(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline)

A Brief Introduction to China

The People’s Republic of China has a long and varied history with its beginnings in an ancient civilisation dating back to 4,000 BCE, when large settlements could be found along the banks of the Yellow River.

The country is located on the western shore of the Pacific Ocean in eastern Asia, and has an area of 9.6 million square kilometres (3.7 million square miles). Its vast seas have more than 5,000 islands and the continental coastline extends for about 18,000 kilometres (11,180 miles). With over 220,000 kilometres (136,700 miles) of rivers, China’s incredible landscape includes the world renowned and awe-inspiring Yangtze River (Changjiang) and the indomitable Yellow River (Huanghe).

The majority of scholars agree that the recorded histories of China began during the Xia Dynasty from roughly 2100 BCE, and continued throughout various dynasties until 1911. Following many years of turmoil and political upheaval, the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949 and has seen rapid growth in the last 30 years.

China is filled with beautiful mountains, highlands, ranges, hills, plains and basins. The highlands and hill regions occupy 65% of China’s total land mass with its most famous peak, Mount Everest (Qomolangma), rising 8,848 metres (5.5 miles) above sea level, making it the tallest mountain in the world. China’s lowest point is the Turpan Basin, which is 154 metres below sea level. The country also has more than 2,000 lakes.

China is a beautiful and historic land that encompasses ancient history, urban wonders, spectacular vistas and rich cultural experiences which makes it a popular destination for world travellers. Of the many attractions, the four sacred Buddhist mountains are a must-visit, and the one that stands out the most is the sacred Mount Wutai.

The Capital

Beijing is the capital of China and serves as the country’s political, cultural, scientific, educational and key transportation hub. It has been the capital of China for more than 800 years and houses many historical sites including:

• The Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved ancient architectural complex;
• The Temple of Heaven, where the Ming and Qing emperors performed solemn rituals for bountiful harvests;
• The Emperor’s Summer Palace, where a magnificent garden retreat is located;
• The Ming Tombs, the majestic mausoleums of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors;
• The Great Wall of China, including the world-renowned Badaling section which is the most visited by tourists.

Since 1949, large scale construction has led to great change in Beijing. Today, the city still retains the characteristics of an ancient capital but is now dotted with towering skyscrapers and equipped with a complete range of municipal facilities that transforms it into a modern metropolis that, fortunately, still evokes Chinese history.

Overview of Wu Tai Shan

Situated in the north-eastern Chinese province of Shanxi, Mount Wutai or ‘Wu Tai Shan’ literally translates to “The Five Peaked Mountain” and is the highest mountain in Northern China. It is surrounded by a cluster of five flat-topped peaks — in the north, south, east, west and central regions. There is also a sacred Buddhist site situated at the headwaters of the River Qingshui. The highest among the five peaks is the north peak, called Beitai Ding or Yedou Feng, which is 3,061 metres (1.9 miles) tall. It is also the highest point in northern China.

Mount Wutai is home to 53 monasteries including Fuguang Temple’s East Main Hall, which is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty timber work and houses many life-sized clay sculptures; and Shuxiang Temple, which is a huge complex of over 500 suspended statues.

The monasteries of Mount Wutai were built between the 1^st Century to the early 20^th Century, making it a great place to study the development of Buddhist architecture and its influence on buildings in China.

Since ancient times, Mount Wutai has developed a reputation as a sacred and mystical site inhabited by divine beings, and this notion is accompanied by stories of miraculous events even up to the present day. During the 5^th Century, many pilgrims and hermits reported having repeated visions and encounters with Manjushri and other Bodhisattvas at Mount Wutai. Manjushri is said to have appeared in various forms, but primarily as a youthful prince astride a lion on a five-coloured cloud with a glowing ball of light, and also as a monk or a mendicant.

