Jietai Temple is located 35km (22 miles) west of Beijing and only 8km (5 miles) from Tanzhe Temple. Jietaisi, or temple of the ordination altar, takes its name from its famous Ming marble ordination altar. Built some 1,300 years ago, this altar is nearly 5 meters (16ft) high and is decorated with delicate and exquisite carvings.
The temple was first built in 622AD during the Tang dynasty but most of the buildings in this temple date from the Qing dynasty (1644-1911AD).
Surrounding the main hall are a number of courtyards containing rock formations and old pine and cypress trees. The temple is renown for its ancient trees that are the subject of many songs. It is said that the Chinese scholar tree known as the protector of Buddhism found on the grounds, is more than 1,000 years old. Other famous trees include "nine dragon tree" which has 9 branches that reach up to the sky like 9 flying dragons and the "mobile tree" which trembles even when only one branch is slightly touched.
Ticket: 20 yuan (US$2.4); 30 yuan during April 20 to June 21.
Transportation: Take bus 931 at Pingguoyuan subway station, or tour bus 7 at Fuchengmen.
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