Yongtaisi Temple
Yongtaisi temple is the first temple built after the introduction of Buddhism into China. It is also China’s oldest existing royal temple. Hence, it is well known as forefather of Zen Buddhism temples and called as sister temple of Shaolin temple.
Yongtaisi temple is located at western part of Taishishan Mt. at Northwest of Dengfeng city of Henan province. It was built in agreement with topographical features, facing the West, directly opposite to Shaolin temple, facing Shaoshi Mt. in the South, lying beside Zijinfeng Peak and Shaolin Lake in the North. The entire Yongtaisi temple is tranquil and beautiful.
In Chinese history, three princesses had practised Buddhism in Yongtaisi temple, namely, Princess Wencheng-daughther of King Wencheng of Northern Wei Dynasty, Princess Yongtai-daughther of King Xiaoming of Northern Wei Dynasty, and Princess Minglian-daughther of King Liangwu of Nan Dynasty. In this way, Yongtaisi temple has surmount place in Buddhism.
According to stone inscriptions of Ming Dynasty, three feats had been achieved after introduction of Zen Buddhism into China. The first was Bodhidharma facing wall, the second Shenguang cutting arm and the third Princess Yongtai practising Buddhism. After practising Buddhism, Princess Yongtai had often helped common people in surrounding areas with food and money, which had won her high reputation and great admiration among the public. In this way, Yongtaisi temple had become well known owing to feats of Princess Yongtai. The temple was named after the princess’ name. The great influence and important status has added mystery and dignity to Yongtaisi temple despite of its common appearance.
At sunset, at the sight of Yongtaisi temple bathing in golden sunshine and backs of nuns practising Buddhism, a feeling of tranquility and peace will arise in your heart. The detachment and elegance of nuns could always inspire people just like the wisdom and belief of Princess Yongtai.