Nestled at the foot of Mount Emei (峨眉山) in Sichuan, Baoguo Temple (报国寺) is the first major temple visitors encounter on their journey to one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty (万历年间) and initially housing Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian deities, the temple was later renamed Baoguo Temple by Emperor Kangxi in the Qing Dynasty.
The majestic entrance, seen in this image, welcomes visitors with traditional Chinese temple architecture, including sweeping eaves, detailed carvings, and bold calligraphy. The plaque above the entrance, inscribed with “报国寺,” is an imperial inscription from the 42nd year of Kangxi’s reign (1703). The temple serves as a gateway to spiritual enlightenment and a profound cultural landmark, blending history, religion, and scenic beauty.
Surrounded by lush green forests, the temple is an excellent starting point for an exploration of Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes, Buddhist heritage, and serene ambiance. Visitors often come to Baoguo Temple to offer incense, admire the historic architecture, and begin their pilgrimage up the sacred mountain.