Fahai Temple's historic frescoes are displayed within its Mahavira Hall.[Photo/CRIENGLISH.com]

The temple itself is quite pleasant, with thousand-year-old white bark pine trees and quiet garden grounds. Viewers have to keep looking behind the halls to discover more staircases, halls, and impressive views.

Fahai Temple is outside of the city centre, but it's not too hard to find. Everyone in the bustling market nearby will point you in the right direction. It's worth the trek out to gaze upon the well-preserved craft methods of the top imperial painters and their cronies.

Temple entry including the protected frescoes: 100 yuan (50 yuan without frescoes)

Directions: From Pingguoyuan subway station, take bus 331or 336 to Shou Gang Xiao Qu, and walk through 200m through the street market.