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- Location: Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province

Baoguo Temple (保國(guó)寺), situated 15 kilometers from downtown Ningbo City on the side of Lingshan Mountain, is the oldest and most completely preserved wooden structure in south China. The main hall of the present temple dates back to 1013.

It consists of Shan Men (Mountain Gate), Tian Wang Dian (Hall of Heavenly King), Da Dian (Grand Hall), and the Scripture Repository, occupying an area of 13,000 square meters.

As the oldest and best-preserved example of wooden architecture south of the Yangtze River, the Grand Hall is invaluable to those studying the nation's architectural history and it remains a mystery to scientists.

The hall was built without a single nail or beam. Strangely, no dust has accumulated inside, and birds have never ventured inside to make nests. The Bell Tower, the Drum Tower and the Guest House are scattered along the hall.

Travel Tips:

1. There are 17 showrooms open to tourists who wish to learn more during their visit.

- Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

- Admission: 20 yuan

- Tel: +86-574-87586317/83070065

- How to get there: take bus No. 332