Zhongwei Gao Temple: A Unique Buddhist and Taoist Site on the Frontier
On the edge of the Loess Plateau north of Zhongwei County in Ningxia, Zhongwei Gao Temple stands silently like an old sage, having stood there for hundreds of years. This ancient architectural complex, which combines Buddhist and Taoist cultures, has become a rare cultural sight on the frontier with its unique layout and profound historical heritage.
The history of Gao Miao Temple dates back to the Ming Dynasty. After enduring the test of time, it was expanded and renovated during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty to reach its current scale. It is not a single religious structure but consists of the front section, Bao’an Temple, and the rear section, Gao Miao Temple, forming the unique layout of “Buddhism in front, Taoism in back.” This rare layout reflects the trend of the convergence of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism in traditional Chinese culture, as well as the regional characteristics of cultural integration in Ningxia.
As you ascend the steps, the first sight to greet you is the mountain gate of Bao’an Temple. The south-facing gate exudes solemnity and dignity, with symmetrically arranged side halls on either side, as if welcoming pilgrims from all directions. Beyond the gate, the single-eave gabled roof of the Great Hall of the Buddha suddenly comes into view, with its upturned eaves and corners exuding the solemnity and sacredness of Buddhist architecture. The carvings on the beams and columns inside the hall are delicate and exquisite, and despite the erosion of wind and rain over the years, one can still imagine the splendor of its heyday. As the main venue for Buddhist activities, Bao’an Temple’s layout follows the traditional temple regulations, with every detail reflecting the pure and ethereal atmosphere of Buddhism.
Climbing the 24 brick steps behind the Great Hall of the Buddha leads into the realm of Daoist temples. These steps are not only a spatial transition but also an invisible boundary, skillfully separating yet closely connecting the two worlds of Buddhism and Daoism. At the end of the steps, the archway and the South Heavenly Gate are arranged in sequence, followed by the Central Hall, the Five Peaks Hall, the Jade Emperor Hall, and the Holy Mother Hall, each building progressively more grand in scale. The bell tower, drum tower, literary tower, and martial tower on either side are symmetrically distributed and connected to the main buildings via flying bridges, forming a compact and orderly whole.
This design of connecting buildings via flying bridges is truly ingenious. When viewed from above, each building stands independently yet harmoniously complements the others, with the flying bridges serving as a seamless thread that binds them together. This design not only saves space but also enhances the architectural layers and dynamism. Strolling through the complex, one occasionally crosses the flying bridges to overlook the tiered roofs below, or pauses within the halls to gaze up at the exquisite ceiling decorations, experiencing the endless charm of architectural art as the scenery changes with each step.
What is most remarkable about the Zhongwei High Temple is the harmonious coexistence of Buddhist and Taoist elements. The Buddhist Great Hall of the Buddha and the Taoist Hall of the Jade Emperor face each other, with the sounds of morning bells and evening drums intertwining with Taoist music and scriptural recitations. This unique religious landscape is rare even on a national scale. It is not only a treasure of architectural art but also a vivid reflection of the local people’s religious beliefs, showcasing their包容 and acceptance of diverse cultures.
Today, Zhongwei Gao Temple has become an important cultural heritage site in Ningxia. It serves as a three-dimensional historical record, documenting the historical changes and cultural integration of the region. As the afterglow of the setting sun bathes the tiered eaves in warm golden hues, the entire temple seems to narrate tales of faith and time, drawing visitors to uncover its mysteries.
