Shu Bao Ta (Tree-Wrapped Pagoda)
Dehong, China
One of the strangest tourist attractions in China is the Shu Bao Ta (Tiecheng Pagoda) located in the center of the Dehong City, Yunnan Province. It is also called the Tree-Wrapped Pagoda. Legend says that a seed of the banyan tree fell in the crack of the pagoda and grew into a large tree. Although most of the structure is covered by the branches, the image of the Buddha can be seen clearly because that part has remained clear over centuries! There are beautiful murals and Dai sutras on the walls. The four brightly-colored steeples and lion-statues in the four directions around the temple add to its uniqueness.
