The Golden Hall(Jindian), embosomed in a dense forest of the Mingfeng Mountain, seven kilometres northeast of Kunming, is the largest bronze hall in China. It is approached by many long flights of stone steps which are sectioned by the three 'Heavenly Gates,' and terminated with the magnificent 'Taihe Palace.' Being cast in pure brass, it is commonly called 'Jade Steps Golden Temple'.
The predecessor of this peculiar structure was first built in 1802. Later it was removed to Jizu Mountain in Bingchuan County, Dali Prefecture. The present one was cast in 1670 by Wu San-gui, a well-known figure in Chinese history. The whole bronze structure weighs 250 tons and stands 6.7 metres in height and 7.8 metres in width, with a marble base carved in graceful relief. In front of the temple is a big brass cauldron ,while standing at its side is a flagpole with a flag at the Top, all cast in copper. On both sides of the golden temple are some nice chambers where elegant books and drawings as well as pretty potted landscape are on display.
The scenic splendour of the place is enhanced by another feature - a big camellia tree (called Butterfly's Wing), well-known throughout the province. The tree, some 7 metres in height, can boast of a history of 500 to 800 years. Around the time of Spring Festival hundreds of camellia blooms burst open, vying in their beauty and making a blaze of red color.
With a natural scenery mingled with sites of historical interest and man-made gardens, it is also a large scenic resort in Kunming. The '99 International Horticultural Exposition took place there.