Dabei Temple of Badachu Park in Beijing

Overview

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) is one of the eight great temples located on the lower slopes of the Yanshan Mountains (燕山) in Beijing (北京市). Nestled in a dense forest about one li (里) northwest of Sanshan An (三山庵), the temple is accessible via a mountain path lined with uniquely shaped stones. Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) faces south, with an entrance known as Cuizhu Courtyard (翠竹院), featuring rare bamboo varieties. Upon entering, visitors ascend a series of steps surrounded by aromatic herbs and bonsai rock gardens, with the main hall displaying the plaque “Beiyuanhai” (悲源海).

Temple Introduction

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) is characterized by clusters of lush bamboo in the front courtyard, which remains vibrant even in late autumn. Unlike other bamboo groves that wither, the bamboo here retains its lush green color, creating a unique scenic spot among the eight great temples. The temple is situated halfway up Pingpo Mountain (平坡山).

Originally named Yinjisi (隐寂寺), Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) was founded during the Liao (辽) and Jin (金) dynasties in 1033. In the 29th year of the Jiajing reign (嘉靖) (1550), a new pavilion named Dabeige (大悲阁) was added to honor Guanyin (观音). A stone tablet inscribed during the 29th year of the Jiajing reign details the temple’s establishment, noting its picturesque location, abundant resources, and the presence of numerous clouds and rivers around it. The temple was rebuilt in the 51st year of the Kangxi reign (康熙) (1712) and was renamed Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺).

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) underwent further renovations in the 60th year of the Qianlong reign (乾隆) (1795).

Historical Origins

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) was a renowned temple during the Yuan (元) and Ming (明) dynasties, experiencing particularly vibrant activity during the Kangxi and Qianlong periods of the Qing (清) dynasty. Emperor Kangxi visited the temple multiple times, meeting with Master Huideng (慧灯) and even composing poetry in its honor, bestowing a plaque inscribed with “Imperially Built Dabeisi Temple” (敕建大悲寺). Emperor Qianlong also praised the temple, presenting poetry to its abbot, Master Gumei (古梅).

Architectural Layout

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) features three courtyards, with a mountain gate inscribed with the plaque “Imperially Built Dabeisi Temple” (敕建大悲寺) bearing the seal of Emperor Kangxi. The first hall is the Mahaviro (大雄宝殿), which houses statues of the Three Buddhas, with eighteen Arhat statues flanking either side. These Arhat sculptures, crafted in the second year of the Dade era (大德) (1298), are vividly portrayed in various poses—standing, sitting, smiling, and in contemplation—showcasing the artistry of the Yuan sculptor Liu Yuan (刘元). The sculptures are made from sandalwood powder and fine sand, exuding a pleasant aroma even after seven hundred years.

Liu Yuan, originally from Baodi (宝坻) during the Yuan dynasty, was renowned for creating clay or bronze statues in major temples throughout the region. His works were highly praised by the Yuan emperors, who rewarded him with palace maids and promoted him to high office, underscoring his prestigious status among Yuan sculptors.

Despite the passage of time, the sandalwood aroma remains enchanting as visitors enter the hall. Many Buddhist statues in the eight great temples suffered severe damage during the Cultural Revolution (十年动乱), yet the eighteen Arhat sculptures survived as treasured artworks.

Ancient Trees

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) is flanked by two rows of green bamboo on either side of its steps, while two ancient ginkgo trees stand majestically behind the main hall. These trees, with trunks that require several people to embrace, are over 800 years old and thrive abundantly.

Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺), originally named Yinjisi (隐寂寺), was founded over 900 years ago during the Song (宋) and Liao (辽) dynasties. Tucked away in a dense forest, the temple’s buildings ascend along the mountainside in a harmonious arrangement, with the mountain gate facing south.

The first structure of the temple is the mountain gate hall, topped with grey cylindrical tiles. The eaves are adorned with colorful paintings, and a “Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix” (百鸟朝凤) brick carving decorates the center of the roof ridge. Above the entrance is a white marble plaque inscribed with “Imperially Built Dabeisi Temple” (敕建大悲寺) in a vigorous script, the work of Emperor Kangxi. The entrance is flanked by carved motifs of white elephants, fierce lions, and soaring dragons, while the center features a human-headed bird resembling the Dapeng (大鹏) from Buddhist scriptures. Flanking the entrance are stone-carved flower windows adorned with patterns of dragon and honeysuckle, adding beauty and solemnity to the temple.

