Eight Outer Monasteries

Introduction

The Eight Outer Monasteries were built during the 18th century and together with the Imperial Summer Villa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally part of a group of 12 temples, each was built to reflect the architectural styles of a different minority group, with the aim of being welcoming to officials and visitors at the imperial court.

The monasteries are grouped into 2 sections close to the Wulie River. The Eastern Temples (Anyuan, Pule and Puren) and the Northern Temples (Putuozongcheng, Ximifushou, Puning, Puyou and Shuxiang). Only Puning Temple is still in active use.