Hidden Gem of Sichuan: The Millennial Zen of Lingying Temple

Nestled in Dashiban Village by Qionghai Lake in Xichang, Lingying Temple boasts a history of over 500 years. Legends of divine eagles soaring through the skies and muddy ground transforming into solid earth add a mystical aura to this ancient temple, which uniquely integrates Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions. The temple is home to Ming Dynasty wooden sculptures that are considered national treasures—such as the Shakyamuni Buddha adorned with a Yi ethnic Cha'erwa cloak, a lotus pedestal engraved with symbols of the October solar calendar, and gilded and mineral-painted designs that shimmer under sunlight, making it one of a kind in the country. Strolling through the orange-yellow walls, visitors encounter lifelike depictions of the Ten Courts of Yama and the Twenty-Four Heavenly Deities. Coupled with couplets from the Jiaqing era and plaques from the Ming Dynasty, these elements narrate the passage of time. The temple's soaring eaves resemble the wings of a divine bird, while the intricate shallow relief carvings on the columns are awe-inspiring. As the morning bell resonates across Qionghai Lake and incense smoke curls upward, the unique gilded painting techniques pioneered by Yi craftsmen further highlight the temple's cultural significance. Lingying Temple is not only a treasure trove of architectural artistry but also a living fossil of cultural diversity. Before leaving, don't forget to pick up a bamboo leaf as a keepsake—it is said to carry the blessings of the divine eagle.