Mahaviro Hall

Inside the mountain gate hall, the central figure is the “Laughing Buddha” (大肚弥勒佛), characterized by a joyful expression. The Four Heavenly Kings stand guard on either side, clad in armor and brandishing weapons, exuding an air of authority. These five statues are newly crafted. Ascending past the mountain gate, two pools of emerald bamboo can be seen, swaying gracefully in the breeze—believed to have been planted during the Ming dynasty and originally from Jiangnan (江南).

The second hall is the Mahaviro Hall (大雄宝殿), adorned with a “Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl” (二龙戏珠) brick carving at the center of the roof ridge. The dragons, with clearly defined scales and claws, appear ready to take flight, representing a masterful creation. The roof’s end features a decorative Chiwen and a ridge beast, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. At the center of the hall is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, flanked by his two primary disciples, Ananda (阿难) and Kashyapa (迦叶). The eighteen Arhats are positioned on either side.

The eighteen Arhats in the Mahaviro Hall sit atop cloud-like stones, attentively listening to Shakyamuni’s teachings, each expressing unique emotions, making them a remarkable artistic achievement. These statues are particularly noteworthy as they were crafted by the famed Yuan sculptor Liu Yuan, whose works were renowned for their lifelike quality.

The Mahaviro Hall leads to the Dabeih Hall (大悲殿), built in the 29th year of the Jiajing reign (嘉靖) (1550), featuring five bays and a plaque hanging beneath the eaves reading “Beiyuanhai” (悲源海). The couplet on the supporting pillars reads: “The unmovable Dharma realm forms a hill on the eastern side; the world of glazed treasures reveals Amitabha to the west.” The couplets are the works of contemporary calligraphers.

Colorful Sculptures

Inside the hall, there is a colorful seated statue of Guanyin (观音大士), embodying compassion and maternal kindness. The final hall is the Medicine Buddha Hall (药师佛殿), recently restored, with its layout and colorful decorations adhering to the official style of the Qing dynasty. The hall is opulent and solemn, housing statues of the Medicine Buddha, the Sunlight Bodhisattva, and the Moonlight Bodhisattva, with twelve Medicine Deities flanking either side. These fifteen statues are crafted from camphor wood, gilded with gold, imparting a sense of dignity and grandeur.

In front of the Dabeih Hall (大悲殿) stand two ancient ginkgo trees. During summer, their foliage provides ample shade, while in late autumn, golden leaves blanket the ground. These two male ginkgo trees are over 700 years old.

Behind Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺) lies a shallow gully filled with wild flowering crabapple trees (海棠), which bloom vividly in the summer, creating a delightful sight. A thought-provoking story is associated with this location: during the Kangxi period, a mountain spring flowed incessantly through the valley, attracting two golden mule foals to drink nightly.

A greedy individual, learning of this, attempted to capture one of the foals. One night, as the foals returned, the greedy man threw a rope to ensnare one, but the foal, immensely powerful, dragged the thief off the cliff, leading to his demise. Today, two stones resembling golden mules lie quietly in the valley, believed to be remnants of the high monk’s spell cast at Dabeisi Temple (大悲寺).

How to Get There

To reach Dabeisi (大悲寺), located in the western suburbs of Beijing, you can take public transport or drive. If using public transport, take the subway to the nearest station and then transfer to a local bus that goes to the temple. For driving, navigate to Pingpo Mountain and follow signs to the temple.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Consider going in the spring or autumn for pleasant weather.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy shoes, as there are many steps and uneven paths.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting the temple, be mindful of local traditions and maintain a quiet demeanor.
• Bring Water and Snacks: Facilities may be limited, so it’s wise to carry some refreshments.
• Plan for Crowds: Weekends and holidays can be busy; visiting on a weekday might provide a more serene experience.