Photo Gallery
Yongyou Temple (Temple of Eternal Blessing) (built 1751)
Most of the temples of Chengde are modeled after temples found elsewhere throughout China. Yongyou Temple is no exception. Constructed in 1751 by Emperor Qianlong, it is modeled after the Bao'en temple in Nanjing and the Liuhe pagoda in Hangzhou. Although it is a Buddhist site, it was used by the Emperor to worship not just Buddhist deities, but also the spirits of his own ancestors.
According to GPS readings taken on site, the temple pagoda is located at 40 59.83255' N, 117 56.40508' E (WGS84 map datum).
Bibliography:
All images copyright 2008 Timothy M. Ciccone. Photographed early May, 2008.
Berger, Patricia Ann. Empire of Emptiness: Buddhist Art and Political Authority in Qing China
University of Hawaii Press, 2003. United Kingdom
Foret, Philippe. Mapping Chengde: The Qing Landscape Enterprise
University of Hawaii Press, 2000. Honolulu
Tadgell, Christopher. China: A Conservative Tradition
Ellipsis London Limited, 1998. Hong Kong
Tianjin University. Ancient Architecture of Chengde
China Building Industry Press, 1982. Hong Kong
Signposts located on site

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