Like a miracle, 3 old, large pagodas from the 9th century of the Tang Dynasty have survived. The tallest is nearly 70 m (230 ft) high. They survived 30 earthquakes, including the devastating one in 1925, which almost completely destroyed the surrounding city. However, all other surrounding buildings of the Chongsheng Temple were destroyed by fire and wars.
All done new
The temple grounds are huge and it was/is the first Han Buddhist temple complex in China. It is all the more wonderful that China decided in 2005 to elaborately rebuild everything in the old style, with lots of (leaf) gold.
Even more wonders
And as if the survival of the pagodas wasn’t “miraculous” enough, during renovation work in 1978, a secret chamber was found in the spire of the main pagoda, containing over 1,000-year-old treasures, gold, silver, and historical scriptures of inestimable value.
DURIAN – The Stinky Fruit
Well, many call these “dinosaur eggs” the “Queen of Fruits.” But over 200 volatile sulfur compounds lead to an intense, pungent, almost penetrating odor. That’s why this fruit is banned in many hotels and public transportation across Southeast Asia.
The yellowish pulp is creamy, almost pudding-like. But the taste is brilliant, complex, and multilayered. A bit like almond, cheese, vanilla, and caramel all at the same time.
And here the mobile antenas grow in the trees 😉
I love your description of the complex flavour of durian, the smell is so foul that I couldn’t stomach to taste it. Bravo for being brave👏
The temples are interesting and at least one Buddha looks tge same in all Buddhist countries, my fav laughing Buddha or as you say satisfied Buddha.
Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Thanks for sharing. Amazing pictures of Dali and the thousand year old temple. I love Durian. It is a most unique fruit in terms of flavour. I don’t even mind or think about the smell after tasting it.