About White Horse Temple
White Horse Temple is China's first Buddhist temple, founded in 68 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty. According to tradition, Emperor Ming of Han dreamed of a golden Buddha and sent envoys to India. They returned with two monks and Buddhist scriptures carried by a white horse. To honor the horse and the new religion, the emperor built this temple — the "cradle of Chinese Buddhism."
The temple complex includes traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture — halls, pagodas, and courtyards — as well as a unique Thai-style temple built in 2010 as a gift from Thailand. The temple has been rebuilt and expanded over the centuries, but maintains its spiritual significance as the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism. Visitors can see monks practicing, burn incense, and explore the peaceful courtyards and gardens.
What Not to Miss
The main hall — housing statues of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.
The Qi Yun Pagoda — a 13-story pagoda from the Yuan Dynasty.
The Thai-style temple — a unique addition built in 2010.
