White Cloud Taoist Temple (1/5)

One of China's major Taoist temples, this is now the headquarters of the China Taoist Association. The Baiyun (White Cloud) Temple in West District of Beijing is the largest Taoist establishment in Beijing. It is remarkable for its age. It was originally founded in 739 AD. It has since been burned down and been rebuilt, hence most of the buildings now date from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The temple conducts traditional Taoist ceremonies and is crowded with bearded monks and their followers -- and tourists -- on Taoist holy days. The fair at Chinese New Year is particularly noteworthy. (China.org.cn)