Baoguo Temple

Baoguo Temple is a Buddhist monastic complex at the foot of Emei Shan in Sichuan province, founded during the Ming dynasty in 1573 and designated a protected monument of the People's Republic of China. Emei Shan is one of the Four Sacred Mountains of Chinese Buddhism, and Baoguo serves as its ceremonial gateway — every pilgrim ascending the mountain passes through this compound first. The name translates roughly as 'Temple for the Protection of the Nation,' reflecting the close ties between imperial patronage and Buddhist monastic culture during the Ming era. The complex comprises several main halls, incense pavilions, and tree-shaded courtyards that remain in active religious use today. For visitors, it offers a quiet introduction to Chan Buddhist practice before the longer trail into the mountain begins.