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A structure at the Dai Temple. [Photo/Zhang Jie]
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According to historical records, the original temple was first built during the Qin Dynasty (211-206 BC). During the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), a replica was built. Several dynasties later, pavilions and other decorations were added, making the modern Dai Temple what it is today.
Most of the present attractions inside the temple are left over from the Han Dynasty. Seen from a distance, the temple appears grand and magnificent. Take a closer view, and you will feel astonished by its stateliness. It is a symbol of ancient Chinese power.
Standing at the entrance to the temple, you will see the Yaocan Pavilion and the archway of the Dai Temple first. Its grand framework and elaborate engravings are hugely impressive and entice tourists to visit the temple.
Entering it, there are many gateways and various structures, all colorful and brilliant in their own unique way. Among them, the most conspicuous is the Hall of Celestial Gifts (the Tiankuang Hall) built in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), and one of the three palace-style types of architecture that can be observed in China.
Inside the hall, there is a portrait of God, 4.4 meters high, set in the middle. Around the walls of the east, west and north, an enormous mural 3 meters high and 62 meters long named "the God of Mountain Tai on an inspection tour" depicts the wonderful and grand scene of the inspection tour itself.