Guide to Chinese Buddhism

This book offers a comprehensive guide to the many people, places and things associated with Buddhism in China. These include world famous historical and cultural sites like grottoes with treasure-troves of Buddhist art; sacred Buddhist mountains; temples, pagodas, and monasteries; sutras translated into Chinese from the original Sanskrit and other Indian languages; Buddhist emperors and other prominent Buddhists in Chinese history as well as the many Chinese monks, nuns and lay people who practice Buddhists today. Besides background information on Chinese Buddhist beliefs, history, art, and architecture - that will enhance any visit to a major Buddhist site - the book offers practical features such as a glossary of Chinese Buddhist terms, basic layout of a Buddhist temple, directory of the major temples by province, list of major festivals, and suggested readings.