What Does Shichahai Mean?
Shichahai literally means "the lake of ten temples." Surrounding the lake are ten famous Taoist temples, Buddhist monasteries, and several official royal mansions and gardens. Among them, the most renowned are the Prince Gong's Mansion and the Prince Chun's Mansion.
Reference : Shichahai: History, Scenery, and Culture
Origin of the Name Shichahai
The name Shichahai originates from "Shicha Sea" in Buddhism, also known as the "Sea of Ten Monasteries," one of the famous holy lakes in Buddhism. Originally, there were indeed ten Buddhist temples around Shichahai, hence the name. Its history can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty, when this area was the main commercial and transportation center of Beijing.
Historical and Cultural Heritage of Shichahai
Shichahai is not only a historical and cultural tourist scenic spot in Beijing but also one of Beijing's historical and cultural protection areas, as well as an important historical and cultural area within the inner city of Beijing. This area carries rich historical and cultural heritage, including numerous historical buildings, relics, and cultural legacies. Famous buildings and relics such as the Prince Gong's Mansion, the former residence of Song Qingling, and the former residence of Guo Moruo all have extremely high historical and cultural value.
Important Carrier of Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Shichahai area is also an important carrier of intangible cultural heritage in Beijing. It hosts a variety of cultural activities and folk performances, such as Peking Opera and shadow puppetry. These intangible cultural heritages represent the essence of Chinese traditional culture and hold significant historical and cultural value.
Attraction as a Tourist Destination
As a famous tourist destination in Beijing, Shichahai attracts a large number of visitors every year. Visitors can experience the charm and historical cultural heritage of old Beijing here, taste various delicacies and local snacks. Moreover, there are diverse cultural activities and folk performances, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese culture.
Q&A
Q1: What is the significance of the name "Shichahai" in relation to Buddhism?
A1: The name "Shichahai" originates from Buddhism and translates to "the lake of ten temples" or "the Sea of Ten Monasteries." It signifies the presence of ten Buddhist temples surrounding the lake, highlighting the area's religious importance.
Q2: How does Shichahai contribute to Beijing's intangible cultural heritage?
A2: Shichahai serves as an important carrier of Beijing's intangible cultural heritage. It hosts various cultural activities and folk performances like Peking Opera and shadow puppetry, preserving and promoting traditional Chinese culture.