Changchun's largest Buddhist temple—Huguo Banruo Temple

Huguo Banruo Temple in Changchun, often called Banruo Temple or "The Grand Temple," is located at 377 Changchun Street, Changchun City, Jilin Province. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Changchun. In 1923, the eminent Buddhist monk Master Tanxu (Master Zhanshan) of the Tiantai School came to Changchun to lecture on the "Heart Sutra," and subsequently founded the temple, naming it Banruo Temple. In 1934, it was renamed "Huguo Banruo Temple." Banruo Temple boasts a unique architectural style. Its main gate consists of three archways, with the six large characters "Namo Amitabha Buddha" inscribed on the red walls flanking the gate. Inside the gate, the Drum Tower and Bell Tower stand on either side, while directly ahead is the Hall of the Heavenly Kings. A statue of Maitreya Buddha is enshrined in the center of the hall, flanked by statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, each with their feet planted on eight grotesque figures. A standing statue of Skanda, the Dharma protector, is located at the back of the hall. The Mahavira Hall, the heart of the temple complex, presents a majestic and imposing appearance, with intricate brackets, painted beams and carved rafters, all resplendent in gold and vibrant colors. Changchun's Banruo Temple has consistently served as the center of Buddhist activities in Jilin Province. In 1983, it was designated as a key national Buddhist temple in Han Chinese areas. Whether in terms of architectural scale or cultural heritage, Banruo Temple stands as a significant symbol of Buddhist culture in Changchun. Huguo Banruo Temple