GHF Progress in Foguang, Temple, Shanxi China

Built during the Tang Dynasty, Foguang Temple is a tribute to the peak of Buddhist art and architecture from the 9th century, being the oldest major wooden temple in China and representing the last remaining and earliest monument of Tang Dynasty classical Chinese architecture. However, the temple has not been repaired or conserved since the 17th century, and extensive structural damage is occurring from falling rocks and rotting roofing, beams and pillars. To arrest this destruction, GHF is leading a three-pronged program to save Foguang Temple and its monastery complex.

1. List of currently undertaken and proposed architectural conservation of major halls and buildings in 2008:
- Tianwang Hall/Entrance Gate - ongoing
- Xiangfeng Huayu Building - proposed work
- Senhuizhi Garden Gate - ongoing
- Northern Wing - in completion
- Monks‘ quarter - ongoing

2. Emergency supports for the northeast and northwest corners of the Grand East Hall - Dongda Dian -is in place. The conservation plan for the Grand East Hall has been reviewed and is in revision; due to the importance of the structure, further investigation and research are required to better inform the conservation treatments.

3. Conservation plan for the eight historic tomb pagodas in the surrounding vicinity has been completed and submitted for review.

4. Restoration of the Master’s Tomb Pagoda, adjacent to the Grand East Hall, has been completed.

5. Flood protection works on both sides of the temple is underway.

6. Infrastructure and upgrading projects include main roadways, ground paving, landscaping, drainage and flood prevention, power and security systems, fire access route, flush system toilet, etc.

7. Other upgrading works include the “Shadow Wall”, facing the main entrance and mortar infill at various extant structures.