China Series #7: Lama Temple

For the final edition of the China Series, we're going to have the Yonghe Temple. It's also known as the "Lama Temple." It has that second name because it became a Lamasery, which is a monastery of Tibetan Buddhist monks. In the Temple, we saw a huge statue of the Buddha that was made from one tree. The statue filled the building all the way to the ceiling. I have no picture of it, since pictures of the statues of Buddha, were not allowed. You'll just have to take my word for it that it was very impressive. It was interesting to see that the Yonghe Temple was a center of administration for two different Lama leaders. One is the Dhalai Lama, who is in exile in India and is not allowed to return to the temple. The other is the Panchen Lama who is much younger and is allowed to visit the temple. I'd post more on the rich history of Tibetan Buddhism, but my knowledge is not very deep. Suffice it to say though that I will learn more though since my interest is piqued.