Xiangyun Temple

Xiangyun Temple sits on the hill behind Hexi Middle School in Menglian Village, Hexi Township, Lianghe County, Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It stands at an altitude of 1,198 metres and is 3.5 kilometres from the county seat. First built in the Qing Dynasty, it underwent protective renovation in 1981 with funds raised by local villagers.

Originally named Menglian Temple, it was first erected beside Menglian Village during the Zhengtong reign of the Ming Dynasty. Later it was moved to the present location and completed in the 23rd year of the Qianlong reign. It was then renamed Xiangyun Temple. The name derives from a poetic line: Incense spreads wide as the sea amid rolling clouds; the temple nestles deep amid mist and rosy glow.

As a representative Mahayana Buddhist temple in the Lianghe area, the existing buildings reflect superb construction techniques and exquisite craftsmanship. The architecture boasts both graceful shape and profound charm with delicate carvings throughout.

The main hall features a three-tiered double-eaved hip-and-gable roof decorated with elaborate brackets in three tiers of cantilevers, demonstrating remarkable building skills. The arched tie beams are finely carved with patterns of flowers, birds and beasts, and the spandrels are fully openwork with outstanding workmanship.

In addition, doors, windows and wall panels are engraved with various floral designs and Eight Treasures motifs. With upturned eaves and painted carved beams, the grand hall is antique in style and a typical example of Qing Dynasty architecture.