What is the earliest existing wooden structure in China?

The earliest existing wooden structure building is Wutaishan Beige Temple, which was built in the third year of Tang Jianzhong (782) and is the oldest and largest existing wooden structure building in China.

Beige Temple in Wutai Mountain is the earliest wooden structure building in the history of China and one of the most well-preserved and historic ancient wooden structures in China. It is located in Foguang Mountain, Wutai County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province. Built in the third year of Tang Jianzhong (782), it has a history of 1200 years. Next, I will introduce this ancient wooden building to you in detail from the historical background, architectural features and cultural values.

Beige Temple in Wutai Mountain was built in the middle of Tang Dynasty, which was an important building in Buddhist temples in Wutai Mountain area at that time. Wutai Mountain, located in the north of Shanxi Province, is one of the famous Buddhist mountains in China. It has been a sacred place of Buddhism since ancient times. During the Tang Dynasty, the development of Buddhism in Wutai Mountain reached its peak and became one of the national Buddhist centers. In this context, Bukoji Hall was built and became one of the most representative wooden structures in Wutai Mountain area.

Structural form: Wutaishan Beige Temple adopts the typical architectural style of Tang Dynasty, with wooden frame as the main load-bearing structure, and there are two structural forms: beam-lifting type and bucket-piercing type. This structure makes the main hall stand still after many natural disasters such as earthquakes.

Bucket arch design: The bucket arch design in the main hall is very unique, using complex bucket arch combination and exquisite carving technology. As one of the important elements of traditional architecture in China, the bucket arch has been fully embodied in the Academy of Military Sciences, showing the exquisite skills and aesthetic pursuit of architecture in the Tang Dynasty.

Cultural value

Historical Witness: As one of the earliest existing wooden structures, the North Monk Hall in Wutai Mountain witnessed the development of ancient architectural skills in China and the prosperity of Buddhist culture in Tang Dynasty. It provides valuable information for us to study ancient architectural techniques, religious culture and social history.

Art treasures: The architectural style and artistic features of Beige Temple reflect the aesthetic pursuit and artistic achievements of the Tang Dynasty architecture. Its exquisite bucket arch design, gorgeous roof modeling and rich decorative elements all show the unique charm and artistic value of Tang Dynasty architecture.