Ta'er Monastery

Located in Huangzhong County, Qinghai Province, 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) away from the capital city of Qinghai Province - Xining. In order to commemorate Tsong Khapa (1357-1419), founder of the Yellow Hat Sect, the Ta'er Monastery was built in 1577 more than 150 years after his death. Now the Ta'er Monastery is considered a sacred place in China.

In the Tibetan language, Ta'er Monastery is called 'gongben', which means '10,000 figures of Buddha'. During its long 400 years of history, it has gradually become a place of interest for its distinct ethnic color and native style. Among so many buildings, the Great Hall of the Golden Roof and the Great Hall of Meditation are the main parts. As the center core building, the Great Hall of the Golden Roof is in the middle of the monastery. Its colorful gates, which are different in length, are carved into various flower patterns and painted with multifarious fresh colors. The surfaces of the walls are covered with green ceramic tiles and embedded with countless pearls, agates, and gems, making the whole hall sparkle.

The Ta'er Monastery is rich in fascinating arts. The famous butter sculptures, the barbolas, and the murals are considered to be the three most unique arts of superb craftsmanship.