🕌 大召寺 Dazhao Temple – Hohhot’s Oldest, Grandest, and Most Revered Temple

After exploring the quieter Xilituzhao Temple, I made my way to the magnificent Dazhao Temple (大召)—a true highlight of Hohhot’s spiritual heritage.

✨ Built in 1580, this is the oldest and largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in the city. It once hosted the Qing Emperor Kangxi, and ever since, it’s held a special imperial status—so revered that the tradition of reincarnating Living Buddhas was discontinued here out of respect.

The moment you step into its vast courtyard, you’ll be awed by the grandeur of its architecture, golden columns, and solemn atmosphere—even in the summer heat. ☀️

🌟 What to Look Out For:

📿 The “Three Marvelous Treasures”
• A stunning 2.5m Silver Buddha (Sakyamuni)
• Ornate golden dragon pillars flanking the main hall
• A historic mural commemorating the Emperor’s visit

🎨 You’ll also find intricate murals, traditional musical instruments, and collections of ancient Buddhist scriptures that showcase the temple’s deep cultural and religious roots.

🌞 Summer Travel Tips:
• Come in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun—there’s limited shade!
• Carry water and wear a hat—those golden pillars shimmer beautifully under the sun, but it gets hot!
• You can easily combine this with Xilituzhao, just across the street, for a meaningful temple-hopping afternoon.

📍Located in Hohhot’s Old Town, Dazhao is more than just a temple—it’s a living witness to Inner Mongolia’s intertwined history of religion, royalty, and art.

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