The temple where even deities clash—Shuanglin Temple in Shanxi

The Four Heavenly Kings of Shuanglin Temple in Pingyao, Shanxi, are the best group I have seen so far. They have a firm gaze that exudes majesty, and even a bit of fierceness, but the Four Heavenly Kings at Pule Temple seem to have more of a human touch. It feels like behind their seriousness, they also have moments of hearty laughter. Perhaps when the night is deep and the temple is empty, they might even have a deep conversation about life. 📍Detailed address: Shuanglin Temple, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City 🕙Opening hours: 08:00-18:00 Ticket💰: 28 yuan per person 🛑: Flash photography prohibited 🌟Highlights: 1. Thousand-Handed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin: Located in the Bodhisattva Hall, it is an incarnation of the Guanyin Bodhisattva. The expression is solemn yet full of compassion. The four walls of the hall are adorned with hundreds of standing Bodhisattva statues, with flowing robes, lifelike in appearance. 2. Carefree Guanyin: Located in the Thousand Buddha Hall, the statue has its right leg bent and squatting, with the left foot stepping on a lotus leaf, relaxed and carefree. It is considered one of the two most beautiful existing statues along with the Carefree Guanyin of Zhengding Longxing Temple. 3. Skanda: Located in front of the Carefree Guanyin statue, the body presents a clear curved shape, much like a fully drawn bow ready to shoot, strong and powerful. It reflects the bravery and magnificence of ancient warriors, and with its vivid facial expressions, this masterpiece is also known as the most beautiful Skanda.