Mange Buddhist Temple in Jinghong City,Xishuangbanna

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🧭 Overview

📜 Historical Significance

Known in Dai as Wat Latsatan Mangguo (“Central Temple of Mangguo”), this revered Theravāda Buddhist temple dates back to 914 CE (Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period). It was relocated to its current site in 1598 (Ming Dynasty) and remains one of the oldest active temples in Jinghong.

Recognized as a Yunnan Provincial Cultural Heritage Site (2003).

Notable for its traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery—the entire temple is constructed without nails or metal fasteners, showcasing advanced craftsmanship.

📍 Location

Nestled in Mangguo Village, northern bank of the Lancang River (Mekong), Jinghong City. Surrounded by tropical trees such as bodhi and mango, and traditional Dai bamboo houses.
Address: Lane 102, Downtown Jinghong.

🏛️ Architecture & Artistic Features

🧱 Layout & Structure

Covers approximately 2,300 square meters, comprising:

Main Hall

Ordination Hall (戒堂)

Drum House

Monk Dormitories

Entrance Pavilion

Covered Walkways

⛩️ Main Hall Highlights

Triple-eaved hip roof, decorated with lotus bases, flame-shaped mi dang, and auspicious birds on the corners.

Supported by 16 red Chinese cedar pillars, with carvings of crouching elephants and lion kings at beam ends.

🎨 Religious Art

Interior features a high platform altar (须弥座) with a 4-meter gilded Shakyamuni statue.

Murals depict Jātaka tales (Buddha’s past lives), enhanced with golden reliefs on columns and beams.

A 400-year-old Burmese bronze stupa, gifted by the Burmese royal family, crowns the roof—symbolizing cross-border Buddhist ties.

🧘‍♂️ Visitor Experience

✅ Highlights Not to Miss

Architectural Marvel: Witness the mortise-and-tenon framework—a living legacy of Dai woodworking mastery.

Cultural Immersion: Join Buddhist rituals during Water Splashing Festival (April) or Opening Gate Festival (October).

Photo Moment: After 3 PM, the play of light and shadow between ancient trees and ochre-red walls creates stunning compositions.

📜 Visitor Information

🔗 Nearby Attractions

Lancang River Scenic Walk: View river-and-mountain vistas from the bridge, feel the harmony of Dai village life and water culture.

Mangguo Village Stroll: Explore surrounding bamboo dwellings, observe Dai brocade weaving, and pottery-making workshops.

⚠️ Travel Tips

Rainy Season (June–Sept): Bring mosquito repellent.

Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Ideal for photos; wear sun protection.

Preservation Notice: Refrain from touching murals, wood carvings, or reliefs, as they are structurally fragile.

💎 Cultural Value

Mangguo Temple is a living embodiment of Dai architectural aesthetics and Theravāda Buddhist devotion. Its active religious life, including international pilgrimages during the Water Splashing Festival, sustains a vibrant intangible heritage in real time.