Pictures Of Abbot And Buddhist Monks At Different Buddhist Temples In China.

We might have been the guests of Xing Du but he still had his duties to perform at different times of the day. We were present when he led the Mantra Chant, and the traditional way of paying respects to the Buddha. He is shown here with hands together, ready to prostrate himself on the cushion, before the Buddha Shrine. We also joined Xing Du and the Monks at meal times, where they were served and attended to, by the pupils, who had their meals later. During the meals, there was no talking.

There were a number of buildings in the grounds of the Temple, each having its own purpose. In the hall shown on the left there were a number of models of the Buddha, and other famous named followers who had earned their position of fame during their lifetime. Perhaps we could name them as Disciples Of Buddha. Against the ski line, behind this building, is an indication of the position the Buddhist Temple occupies, at the side of mountains. There are clear views of the mountains behind, and of the valley below, at least when the air is free of mist and clouds.

We went to another Buddhist Temple where the Abbot was considered to be very learned in Meditation, one of the principles of Buddhism. He was also in the process of bringing the Baochan Temple into the modern world, so there was much construction work in progress at the time of our visit.

We had lunch in a new restaurant that had seating accommodation, for more than 300 people. In the picture, the Abbot is seated to my left, then Xing Du. To my right is seated my 'right hand man', Chu Xin, known as Chuck.

One of the very imposing buildings in the grounds of the Baochan Temple was the Dormitory for the Monks and students at the Temple. There were no signs that this Temple had been ''commercialised'', but whether visitors are generally able to visit this Temple is unknown to me. Before we left, the Abbot presented me with a box containing 6 tins of Chinese Tea, and one of his books, written in Chinese, and with an inscription.