Impression on Wutaishan Mountain

Located in Shanxi province, standing tall at 3,058 meters above sea level, Mount Wutashan towers over the surrounding lands and impresses visitors from all over the world with her beauty. Wutaishan literally means “Five Peak Mountain,” and is one of the four sacred Buddhist Mountains in China. Originally a Taoist mountain, Mount Wutaishan has captivated the attention of mystics, scholars, and ordinary travelers for centuries, and is often referred to as one of the greatest mountains of China.

The Buddhist Mountains of China are said to be places where heaven and earth touch. The mountains support and hold up the sky, while residing over the earth. Wutaishan is believed to be the dwelling place of Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom. The enlightened being is believed to inhabit the five sacred peaks of the mountain, and manifests its being through the monks, pilgrims, or one of the often mysteriously colored clouds that float aimlessly above the mountain tops.

Apart from the natural scenery and excellent hiking trails throughout the mountain, Wutaishan is also home to some of the oldest existing wooding buildings in China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Architecture is another prominent feature of the various temples and prayer halls scattered throughout the five peaks of the mountain. The design and structure of the buildings have been studied by experts in traditional Chinese architecture. One can specify the time of construction by studying the design and type of woodwork used. Different genres of Chinese architecture each have their distinct characteristics, and one can easily spend a few days comparing and contrasting the unique style of the various temples.

For those of you unfamiliar with Buddhism in China or ancient Chinese architecture, you might not appreciate the cultural and historical significance of this mountain, but you will be captivated by her beauty, and the preserved natural habitat that blankets the five peaks. For others, who make pilgrimage to this enigmatic destination, you will be impacted by the way the natural beauty seems to be elevated by the mystic energy that encompasses the mountain. Coming from near or afar, for whatever reason, Wutaishan will be sure to be forever imprinted upon your heart as one of the truly magnificent places of natural beauty and wonder in China.