Dafo Temple was originally built during the Southern Han Dynasty (917-971) and was one of four renowned Buddhist Temples in Guangzhou. In its heyday, the temple covered a vast area of 30,000 square metres and was home to over a hundred monks.

Illustration of Dafo Temple expansion

However, the 20th century brought havoc and destruction to the temple and today only the main hall remains, representing a fifth of the original complex. An ambitious renovation plan has now been drawn up by the authorities, aiming to expand the temple once more. Postponed due to opposition from nearby residents, construction shall start by the end this month and after completion, a totally new "Dafo Temple Cultural Square" covering 16,000 square metres will be opened on Xihu Lu, near Beijing Pedestrian Street.

(Win He and David Keyton)(The End)