Almost as if it is straight off a Chinese poem or story, the mighty Xixiang Chi looms amidst the most breathtaking backdrop. Situated in the heart of a dense forest with quaint mountains and water pools adorning the area’s surrounding, each feature of this location has a religious significance. After all, this masterpiece situated at 2,070 metres above sea level, feels as though it is situated in the heavens itself.
The Xixiang Chi and the Guro Dong are only one of the many amazing religious attractions located in Sichuan. For a wholesome tour of Sichuan, stay at the Anantara Emei Resort & Spa. This Sichuan hotel with all its unmatched facilities makes the perfect place to wind down in after an adventurous day discovering the city.
Xixiang and Guo Dong are symbols of the Chinese devotion to their deities. For visitors the temple affords not just religious significance but also a glimpse into the Chinese culture and typical age old Chinese architecture. There are interesting stories behind the different features of the temple; these stories are primarily about Buddhist beliefs and the legends that surround each one. In the past Xixiang Chi was called ‘the beginning of the Hi Pavilion’ but as decades passed by its name became what it is today. There are large exquisite rooms throughout the temple each for the purpose of a different religious ritual. If you visit the temple at the time of a Chinese festival, you would enjoy the experience only so much more. On your way to Xixiang Chi, however, watch out for monkeys!
In close vicinity to Xixiang one can find the Guro Dong. The Guro Dong is an enormous sacred cave that spans across 1,500 metres. There are 3 important parts of the cave. The first part is a large hall which has a significant height for visitors to walk upright. The second and third sections are shorter in height and go deeper into the mountains. Caution should be exercised as one goes deeper into the cave.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
