This ancient tree, steeped in legend and history, attracts thousands of tourists who come to witness the breathtaking beauty of its golden fall each year.A Towering Legacy of Gold: The ancient ginkgo of Gu Guanyin Temple
High in the Zhongnan Mountains, within the peaceful walls of the Gu Guanyin Buddhist Temple, stands a towering ancient ginkgo tree, now 1,400 years old. Each autumn, this remarkable tree draws visitors from far and wide, as its vibrant green leaves turn into a glowing yellow cascade. These golden leaves blanket the temple courtyard, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.
The ginkgo tree, also known as Ginkgo biloba, is often called the "tree of longevity" due to its incredible lifespan. It holds the distinction of being the oldest living tree species on Earth, having existed for approximately 270 million years. Ginkgo trees have survived multiple mass extinction events, including the one that wiped out the dinosaurs, which highlights their resilience and tenacity.This particular ginkgo, located at Gu Guanyin Temple, is steeped in history. Legend claims that the tree was planted by Emperor Taizong of the Tang dynasty in 628 AD, the same year the temple was built. Over the centuries, it has grown into a monumental figure, attracting thousands of tourists every autumn. The stunning sight of the temple courtyard draped in golden leaves has become a seasonal pilgrimage for many, drawing both travelers and locals to witness its beauty.
Despite nearly being wiped out during the last ice age, ginkgo trees were saved through the dedicated efforts of Tibetan monks who began cultivating them about 4,000 years ago. These monks planted ginkgos in the Himalayas, preserving the species that we see today. Revered for its spiritual significance in both Daoism and Buddhism, the ginkgo is also known as the "tree of enlightenment." Its medicinal properties have been cherished for centuries, adding to its cultural and spiritual importance throughout Asia.This ancient tree, with its vibrant golden leaves and deep historical roots, is a testament to the endurance of nature and the spiritual connection humanity shares with it. Each year, the golden transformation of this ginkgo tree serves as a reminder of the beauty of life, growth, and the passage of time.
High in the Zhongnan Mountains, within the peaceful walls of the Gu Guanyin Buddhist Temple, stands a towering ancient ginkgo tree, now 1,400 years old. Each autumn, this remarkable tree draws visitors from far and wide, as its vibrant green leaves turn into a glowing yellow cascade. These golden leaves blanket the temple courtyard, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.
The ginkgo tree, also known as Ginkgo biloba, is often called the "tree of longevity" due to its incredible lifespan. It holds the distinction of being the oldest living tree species on Earth, having existed for approximately 270 million years. Ginkgo trees have survived multiple mass extinction events, including the one that wiped out the dinosaurs, which highlights their resilience and tenacity.This particular ginkgo, located at Gu Guanyin Temple, is steeped in history. Legend claims that the tree was planted by Emperor Taizong of the Tang dynasty in 628 AD, the same year the temple was built. Over the centuries, it has grown into a monumental figure, attracting thousands of tourists every autumn. The stunning sight of the temple courtyard draped in golden leaves has become a seasonal pilgrimage for many, drawing both travelers and locals to witness its beauty.Despite nearly being wiped out during the last ice age, ginkgo trees were saved through the dedicated efforts of Tibetan monks who began cultivating them about 4,000 years ago. These monks planted ginkgos in the Himalayas, preserving the species that we see today. Revered for its spiritual significance in both Daoism and Buddhism, the ginkgo is also known as the "tree of enlightenment." Its medicinal properties have been cherished for centuries, adding to its cultural and spiritual importance throughout Asia.This ancient tree, with its vibrant golden leaves and deep historical roots, is a testament to the endurance of nature and the spiritual connection humanity shares with it. Each year, the golden transformation of this ginkgo tree serves as a reminder of the beauty of life, growth, and the passage of time. 
