Da Yan Pagoda

Da Yan Pagoda is also called the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda(see this link to understand why). It is home to many texts and figurines of Buddha that were brought from India. The pagoda has been rebuilt three times. The first time is was built in 652AD but collapsed due to poor construction. It was rebuilt in 704AD but was heavily damaged in 1554AD by an earthquake. It was then reconstructed and now stands seven stories tall.

Just outside of the pagoda is a temple for prayer.

All around the pagoda is a garden that is home to many different bells and sculptures.

I have seen these rocks with writing on them at almost every temple or pagoda we go to. They always sound so smart and enlightening but I think they really say
"Keep of the grass!!"

Just outside the pagoda is a small park that has many monk and warrior statues.

Stone dragon spitting water.

The last picture above doesn't have much to look at but there is one thing noticeable. Look behind the bridge and you'll see a little over half a dozen apartment buildings being constructed. This is a very common site here in China as the construction business is booming. In China, the concept of a single family home is almost unheard of(unless your a rich movie star or super high government official). You can't "spread out" like you can in the US, so the only way is up! The way it works is, the government will take your apartment once the entire building has become old and give you two new apartments in it's place, usually inconveniently placed outside of town. They then destroy the old property and build these new skyscraper like apartment towers which are quite expensive. Sometimes they don't even get rented and stay vacant because of the price. Getting an apartment here is very, very important! Almost all families(the parents) will not allow a couple to get married until the male has an apartment. The parents may help them to put down the installment for a place or you might just have to live with your parents until you have enough money.