Founded in 957 AD during the Liao Dynasty Longquan Monastery stands before you. A haven of serenity nestled at the foot of Phoenix Mountain it’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. Longquan Monastery isn’t just old stones and prayer flags. It’s a vibrant community of hundreds of monks many holding advanced degrees from China’s top universities.
Imagine the story whispered through the centuries. This monastery rebuilt in the traditional Chinese style boasts three courtyards and several halls. The Golden Dragon Bridge a single-span arch bridge over 6.5 meters long welcomes visitors. It’s said the first abbot built this bridge over a thousand years ago. Two ancient calocedrus trees over 600 years old stand guard at the gate. Two ginkgo trees and two cypresses all over a thousand years old provide shade and quiet contemplation.
But Longquan Monastery isn’t stuck in the past. It’s a temple of technological marvels. Monks here use iPads and webcams for studying sutras. The monastery boasts a cutting-edge IT department. They designed a check-in-out system for the 700 guest rooms. They created a digital library system. Each monk even has an electronic lending card.
And that’s not all. A cartoon group creates charming animations to spread Buddhist teachings. They even developed Robot Monk Xian’er a 60-centimeter-tall robot that answers simple questions. This little robot is a local superstar. You can see him along with other cartoon figures in the exhibition hall.
Longquan Monastery is a testament to the enduring power of faith. It’s a place where the ancient wisdom of Buddhism blends seamlessly with the cutting edge of technology. A place where monks use modern tools to spread their message. A place of peace. A place of learning. A place of innovation. A place of quiet contemplation. A place well worth exploring. Enjoy your visit to Longquan Monastery.