Jiaochang Buddhist Monastery

Located in Jiaochang Village, Xin'ansuo Town, Mengzi City, Yunnan Province, Jiaochang Buddhist Monastery stands within a large pomegranate plantation at the entrance of the village. Also known as Jiaochang Temple or Jiaochang Monastery, it is closely connected with the local history of Xin'ansuo. Its name derives from the former "Jiaochang", a place traditionally associated with military inspection and troop training. Local historical remains, including the "General's Platform"and "Madaozi", preserve memories of the area's former military functions.

The original construction date of Jiaochang Buddhist Monastery remains unknown. The existing monastery was rebuilt in the second year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing dynasty (1876). After being approved for reopening in 1987, the temple continued to serve as a local religious site. In 1995, a new Mahavira Hall was constructed opposite the original temple area, expanding the scale of the religious complex.

Among the monastery's most significant cultural relics is a bronze bell cast in the 42nd year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming dynasty (1563) by Li Fengheng, commander of Lin'an Guard, together with Zeng Lun and Lu Qi. Standing 1.20 meters high with a diameter of 0.80 meters, the bell features an elaborate finial and inscriptions expressing wishes for national peace, prosperity, and favorable conditions. Recognized as a National Grade III Cultural Relic, the bell represents an important historical artifact preserved within the monastery.

Today, Jiaochang Buddhist Monastery remains an active place of worship, attracting local pilgrims throughout the year. It is also associated with Dongjing music performances by the Xin'ansuo Dongjing musicians, whose elegant and solemn melodies continue to accompany local religious and cultural activities.