Dazhao Temple (大召寺), located in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist temple belonging to the Gelug school (also known as the Yellow Hat sect). The name “Dazhao” translates to “big temple” in Mongolian, while its Tibetan name means “temple.” Originally named Hongci Temple, it was later renamed Wuliang Temple and is also commonly referred to as Silver Buddha Temple due to the presence of a silver statue of Buddha inside.
The temple was founded by Alatan Khan, the leader of the Tumd Mongol tribe, in the seventh year of the Wanli era (1579 AD) during the Ming Dynasty, and it was completed in 1580. As the earliest Lamaist temple built in Hohhot, Dazhao Temple holds historical significance. Notably, Emperor Kangxi once stayed here for a few days, and in his honor, the monks decided to forgo the tradition of reincarnation for the living Buddha, making Dazhao one of the few Mongolian temples without a living Buddha.
Dazhao Temple is not only a sacred site for Buddhist practice but also a renowned tourist destination. Its magnificent architecture, precious cultural relics and artworks, as well as the mystical Qiamu Dance and Buddhist music, contribute to the unique cultural atmosphere known as “Dazhao Culture.”
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Remarkable Cultural Relics at Dazhao Temple
- Festivals and Ceremonies at Dazhao Temple
- Vlog about Dazhao Temple
- Attractions Near Dazhao Temple
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 35 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.30; Last admission: 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0471-6306166 |
Location and Transportation
Dazhao Temple is located at Dazhao Qianjie, Yuquan District, Hohhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. To get there, you can take bus 6, 38, 42, 58, 59, or 209 and get off at Dazhao Stop (大召站).
Remarkable Cultural Relics at Dazhao Temple
Silver Buddha: The centerpiece of the temple is the Silver Buddha, a statue of Shakyamuni crafted by Nepali artisans. Made from 30,000 taels of pure silver, this statue stands at 3 meters tall and is one of the largest silver Buddha statues in China, dating back over 400 years. Historical records indicate that when the statue was completed, the Third Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso, visited Dazhao to perform the “consecration ceremony,” which is why the temple is often referred to as Silver Buddha Temple.
Dragon Carvings: Flanking the Silver Buddha are two magnificent golden dragons, each about 10 meters tall, intricately carved on towering pillars. These dragons, which appear to be soaring through the air, showcase the superb artistry of Ming Dynasty dragon carvings. Crafted from clay and material stone, these exquisite sculptures exemplify the meticulous craftsmanship of the period.
Murals: The murals at Dazhao Temple are a defining feature, rich in subject matter and vibrant in presentation. They depict various Buddhist figures and stories, illustrating scenes from heaven, earth, and hell. Among the most captivating are the depictions of the Buddha engaging in debates and contests of magic with other spiritual masters. The murals boast over 770 characters, including divine and mortal figures, and reflect the high artistic level of Ming Dynasty painting. Created using natural stone pigments, the murals retain their vivid colors even after centuries.
Inscription Plaques: The architecture of Dazhao Temple represents a blend of Tibetan and Han styles, divided into eastern, central, and western sections, with the main building located in the middle. Above the southern entrance hangs an inscription plaque that reads “九边第一泉 The First Spring of the Nine Borders.” According to legend, during the Qing Dynasty, Emperor Kangxi stopped at Dazhao while returning to the capital after a western expedition. In the heat of summer, the emperor’s horse dug into the ground, and a spring emerged, leading to the legend of the “Royal Horse Spring.”
Festivals and Ceremonies at Dazhao Temple
Displaying the Buddha: This is one of the grandest Buddhist events at Dazhao Temple, taking place twice a year on the 15th day of the first and sixth lunar months. During this event, a precious statue of Maitreya Buddha (the Future Buddha), measuring 2 zhang long and 1.5 zhang wide, is brought out and hung in front of the main hall. A ceremonial gathering is held in front of the statue, where monks chant prayers and play traditional Buddhist music. Devotees come to pay their respects to the Buddha, offering silk scarves (hada) and making donations. This ritual not only allows the public to admire the statue and receive blessings but also exposes the artwork to the elements, helping to preserve it and prevent damage from insects.
Jumping Chamo: Known as “Jumping God Dance,” this event is a significant part of Dazhao’s religious activities. It is performed to drive away evil spirits, celebrate harvests, and wish for a prosperous year ahead. Large-scale jumping chamo performances occur twice a year during the first and sixth lunar months. Participants wear traditional costumes and masks, portraying various deities. They dance to the accompaniment of unique Tibetan instruments such as large horns, conch shells, and cymbals, creating a solemn yet vibrant atmosphere. The performances are both mesmerizing and dynamic.
Sending Away the Baling: This activity, meaning “sending away the ghost,” is unique to Tibetan Buddhism and is held twice a year during the first and sixth lunar months. The “Baling” is a three-edged figure made of oil dough, topped with a skull to represent a demon. The event begins with chanting prayers, followed by participants carrying the baling from the temple to a public square, where a dance is performed to symbolize exorcising the demons. After the dance, the baling is taken outside the temple gates and burned, signifying the removal of misfortune and illness for the year. The entire event is lively, drawing large crowds of spectators.
