Amid vast, golden wheat fields, 26 kilometers outside of Xining, sits one of the most important monasteries of the Gelupga (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Built in 1577, the Kumbum Monastery is famed as the birthplace of Tsongkhapa—founder of the Gelupga denomination.

While the monastery's natural setting and spiritual vibrancy may not be as riveting as other major Buddhist sites in China such as Datong's Hanging Temple or Hangzhou's Lingyin Temple, Kumbum is nonetheless a site of enormous historical significance. The artwork, still vivid after all these centuries, is worth a close look, as is the ornate architecture.

Located to the right of the entry gate are eight "stupas," detailing the life and exploits of Sakyamuni. Further inside the gates is the  Grand Hall of Golden Tiles, which houses an 11-meter chorten marking the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, as well as various yak butter sculptures.