The visions that people have had at the mountain are supported by Buddhist scriptures that describe and refer to Mount Wutai as the abode of Manjushri. As such, it has become a pilgrimage site for those who propitiate this Bodhisattva. Over the millennia, nine of China’s emperors have collectively made 18 pilgrimages to Mount Wutai, and paid homage to Manjushri. This tradition of pilgrimage continues to the present day, and still attracts pilgrims from all around the world.

A Brief History of Wu Tai Shan

According to the Ming Dynasty Buddhist master Zhencheng, the first temple built on Mount Wutai was commissioned by the Han Emperor in 68 CE, during a time when Indian Buddhist masters were travelling to China to spread Buddhism. Mount Wutai was chosen as the site of the first temple because its topography resembled that of Vulture’s Peak in India, where Buddha Shakyamuni gave a discourse on the Lotus Sutra (Avatamsaka Sutra).

The flourishing of Mount Wutai is greatly attributed to various emperors of China, including the benevolent Emperor Kangxi, for their patronage and support in building and repairing the temples and monasteries on the mountain. In addition, these emperors also started a tradition of pilgrimage to and circumambulation around the mountain which was later adopted by Manchu, Tibetan, and Mongolian rulers.

The link between Mount Wutai and Manjushri was established in the 5^th Century based on the Avatamsaka Sutra (Lotus Sutra), which dates back to around 420 CE. According to a passage in this Sutra that describes the abodes of the Bodhisattvas, it is said that Manjushri resides on Qingliang Shan (“Clear Cold Mountain”) in the northeast which is often interpreted as being Mount Wutai.

The popularity of the mountain reached its peak during the Sui (581-618 CE) and Tang (618-907 CE) Dynasties when 360 temples and monasteries were built. The mountain attracted many monks from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Burma, Vietnam, Korea and Japan, who then spread the teachings of Manjushri all across Asia. The number of temples and monasteries declined to 70 during the Song (960-1279 CE) and Yuan (1271–1368 CE) Dynasties, while new halls were also built. It was during that time that Tibetan Buddhism spread across China, and coexisted harmoniously with Chinese Buddhism.

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), the mountain flourished once again. Many temples and monasteries, such as the Great White Pagoda and the public Sukhavati Monastery were rebuilt during this period and the number of temples and monasteries increased from 70 to 104. During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 CE), the emperors often embarked on pilgrimages to the mountain in order to pray for peace and show a good example to their people and the neighbouring countries. By that time, there were some 25 Tibetan monasteries and 97 Chinese Buddhist communities working side by side to spread the teachings of Manjushri.

Towards the late Qing Dynasty and the early years of the People’s Republic of China, Mount Wutai faced another period of decline due to social instability. Starting from 1949, efforts were made to revive the monasteries and temples. Currently, there are 68 temples on Mount Wutai — 47 inside the circle of the five peaks and 21 on the outside. Among them are seven Tibetan monasteries, 40 Chinese Buddhist monasteries, five nunneries and one public monastery.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Mount Wutai is a perfect fusion of Buddhist culture, Chinese philosophy, natural landscape, and the harmony between man and nature. Its influence is far-reaching, with similar mountains being named after it in Korea and Japan, as well as in other parts of China such as in the Shanxi, Gansu, Hebei, and Guangdong provinces.

The effect of 1,000 years of imperial patronage can clearly be seen in the breathtaking landscape dotted with monastic buildings. A testament of Chinese culture, the mountain is beautifully adorned with religious buildings, paintings, statues and steles which celebrate its sanctity for Buddhist pilgrims from across the globe.

Mount Wutai’s evolution into a sacred Buddhist site along with its awe-inspiring architecture, statues and pagodas reflects a profound interchange of ideas from Nepal and Mongolia, which eventually influenced Buddhist monasteries and temples across China. Due to all these attributes, the mountain was selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.

The Must-see Five Peaks (五峰)

The five main peaks, located in the four cardinal directions and at the central point of the mountain represent the five wisdoms of Manjushri. They are the primary attraction for visitors, and it is highly recommended to visit each one to discover their immense beauty.

