Jinghan Jade Rabbit Stupa

Construction of the Jinghan Jade Rabbit Stupa began in the 38th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1610). It stands on a small hill one kilometre from the government of Jinghan Town, Longchuan County, on the eastern side of the Zhefang-Longchuan Highway. The stupa enjoys great renown across Southeast Asian countries including India, Myanmar and Thailand.

According to local legend, Sakyamuni Buddha once reincarnated as a jade rabbit and appeared at this site, performing a meritorious deed of rescuing people from a sea of fire. Hence the monument bears the name Jade Rabbit Stupa. Destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, it was reconstructed in 1980. The complex consists of nine gilded bamboo-shape stupas: one large central stupa surrounded by eight smaller ones. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for Theravada Buddhism.

Every year, grand gatherings kick off on the 15th day of the 4th Dai lunar month (coinciding with the 15th day of the 1st Chinese lunar month) and last for three days. Locally known as Guangmu Fair (Stupa Fair), the event draws tens of thousands of domestic and overseas visitors. On the 23rd day of the 11th Dai lunar month, a Buddha-offering festival coincides with the Opening of the Rain Retreat, a major Buddhist observance. Young men and women of all ethnic groups gather for celebrations, popularly called Bai Shaosan or Bai Mao Bai Shao, meaning Youth Festival, filled with lively revelry.

The stupa sits on a solitary hill rising abruptly from the edge of the basin, commanding a magnificent terrain. More than 220 stone steps lead straight up to the stupa courtyard. Ancient towering trees surround the compound, forming a thick canopy that blocks out much sunlight. Climb up to the stupa terrace, and you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire Longchuan Basin. Behind the hill lies a mirror-like reservoir embedded amid the landscape, filled with birdsong and fragrant blossoms. Its tranquil setting makes it an ideal destination for sightseeing, meditation and spiritual refreshment.