Shaxi temple restoration project nears completion
This month, I’m so pleased to write that after nearly two and a half years, all structural work on the Sheltered Mercy Nunnery (Pear Orchard Temple) is complete. All that remains are the details of decorative painting. Some big improvements that we made in the past month were a functioning water system (including fire suppression), a new kitchen, a 100-year retaining wall, a 100 square meter sun terrace, exterior lighting and basic furnishings.
This is the 2nd major Shaxi temple restoration project after the Swiss team completed the Duan Village Theatre Temple (now part of Old Theatre Inn) and the large Buddhist temple in Sideng, Xingjiao Si (兴教寺)
In remembrance of why Nam and I embarked on this project in the first place, I’ve posted the video below on YouTube (the Chinese version 中文版 is immediately following). These will be part of the media display in the upcoming temple gallery. I want to thank British composer Max Richter and Mute Song Ltd. for allowing us to license his music, On the Nature of Daylight.
A Selection of Before and After Restoration Photos 2012-2014
East Classroom
East classroom complete
Overgrown path and leaning wall 2010
Tamping down sundeck foundation using rammed earth wall tools
Terrace made from etched pigmented cement
Jade Emperor front wall prior to rebuild (note bricked-up door)
Jade Emperor front wall after rebuild
Preparing to contain the slope
Retaining wall complete
Upper Hall 2011
Upper Hall complete
New kitchen
Smoke hood and stainlness cooking area
Teahouse 2011
Pear Blossom Organic Restaurant – Pear Orchard Temple Shaxi Yunnan China
Nun’s dormitory 2011
Nun’s dormitory 2014
Thangka from the Barclay’s collection
Newly uncovered stone writing
Look for our next update in August, which will highlight our staff, galleries and decor. Thanks for sharing the video with friends.