Wanghai Feng (望海峰, Sea View Peak) – East Terrace

Wanghai Feng is located 2,795 metres (9,170 feet) above sea level and looks like a standing elephant from a distance. This peak is the best place to enjoy the sunrise and sea clouds. When it is sunny, the eastern sky turns orange and looks just like a sea of flaming red light.

Jinxiu Feng (锦绣峰, Splendid Peak) – South Terrace

The horse-shaped Jinxiu Feng lies at an altitude of 2,485 metres (8,153 feet) above sea level and is famous for the rare flower and plant species (over 100 types!) growing there. In the springtime, the peak turns into a garden filled with red, yellow, blue, white and purple flowers, hence its name — the splendid and beautiful peak. During the midsummer, nature-loving shepherds tend their flock here and their singing resounds in the valleys below.

Guayue Feng (挂月峰, Moon Hanging Peak) – West Terrace

Guayue Feng, said to look like a dancing peacock spreading its tail, is situated 2,773 metres (9,098 feet) above sea level. At night, the moon seems to hang over the summit. It is a popular destination because of the ever-changing view — from the slow-rising sun at dawn to mysterious mists after rain and rosy clouds filling the sky at dusk.

Yedou Feng (叶斗峰, Bucket Handle Peak) – North Terrace

Yedou Feng is 3,061 metres (10,042 feet) above sea level, and is the highest peak of Mount Wutai and Northern China. It is also known as the ‘Ridge of North China’. The name of this towering peak translates directly to ‘Bucket-handle Peak’. It is usually covered with snow from September till April.

Cuiyan Feng (翠岩峰, Jade Rock Peak) – Central Terrace

The lion-shaped Cuiyan Feng is located 2,894 metres (9,494 feet) above sea level. In midsummer, especially after the rain, the verdant moss growing on this peak looks just like the fine jade it is named after. Cuiyan Feng is a good viewing platform for many places on the mountain, and it often enjoys bright sunlight even while the town below is battered with pouring rain.

Temples and Monasteries

Among the 68 temples and monasteries that are existing today, these are some of the recommended ones you should visit.

Dabai Ta (大白塔)

According to the Qingliang-Shan Annals, a Great White Stupa has existed here since the Han Dynasty (202 BCE-220 CE). The present stupa was constructed in 1302 during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 CE) and was designed by a Nepali artisan. It is 56.4 metres (185.04 feet) high and located in Tayuan Si (塔院寺) which is in the southern part of Xiantong Si (显通寺).

The white stupa is striking and eye-catching, especially when set against the red walls of the temple nearby. Adorning the stupa is a carving of Buddha Shakyamuni’s footprint which makes it a sacred place of worship. It is believed that whomever sees the footprint and pays homage to it will have their ill fortune removed.

Tayuan Si (塔院寺)

The most prominent landmark on Mount Wutai, Tayuan Si is best known for housing the Great White Stupa which the temple is named after. Tayuan Temple was originally a pagoda yard south of Xiantong Si, and became an independent temple during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE).

Xiantong Si (显通寺)

Xiantong Si, along with the White Horse Temple in Luoyang, is one of the two earliest temples in China. Originally named Dafulinjiu Si (大孚灵鹫寺), Xiantong Si was first built during the Yongping reign of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 CE), with additions built by succeeding dynasties occupying an area of 80,000 square meters. Located at the foot of Pusading Si (the Bodhisattva Summit), Xiantong Si is the largest of the five famous temples on Mount Wutai. This is why the Buddhist Association of Mount Wutai is situated here.

Within Xiantong Si are three pure copper halls built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), engraved with fine patterns and housing bronze Buddhist statues. The two 13-storied bronze towers on each side were also made during the Ming Dynasty. These towers, each at a height of 8 metres (26.2 feet), are covered with casted Buddha statues, carved patterns and various inscriptions.

