The Agate Temple, named for its location on a hill with a texture resembling agate, originally a monastery built by the King of Wuyue during the Five Dynasties period, no longer exists. The existing ancient architecture is a legacy from the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, with the mountain gate, gardens, and side rooms all preserved to this day. New pavilions and towers have been added around, embellished with lotus ponds and paved with blue bricks, exuding a unique charm. It is said that during the recent restoration, many scholars discovered that the steps date back to the Ming Dynasty and the pillars to the Song Dynasty, which led to great emotion and recognition of the Agate Temple as an important relic witnessing a thousand years of history. Within the temple compound stands a thousand-year-old camphor tree, which has been standing for 1600 years, providing shade and a faint fragrance, making it a precious memento of the era. From a higher point in the courtyard, one can enjoy a partial view of the West Lake. The temple is open all year round from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Agate Temple Site – Southeast Gate
The Agate Temple, named for its location on a hill with a texture resembling agate, originally a mon[...]
