The Temple of Azure Clouds is one of the most delicate temples in the Fragrant Hills Park. Built around 1331 in the Yuan Dynasty, it has a history of more than 600 years. This complex used to be a nunnery. It was not until 1514 during which eunuch Yu Jing renovated and expanded the temple that it became the Temple of Azure Clouds.
The most eye-catching feature of the Temple of Azure Clouds is its well-preserved historical and cultural relics, especially the Throne Pagoda. In 1748, Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty ordered another extension and a new Indian style throne pagoda was established inside the temple. It is said that the Emperor received a tributary throne pagoda model from India and the idea occurred to him to build a larger one just like it. Later, Emperor Qianlong wrote the story himself and ordered to have it inscribed on a tablet. This tablet was placed behind the Throne Pagoda was established and serves as a reminder of the history of this gorgeous pagoda.
On the first floor of the Throne Pagoda, you can find the cenotaph of Sun Yat-sen. In March 12th, 1925, Dr. Sun died in Beijing of illness, and his coffin was placed in the Temple of Azure Clouds. Later his coffin was moved away, and people built this cenotaph in memory of him and of his great contributions to China.
Apart from its historical values, the Throne Pagoda is also a very good viewing site because it stands on the highest spot of the temple. From inside the pagoda, you can enjoy all the beautiful scenes of the temple along with part of the Fragrant Hills.
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