Xiantong Si’s court-style construction also includes seven palaces, one of which houses a Manjushri (Wenshu) Bodhisattva statue. The Wuliang Hall of Xiantong Si houses an Amitabha Buddha statue and a Huayan Sutra Stupa. The Copper Hall has a double-eave gable and hip roof that is 5 meters (16.4 feet) high. 10,000 small golden deity figures are also enshrined in the hall. At the front gate stands the biggest copper bell on the mountain which weighs 9,999.5 kilograms (22,045.9 pounds). The sound of the bell can be heard throughout the entire mountain.

Pusa Ding (菩萨顶)

The largest Tibetan monastery on Mount Wutai is Pusa Ding. It is located on the summit of Lingjiu Peak (灵鹫峰), south of Taihuai town. The design and golden roof of Pusa Ding makes it resemble a royal palace, and it has served as the temporary palace of Chinese emperors in the past. Pusa Ding is believed to be an ancient temple where Manjushri dwells.

Originally built during the North Wei Dynasty (471-499 CE), the summit has been reconstructed numerous times. It was especially favoured by the Qing Dynasty’s Emperor Kangxi and Emperor Qianlong, who stayed here while on pilgrimage to the mountain. The emperors had it rebuilt in the Imperial Qing style, which can still be seen today.

Shuxiang Si (殊像寺)

Shuxiang Si is located southwest of Tayuan Si. It was built in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 CE) on 6,400 square metres (68,889 square feet) of land. This temple encompasses over 50 halls and includes the Manjushri Pavilion that houses a 303-centimetre (203-inch) high Manjushri statue.

The temple is the largest within the central area of Taihuai County (where Mount Wutai is located), and has a clear water spring at its front entrance named ‘Banruo’ or ‘Prajna’, meaning ‘wisdom’. The Qing Dynasty emperors used to visit this temple to drink the spring water to attain wisdom and dispel ignorance. Today, many visitors do the same and share this holy water with their loved ones.

Luohou Si (罗睺寺)

Luohou Si, originally named Luofo Si (落佛寺), is located east of Xiantong Si. It was built during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) and later renamed Luohou Si by Emperor Kangxi. At a later date, the temple was converted into a Tibetan Buddhist temple of the Gelug lineage. It is now an important national heritage site of Shanxi Province. At the back of the temple is a wooden lotus-shaped flower that has an exquisitely carved Buddha statue on a square platform.

Nanshan Si (南山寺)

Although located two kilometres (1.25 miles) south of Taihuai Zhen, Nanshan Si is as popular as those temples closer to town. It was first built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 CE) and comprises of seven different terraces that are further divided into three parts. The Yanghuo Temple hosts the upper three terraces, Jile Temple hosts the lower three terraces, and Shande Hall encompasses the middle terrace.

Like several of Mount Wutai’s temples, Nanshan Si has 108 steps leading to the entrance gate. The steps represent the 108 worries (or delusions) of mankind. Each step you take symbolically represents each worry you cast off, so by the time you reach the gate, you are cleansed of your delusions.

A variation on this theme is the meditative chanting of the Buddhist rosary (108 beads) while observing silence. In this manner, pilgrims make their way towards a “pure land”, freeing themselves of temptation and defilement with every step they take.

Longquan Si (龙泉寺)

Longquan Si is another two kilometres (1.25 miles) south of Taihuai Zhen from Nanshan Si. It is recommended to visit both Nanshan Si and Longquan Si together, and this journey can be done within a few hours on foot.

Longquan Si was built during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE) to bless the Yang Family – a family of famous generals. The temple covers 15,950 square metres (171,684 square feet) with 165 buildings located at the foot of Mount Wutai’s central peak.

The temple’s main Buddha image is the Chinese version of Maitreya – the Buddha with a Cloth Sack (Budai Fo), only seen in temples built after the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE). In the temple’s central courtyard is a stupa that contains the remains of Puji, the Abbot of Nanshan Si who passed away in 1917 and is believed to be an emanation of Maitreya. Hence, there are four images on the sides of the stupa of Puji and Maitreya at different ages.

