Misty rain at the Guoqing Temple

The Guoqing Temple is famous not only because it is the birthplace of the Tiantai sect, but also because it rejects the commercial model that most temples in the world follow today. The moment you step through the temple gate, a sense of peace and warmth floods every cell of your body, bringing joy to both mind and body. You can sit quietly in the teahouse, sipping tea, listening to the rain, or reading a book. Despite the misty drizzle, it does not hinder the fragrance of the flowers in the courtyard from blooming. The earthy yellow walls, though somewhat damaged, contain an ancient and civilized aura in every corner. Standing under the thousand-year-old plum tree, it feels as if you've stepped back into the Sui and Tang dynasties.