Beijing, April 28 (Youth.cn) - On April 27, 2025, Beijing’s Chengen Temple, long shrouded in mystery under its centuries-old "three prohibitions" (no incense offerings, no religious ceremonies, no public access), has opened to visitors alongside the Yanjing Eight Masterpieces Museum. Nestled along ancient western Beijing pathways, this Ming Dynasty gem now blends heritage with innovation, unveiling its secrets through digital technology while enforcing a daily visitor cap of 600 via timed reservations.

Designated a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit (Sixth Batch), Chengen Temple was built during Emperor Zhengde’s reign (1506 - 1521) in the Ming Dynasty. Its enigmatic aura stems from its historic rules and unique architecture: four Ming-era watchtowers, underground tunnels, and a rare “回”character shaped courtyard layout, speculated to have served as a base for the imperial secret police (Jinyiwei). Today, three restored courtyards showcase treasures like imperial calligraphy plaques and arrow-slit windows, while the Yanjing Eight Masterpieces Museum highlights exquisite craftsmanship.

The reopening’s crown jewel is its tech integration:

AI Guide "Enen:" A holographic host narrates the temple’s legends.

Ming Murals Reborn: Nanoscale scanning recreates the long-hidden Heavenly Kings Hall frescoes as hyper-detailed replicas.

AR Time Travel: Augmented reality resurrects Ming-era construction scenes.

Artistic Marvels: Standouts include a Ming ivory-carved Guanyin statue, its natural cracks harmonizing with flowing robes, exemplifying "Yanjing Eight Masterpieces" artistry.

Visitor Essentials

Hours: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed midday 12:00–1:00; closed Mondays).

Tickets: ￥30 (standard), ￥50 (guided). Free entry for active military, disabled visitors; half-price for students/teachers.

Booking: Reservations via Shijingshan Culture and Tourism WeChat official account only; no on-site sales.

Once repurposed as school dormitories for 50 years, Chengen Temple has reemerged after two decades of meticulous restoration as a "living museum." Where Ming-era watchtowers meet cutting-edge tech, and faded frescoes converse with modern craftsmanship, this western Beijing marvel rewrites the playbook for cultural preservation - a symphony of history, innovation, and public engagement. Photo/CFP