murals, the temple's architecture itself is a highlight. The main structures retain the style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, holding significant historical and artistic value. The beams and brackets are meticulously structured, with intricate and exquisite designs, reflecting the superb architectural skills of ancient craftsmen. Scattered throughout the temple are steles and sutra pillars, silent witnesses to its history, recording its past glory. Princess Temple is not just a place of worship but a cultural treasure trove, waiting to be discovered and appreciated by more. 🎈Address: Princess Village, Xingyuan Township, Fanshi County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province ⌚Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 🚞Transportation: Self-driving is recommended.