Nanchan Si (南禅寺)

Nanchan Si is one of the oldest Tang Dynasty timber buildings still standing in China. West of the main road to Taiyuan, about 177 kilometres (110 miles) south of Mount Wutai, is a dusty road that leads to this ancient temple. Although the time of its original construction is unknown, Nanchan Si was rebuilt in 782 CE during the Tang Dynasty.

Its main hall is the oldest preserved wood-structure building from the Tang Dynasty. It survived the great Tang persecution of Buddhism in 845 CE when many other temples were destroyed, as it was such a distance from the assemblage of other temples on the mountain.

Today, its small, perfectly proportioned main hall, Dafo Dian (Great Buddha Hall), contains masterpiece sculptures of the Tang Dynasty which have significant historical and artistic value.

Foguang Si (佛光寺)

Another Tang Dynasty wooden building still standing in China is Foguang Si. The temple is 35 kilometres (22 miles) south of Taihuai Village, and was first built during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-589 CE) when Buddhism was the national religion.

The temple had greatly expanded but fell victim to the Tang Dynasty’s anti-Buddhist campaign in 845 CE. After its total destruction, Foguang Si was rebuilt 12 years later with the help of Ning Gongyu, a female benefactor. Dong Dadian (东大殿, Eastern Great Hall), the temple hall that is associated with her, still survives today.

Like the Great Buddha Hall in Nanchan Monastery, it is the only Tang-style building amidst a cluster of mostly Ming and Qing Dynasty halls.

Dailuo Ding (黛螺顶)

Dailuo Ding is located at Taihuai town, a small mountain peak with a temple at its summit. Dailuo means ‘dark green snail’ in Chinese, while Ding means ‘peak’ or ‘summit’. The peak resembles a huge snail and mists wreath the hilltop all year round. Hence, the name Dailuo Ding. It has a gate and archway set amongst verdant trees and green grasses, which create a magnificent natural view.

Dailuo Ding was first constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), but was rebuilt several times afterwards. Emperor Qianlong (1711-1799 CE) of the Qing Dynasty once made it his goal to worship the Manjushri at Dailuo Ding, but failed due to a strong snow storm.

Covering an area of 3,000 square metres (32,291 square feet), this temple houses images of the Buddhas from all five peaks, so those who are constrained by time can simulate the experience of visiting all five peaks by trekking up the 1,080 steps to Dailuo Ding.

Video: Buddhist Temples at Wutai Shan

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/BuddhistTemplesWutaishan.mp4

Apart from the places listed above, there are many others worth visiting such as Jinge Si (Golden Temple), Shifang Tang, Wangfo Si and more. Apart from temple visits, visitors may also hike around the beautiful mountain or participate in activities to meet the locals.

Other Forms of Manjushri

Another form of Manjushri known as Manjushri Namasamgiti together with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge or click here for more beautiful thangkas.

Another form of Manjushri known as Dharmadhatu Vagishvara Manjushri together with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge or click here for more beautiful thangkas.

Visiting Mount Wutai

Entrance Fees:

• RMB 168 (peak season);
• RMB 140 (off peak season, excluding sightseeing vehicles)

Opening Hours: 6:30 am to 6:30 pm (subject to change according to season)

Recommended Visit Duration: 1-3 days

Address:
Taihuai Town,
Wutaishan County,
Xinzhou City,
Shanxi Province, China

Accommodation

There are a range of hotels and hostels on and around the mountain to suit different budgets. Below are some recommendations for your consideration.

Luxury Accommodation

Qixiange Guest Hotel is close to Wuye Si, right in the heart of various tourist attractions. It is a convenient place for tourists to stay while enjoying good service and food.

Address: Wutai, Xinzhou, Wutai County, China, 035515
Tel: +86 350 659 9999

The Wu Tai Mountain Marriott Hotel is located outside the southern gate of the main tourist area. It is a good choice with superior facilities and delicious food served in its three restaurants.

