China Travel

Wannian Temple (Wannian Si), also often referred to by its name in translation, Long Life Temple, greets visitors who ascend the northern cable car from the road near the village of Jingshui. If you're hiking, you'll approach it from the direction of either Baiolongdong to the east or Chu Temple to the southwest; Wannian sits at the northern tip of the curcuit trail linking seven temples, monasteries, pavilions and Jiulao Cave.

Built in the fourth century AD, the temple complex originally boasted seven halls. Today, only one remains, but the square structure and domed roof, siginfying earth and heaven respectively, remain impressive examples of Ming Dynasty architecture. Like many of Emei Shan's temples, Wannian Si contains a statue of the Bodhissattva Puxian (also known as Samantabhadra). At 8.5 meters, this copper and bronze statue, dating back to 980 AD, is a sight to behold. Give Puxian's pachyderm back leg a rub for good luck.

Accommodation here, while basic, is friendly and the food has a strong reputation.