Jokhang
Temple
Situated in the centre of the old section of Lhasa, Jokhang Temple was
built in the mid-7th century A.D. and later extended by successive rulers,
it has now become a gigantic architectural complex. Located in the east,
facing to the west, it is a four storeyed temple with splendid golden
roofs. It has architectural feature of Tang Dynasty and also assimilated
very much features from both Nepalese and Indian Buddhist temples. The
murals in the temple mainly depict the life stories of historic characters.
The temple houses many historical relics since Tang Dynasty and statues
of King Songtesn Gampo, Princess Wencheng, Princess Bhrikuti Devi. 'Princess
Willow' (a tree), and 'The Uncle-Nephew Alliance Tablet' can be seen at
the front gate of the temple.
Barkhor
Barkhor is the oldest street in Lhasa. In the past, it was only a circumambulation
circuit, 'a saint road ' in the eyes of Tibetan. Now it's also a shopping
center with nation characteristics. It's an old district with colorful
Tibetan features. Tibetan houses line the street, and the ground is paved
with man-made flagstones, preserving the ancient look. In the street,
you can find satisfactory souvenirs, and experience the mysterious 'one
step one kowtow' faith to religion.
All the houses along the street are stores. All kinds of fantastic commodities
show us all aspects of the Tibetan life. Such as: Thangkas, copper Buddha,
prayer wheels, butter lamps, prayer flags with sutras, beads, Tibetan
joss sticks, cypress, etc. Household goods in shops are in abundant, such
as: cushion, Pulu, aprons, leather bag, harness, snuff bottles, steels,
Tibetan-style quilts, Tibetan-style shoes, clasp knives, Tibetan-style
hats, butter, butter pots, wooden bowls, Highland Barley Wine, sweet milk
tea, milk residue, air-dried beef and mutton, etc. All kinds of tourist
products, cheap but good, can be found in the 1,000-meter-long street.
Bakhor Street is a human landscape miniature of Lhasa, even in the whole
Tibet. The old circumambulation circuit is always crowded with pilgrims
from everywhere. Some come along the road by performing the body-long
kowtows, some come by truck. Some are monks, and some are businessmen
from Kham. In a word, here you will find people from all over Tibet. You
can enjoy different dresses, and languages. Even the similar-looking dresses
of the monks vary depending on the different religions. Bakhor Street
is the window to view the Tibetan area, which is silently telling the
history of Lhasa.
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