Address: 300 Daganhe Village, Xinzhou, Wutai County, China, 035514
Tel: +86 350 331 8888

Comfortable Accommodation

Situated near Longquan Si about five kilometres (3.10 miles) south of Taihuai Town, Wufeng Hotel is known for its fully equipped and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Address: Dachegou Wutaishan, Wutai County, China, 034000
Tel: +86 350 654 8998

Getting There

Mount Wutai is 370 kilometres (229 miles) from northern Beijing, 180 kilometres (111 miles) from eastern Shijiazhuang (capital of Hebei), and 200 kilometres (124 miles) from southern Taiyuan, the capital of Shanxi Province.

Taihuai township is the hub of Mount Wutai. It is 48 kilometres (29 miles) from Wu Tai Shan Railway Station and is easily accessible by long-distance bus from Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Dingzhou, Taiyuan, Datong, Suozhou and Xinzhou.

By Plane:

While Wu Tai Airport is under construction, visitors can board flights from major cities to Taiyuan Wusu International Airport. From here, take a taxi to the Taiyuan long-distance coach station and board the buses that run between Taiyuan and Mount Wutai.

Helicopters to Mount Wutai are also available from Taiyuan.

By Train:

Mount Wutai’s train station is located in Shahe Town in Fanzhi County, 51 kilometres (31.6 miles) from Taihuai town. You can board the train to Beijing, Taiyuan, Datong, and other places from the station as well.

Those coming from Beijing can get off at the Mount Wutai stop, while visitors from the opposite direction can take a train to Taiyuan. From Taiyuan, it will still take two hours to get to Mount Wutai.

By Bus:

There are long-distance buses to Mount Wutai from Beijing’s Liuliqiao bus station, Shijiazhuang bus station and Datong bus station. There are also buses from Taiyuan and Jinzhou coach stations, and the journey will take one hour.

By Car:

• From Beijing to Mount Wutai:
  Take the Jingshi Express and exit at Baoding. Continue through Shunping, Tangxian and Fuping to get to Wu Tai Shan Road.
• From Taiyuan to Mount Wutai:
  Take the Yuantai Express and exit at Jinzhou. Continue through Dingxiang, Wutai County, Rucun Village and Qingshui River towards the south entrance of Mount Wutai to arrive in Taihuai County.

Chinese Visas

Foreigners are required to apply for a visa to enter China. Applicants can opt for either single or double entry and Tourist/Family Visit Visas or ‘L’ Visas can be obtained easily. The maximum duration of stay under an ‘L’ Visa is 30 days, which is valid for three months upon date of issue.

All visas come into effect upon entering China, and stays of up to 90 or 180 days are possible. Visa applications can be submitted through travel agencies or regional Chinese embassies and consulates. Up-to-date information for visa requirements is best obtained from the local Chinese representative’s office.

The visa application process usually takes three to five business days, while same day or next day services are usually available at a higher fee.

For visa extensions in China, visit the local Public Security Bureau’s Foreign Affairs Department or apply through a local travel agency. A one-month extension may be granted at the discretion of the issuing officer. Consider Hong Kong as a destination for a new visa into China without having to travel too far.

There are certain travel destinations within China that require special travel permits, and applications to visit these locations should be done prior to entering the country to avoid disruptions to travel plans.

Useful Information for Visitors

Climate

Due to its high altitude and cold climate, Mount Wutai’s winter begins as early as October and lasts until April of the following year, with an average temperature of 0°C to 10°C during the day. However, the weather changes drastically from April to October, reaching up to 20°C. Because of this, the best time to visit is actually from May to September. Warm clothing, jackets, umbrellas and sunscreen are a must regardless of when the visit takes place.

Time Zone

China’s official time zone is UTC+8. According to the world time zoning standard, although China’s land mass lies between the eastern 5^th to 9^th time zones, all locations in China have adopted the eastern 8^th time zone, commonly known as ‘Beijing Time’, for the sake of convenience.

