Yao Temple


The city of Linfen is situated in the southwestern part of the Shanxi Province, at the lower reaches of the Fen
River, covering an area of 1,304 square kilometers and with a population of about 680,000.

In ancient times Linfen was called Pingyang. It has a long history and is rich in cultural relics. According to
legend, Yaodi (an emperor, c. 23rd century B.C.) once established his capital here. Yao, a legendary ruler
with the personal name of "Fangxun' in ancient Chinese mythology, was the son of Emperor Ku and Qingdu,
the emperor's third concubine surnamed Chenfeng.

At the age of 15, Yao began to assist his elder brother Emperor Zhi in ruling the country. Thanks to his high
moral standards, his reputation spread far and wide and vassals all pledged allegiance to him. In the end,
Emperor Zhi gave the throne to Yao out of admiration for his ethics and talent. After ascending the throne, Yao was given the title "Emperor Yao".
During his reigning period, Emperor Yao put lots of outstanding people in important positions and made remarkable political achievements.

In his later years, Yao handed over the crown to Shun, who had exceptional talent and moral virtues. It is said that when Yao died, all the people
grieved as if they had lost their parents. For three years, music and recreational activities were banned as a way to pay tribute to the great man.

The Yao Temple is a must-see for anyone passing through Linfen. Yao Temple is an important cultural relic protected by Shanxi Province with
more than 1400 years history. It has been a place for people to offer sacrifices to Emperor Yao in different dynasties.

The temple now occupies an area of 5.33 hectares featuring mainly the ancient architectural complexes of Mountain Gate, Five-phoenix Tower,
Pavilion of Yao Well, Guangyun Palace and Imperial Bedroom.

Yao Temple was a state-level site of sacrifice throughout dynasties. A sacrificial ceremony was held here
every year on Apr. 28 till the end of Qing Dynasty, together with a temple fair, which was crowned as
imperial fair when Emperor Kangxi visited the temple. Since then, all Chinese of different nationalities from
different provinces or even those abroad would come all the way to offer sacrifice at the appointed time.