Is it possible for a temple to embrace both ancient traditions and modern technology? Here at Longquan Monastery, you’ll discover it’s not just possible but thriving. Longquan Monastery is a Buddhist temple with a history stretching back over 1,000 years. It was originally built during the Liao Dynasty, between 907 and 1125 AD.
Longquan Monastery sits at the foot of Phoenix Mountain, in Beijing’s Haidian District. The name Longquan, meaning Dragon Spring, comes from its location near Jiulong Mountain and the Yongding River.
Step through the gates of Longquan Monastery. Notice the traditional Chinese architecture. The temple has three courtyards and several halls. Key structures include Sanhui Hall, Tiangwang Hall, Hengha Hall, and Weilaoye Hall. Longwang Hall dates back to the Qin Dynasty.
As you explore, observe the ancient Golden Dragon Bridge in the mid courtyard. It stretches 6.5 meters long and 4 meters wide. Legend says the first abbot built it over 1,000 years ago.
Don’t miss the ancient plants. Two calocedrus trees near the gate are over 600 years old. Further inside, two tall ginkgo trees and two cypresses stand tall. They are over a thousand years old.
What makes Longquan Monastery unique? It’s the blend of ancient Buddhism with modern technology. Many monks here are graduates from top universities. Some even hold Ph.Ds in science. They combine their expertise with their faith.
Some monks form an IT group. They write code to manage daily life. They’ve created a check-in system for the 700 guest rooms. They also built a book registration system for the library. Each monk has an electronic lending card.
Other monks create cartoons. These simple images spread religious teachings. The monastery even developed a robot monk named Xian’er. This 60 cm robot can understand simple instructions and answer questions. Xian’er has become a star.
Longquan Monastery offers free lunch every day at 11 a.m. Ladies dine on the first floor of the cafeteria. Men go to the second floor. The vegetarian meal is simple and delicious. Monks grow most of the vegetables themselves. Silence is observed during the meal. After eating, everyone washes their own bowls.
You can even stay overnight. Apply for a room at the Guest Room. Longquan Monastery combines history, spirituality, and innovation. It is a haven for those seeking meaning in a modern world. As you leave, consider how tradition and technology can coexist and enrich each other.