Ethnic Groups

China officially recognises 56 distinct ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Han who constitute 91.51% of the total population according to a 2010 survey. Ethnic minorities constitute 8.49% of China’s population including the Zhuang (1.28%), Manchu (0.84%), Uyghur (0.78%), Hui (0.71%), Miao (0.71%), Yi (0.61%), Tujia (0.63%), Mongol (0.46%), Tibetan (0.43%), Buyi (0.23%), and Korean (0.15%). Regardless of differences in population figures, all ethnic groups share equal rights in China.

Religions

China is a multi-religious country where Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Catholicism have all developed with large numbers of followers. The government’s policy is to allow freedom of belief and general religious activities are protected by the constitution.

Language

Chinese is the official language of China for written and spoken communication. Among the 56 ethnic groups, the Hui and Manchu use the same Chinese language as the Han while the others have their own spoken and written language. Chinese has also been used as a written language for over 6,000 years, and is one of the five working languages designated by the United Nations.

Family Names

Chinese family names came into being around 5,000 years ago. Among the 5,000 or more family names, 200-300 are more popular and are commonly encountered. In Chinese culture, the family name comes first, followed by the first and second names. For instance, the family name of Ma Sanbao is ‘Ma’.

Etiquette

1. Homes and Temples
Remove your shoes before entering homes or temples. This is a custom followed by many Chinese. Do not worry if your feet are less than presentable. You can always ask your host whether you should remove your shoes before entering. Avoid showing the soles of your feet to others while seated. When you sit and cross your legs, point your feet towards yourself.

2. Conversation Topics
Unless absolutely necessary, the Chinese avoid talking about death at all times as it is considered a serious and ominous topic. The colours white and black represent death, and as such should be avoided when gifts are given. Avoid wrapping gifts in black and white paper or ribbons.

Comparisons between China and Japan as well as political and religious issues should also be avoided in conversation, as it could cause embarrassment. Avoiding topics such as these will keep your conversations positive and friendly.

3. Interpersonal Communication
Patience is very necessary when travelling to a foreign country. Do not expect the locals to speak English; if you can communicate in the local language however limited it may be, they will appreciate it greatly. A travel phrasebook may come in handy during your stay. When communicating, avoid pointing at people or beckoning with one finger. Instead, motion with the palm of your hand.

4. Affectionate Touch
Chinese do not show their affection freely with hugs or kisses. They may push and shove up against others for a place in line or a seat in public but when you first meet them, it might be best to simply greet them verbally or with a slight nod of your head instead of trying to shake hands. Handshakes, kisses and hugs may feel unnatural to most Chinese, as personal contact is not common. Due to differences in tradition and religion, a person’s head is considered most sacred, and to touch another person on the head is generally considered disrespectful.

5. Gift Giving
Consider travelling with gifts especially if your travel plans include meetings with individuals. Appropriate gifts given at appropriate times may be useful in building a good and friendly relationship with the locals. It is usually considered appropriate in China for the receiver to refuse a gift to show restraint. Generally, a gift may require several offers before it is finally accepted as a sign that the receiver isn’t greedy. Likewise, to save the giver’s face, a gift may not be opened in your presence. The same principle is applied to a compliment that isn’t usually accepted to prevent the appearance of vanity.

6. Choosing Gifts
Items to be avoided as gifts include chrysanthemums, gladioli, clocks and white handkerchiefs, as these items connote death and sadness to the Chinese. Generally speaking, various cultures in China ascribe different meanings to certain colours. Yellow, pink and red are acceptable colours for gift wrapping, but avoid white and dark colours that are commonly associated with bad luck.

The world umbrella (伞) in Chinese sounds like ‘the act to split up’, hence it is not an item to be given as a gift. Green hats are also taboo, as the phrase ‘to wear a green hat’ (戴绿帽) means ‘to be cuckolded by one’s unfaithful wife’ in Chinese.

