Xiangji Temple, Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Xiangji Temple in Hangzhou is a Buddhist temple with a rich history. It was first built in the 3rd year of the Taiping Xingguo period of the Northern Song dynasty (978 AD) and was originally called Xingfu Temple. It was later renamed Xiangji Temple by Emperor Zhenzong of Song. Xiangji Temple covers an area of 16,855 square meters, with a total floor area of 13,150 square meters. It is the only temple in China dedicated to the Guardian of the Buddhist Meal (Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva). The temple's architectural style combines elements of traditional Hangzhou temples with innovative features, making it unique. From the archway, the central axis of the temple is lined with the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva, the Mahavira Hall, and the Sutra Library. On both sides of the temple, there are also the Guanyin Hall, the Manjusri Hall, the Samantabhadra Hall, the Bell and Drum Towers, and other buildings, with a total of 34 statues. Among them, the Hall of Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva and the Bell and Drum Towers are made of copper, making them resplendent and unique. As a thousand-year-old temple on the Grand Canal, Xiangji Temple has always been an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Every spring and autumn, devout Buddhists from Hangzhou, Jiaxing, and Huzhou would travel in groups by boat along the canal to burn incense and worship Buddha here. Xiangji Temple is therefore known as the "First Incense of the Canal." In addition, Xiangji Temple regularly holds various Buddhist cultural activities and ceremonies, attracting many believers and tourists to participate.