The Bell tower is an important building in Han Chinese Buddhist temples.[1] Together with Drum tower, they are usually placed on both sides of the Hall of Four Heavenly Kings.[1] It is usually on the left side while the Drum tower is usually on the right side.[1] It is general a three-storey pavilion with a large bell hung in it.[1] The loud and melodious sound of the bell is often used to convene monks.[1] In each morning and night, beating the bell 108 times symbolizes the relief of the 108 kinds of trouble in the human world.[2][3][4]
Bell tower | |||||||
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Traditional Chinese | 鐘樓 | ||||||
Simplified Chinese | 钟楼 | ||||||
Literal meaning | Bell tower | ||||||
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The Bell tower of Xiantong Temple was built in the Ming dynasty (1368–1644).[1][5] A biggest copper bell is stored in the tower.[1][5] It was cast between 1621 and 1627 during the Ming dynasty (1368–1644).[1][5] Weighing 4,999.75 kilograms (11,022.6 lb), it sounds deep and sonorous when beaten, which can pass away for 5-kilometre (3.1 mi) and last for several minutes.[1][5]