Zhongyue Maio Temple

Zhongyue Maio Temple lies 4km/2.5mi east of Dengfeng. It was built in the 3rd C BC and was the place of worship for the state religion. The present buildings date from 18th C; the main hall was completed in 1653. With its surface area of some 100,000sq.m/120,000sq.yd it is the most monumental Buddhist building in the province. The halls, partially covered with emperor-yellow tiles, are arranged symmetrically. The four larger-than-life cast iron guardian figures are especially noteworthy.