As the Chinese word for ‘four’ sounds like the word for ‘death’, you should avoid giving anything in fours. However, gifts that come in sets of eight or nine, such as a set of eight or nine tea cups or pieces of candy are considered a good omen. ‘Eight’ is pronounced ‘fa’ (发) in Chinese, and sounds like another word with the same pronunciation, meaning ‘wealth’ or ‘good fortune’, while ‘nine’ is pronounced ‘jiu’, (久) which sounds like another word meaning ‘long lasting’ or ‘long life’.

Whether you are receiving or giving gifts, please do so with both hands as a sign of respect.

7. Tips
Tipping is not a practice that is observed in China. Cab drivers, restaurant staff and hotel bellboys do not expect to be tipped and may be offended if offered extra money. However, there is an exception to this practice, which is during tours catered to foreign visitors. The individuals working on these tours often depend on tips for their income so it is wise to budget for tipping guides and drivers.

8. Chinese Hosts
The standard practice at a meal hosted by a Chinese person is for the elder or senior person to invite guests and be the host. Although they may be unsure what a foreigner will do when they invite you to a meal, amongst themselves they are clear who the host will be. The host will order all dishes for the meal without the consent of others, and it is considered rude if guests start ordering their own food. Although it may be acceptable for a foreigner to tell the host what they like or dislike, most often it is still considered bad etiquette. Restaurant bills are never shared in China. There is no practice of splitting the bill, and it may embarrass the host if you chip in to help cover the cost. Bear in mind that if you invite people out for a meal, you are expected to pay the entire bill.

9. Table Manners
Chopsticks should be used appropriately throughout meals. Chopsticks are meant to be used for eating only, so do not use them to gesture towards items or individuals, or use them as drumsticks or as play items at the dining table. Chopsticks are to be placed on top of the bowl when the meal is finished, not inside the bowl, and definitely not straight up in the food as that is an ill omen representing death or a curse against others at the table. Learn to hold chopsticks by not sticking any of your fingers out and pointing at others at the table.

10. Stay Calm and Patient
It is very common for something unexpected to happen while you are traveling. Do not make a scene or get upset, as this will lead to the people you are dealing with to lose face, leaving the situation unresolved. Always remain calm and patient when dealing with the unexpected in China, or ask your guide for help in solving the issue at hand.

 
Sources:

• http://www.chinadiscovery.com/shanxi/mount-wutai.html
• http://www.chinadiscovery.com/wutaishan-tours/weather.html
• http://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/shanxi/taiyuan/mt_wutai.htm
• https://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/shanxi/taiyuan/wusu-airport.htm
• http://www.visitourchina.com/taiyuan/attraction/mt-wutai.html
• http://www.frommers.com/destinations/wutai-shan/attractions/overview
• http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1279
• http://www.china-window.com/china_travel/china_tourism/brief-introduction-to-chi.shtml
• https://www.topchinatravel.com/china-guide/china-quick-facts.htm
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_China
• https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/article-things-not-to-do-in-china.htm
• https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/china-in-brief.htm
• http://www.rigpawiki.org/index.php?title=Wutai_Shan
• http://www.chinaholidays.com/guide/chinese-visa.html
• http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/m/shanxi/wutaishan/2014-10/17/content_18759357.htm
• http://www.cits.net/china-travel-guide/Wutaishan/

 
For more interesting information:

• Pilgrimage to Mount Wutai
• Mount Wutai – The Earthly Abode of Lord Manjushri
• Sacred Mountain of Manjushri
• A Kecharian Pilgrimage to Wu Tai Shan
• 五台山——文殊菩萨人间道场
• 五台山朝圣之旅
• Must visit Bodhgaya – The Navel of the World
• Buddha at Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya
• Power Place: Jog Falls
• Holy Place of Kuan Yin
• 74 Grand Statues of the World
• Wonderful Sri Lanka
• Must visit Chengdu (exotic and exciting)

Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:

If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team