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Mati Temple
Introducing Mati Temple
Mati Temple, located in Gansu Province, is one of the most important Buddhist sacred sites in China. Mati Temple’s construction dates back to 397 AD. Legend tells of a celestial horse, journeying to the Western Paradise to pay homage to Amitabha Buddha, who was so charmed by the breathtaking scenery of Mati Temple that it left a deep hoofprint on a cliff face while soaring through the air. This is how the temple earned its name, which translates to “Horse Hoof Temple.”
Mati Temple is renowned for its extensive and well-preserved Buddhist cave art. With a history spanning over 1600 years, dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), the cave complex encompasses seven sections with over 70 grottoes stretching nearly 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Among them, 37 caves still house cultural relics, including over 500 precious clay statues and over 1,200 square meters of murals, showcasing a unique blend of artistic styles that distinguish it from other cave complexes in the country. Despite centuries of weathering, Mati Temple remains incredibly well-preserved, its vibrant art continuing to leave visitors in awe.
Mati Temple Fast Facts
• AKA: Horse Hoof Temple
• Chinese Name: Ma Ti Si 马蹄寺
• Best Time to Visit: April, May, Sept & October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 3 to 4 hours
• Type: Buddhism, Grottoes
• Opening Hours: 08:30-18:30
• Entrance Fee: CNY39 (Mati Temple Scenic Area), CNY35 (North Temple Grottoes), CNY80 (Grottoes No.1-4)
• Address: Matisi, Sunan Yugu Nationality Autonomous County, Zhangye, Gansu Province
What to Expect at Mati Temple
Mati Temple offers more than just stunning grottoes. It’s a place where natural beauty and cultural history intertwine. Lush forests provide cool shade, and clear springs cascade down cliffs, their sounds blending with the wind whispering through the remarkable rock formations. Ancient scholars left their poetic inscriptions on the landscape, adding another layer to this unforgettable experience of beauty and reflection.
Ta’er Liang
Ta’er Liang, overlooking the sprawling Mati Temple complex, provides a breathtaking vantage point for capturing the essence of this historical and spiritual site. The panoramic view is dominated by two imposing white stupas, each reaching a height of 12 meters (39.3 feet), their stark white forms contrasting beautifully against the surrounding landscape. One stupa serves as the final resting place for relics of Sakya Pandita, a highly esteemed Tibetan Buddhist scholar who journeyed to Mati Temple to impart his wisdom and teachings.The other stupa, equally impressive in its grandeur, is dedicated to Emperor Jingzong of the Western Xia Dynasty (1038-1227), highlighting the temple’s historical connection to this powerful empire.
The Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes
The Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, a remarkable seven-tiered pagoda rising 43 meters (141 ft), are a physical manifestation of the Buddhist heaven “Trayastrimsha” (Sanskrit for “Thirty-Three”). This celestial realm, home to thirty-three devas including their king Śakra (Indra), is intricately represented in the grottoes’ design and symbolism. The structure serves as a powerful reminder of the Buddhist path towards liberation from suffering through cultivating wholesome actions.
The Grotto of the Standing Buddha
The Grotto of the Standing Buddha, the largest grotto at Mati Temple, is a remarkable series of caves carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534). Boasting the largest single-cave area in China, its unique layout resembles a convex shape, encompassing several distinct sections including an antechamber, a worship hall, and connecting passageways. The grotto’s centerpiece was a magnificent eight-meter-tall (26 ft) standing Buddha statue. Notably, this statue housed a white jade Tara statue within its abdomen, giving rise to the grotto’s alternative name, the “Grotto of the Hidden Buddha.” Adding to the grotto’s mystique is a well known as the “Holy Water,” believed to bestow health benefits and protect those who drink from it from illness and misfortune.”
The Thousand Buddha Caves
The Thousand Buddha Caves, a complex of 8 caves nestled within the contours of a cliff face, is divided into south, central, and north sections. The caves primarily feature Buddhist grottoes, with the north section uniquely showcasing a forest of relief-carved stone pagodas. The cave sculptures are remarkable for their intricate structure and grandeur. Vividly colored and skillfully executed, they depict a multitude of Buddhist figures, reflecting the high artistic caliber of Chinese cave sculpture in the 5th century.
For instance, Cave No. 1 houses a striking statue adorned in a long, flowing robe draped over both shoulders. The figure exudes both strength and serenity, its face radiating benevolence and compassion. While later generations added paint and decorations, the statue retains its original brilliance and charm, a testament to the artistry of its time.
The Jinta Temple Grottoes
The Jinta Temple Grottoes, dating back to the Northern Liang Dynasty (397-439), are a treasure trove of Buddhist art. Over 260 painted sculptures and 600 square meters of murals offer a glimpse into the religious and artistic landscape of the time. Sculpted deities, including Amitabha Buddha and Maitreya, exude tranquility, while attendant Bodhisattvas and disciples complete the divine tableau. Particularly striking are the flying apsaras, celestial nymphs sculpted in dynamic poses that seem to defy gravity. Faded murals on the western grotto ceiling depict heavenly beings and worshipping Bodhisattvas, showcasing the delicate artistry of the Northern Liang Dynasty. These surviving artworks eloquently speak to the enduring legacy of faith and artistic expression.
The Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves
The Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves take their names from their positions on three distinct stone cliffs. These cliffs were chosen as meditation retreats by Lama Awa Duidewa, a disciple of Prince Luo Zhepei, and his two fellow disciples. The Upper Cave once housed Awa Duidewa’s preserved body. Even centuries later, his face remained rosy and his complexion unchanged, resembling a meditating Buddha statue seated on a lotus throne. Pilgrims who witnessed this sight were filled with awe and reverence. Meanwhile, the Middle Cave features a statue of Prince Luo Zhepei, renowned for using his wisdom sword to subdue a mischievous dragon. Finally, the Lower Cave houses a statue of Gengzeng Lamo herself, who repented, converted to Buddhism, and attained immortality. These captivating stories have contributed to the enduring fame of the Guanyin Caves.
How to get to Mati Temple
• The Mati Temple is located approx. 57 kilometers (35.4 miles) south of Zhangye.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the Mati Temple.