World Mixed Cultural and Natural Heritage: Mt. Emei and Leshan Giant Buddha (5)

(4) Mt. Emei is a bank of animal genes

Animals on Mt. Emei are from the transitional zone between the Palaearctic realm and the Oriental realm, but are closer to the Oriental realm with significant and typical characteristics. First, it has complex fauna, complete and rich species, and is a concentrated distribution area which is rare in the world. Second, it has significant regional distribution with clear horizontal and vertical belts, and has fauna from East Asia, South Asia and from plateaus. Third, it has many ancient, rare and endangered species, endemic species, type species and species from the Oriental region. Fourth, the effective conservation of the ancient and rare species has retained the original ecosystem and is an existing gene bank of animals. It also has high scientific value and is worthy of being protected.

(5) Mt. Emei has abundant relics of historical and Buddhist culture.

Mt. Emei has a long cultural history. According to available archaeological data, ancient ancestors had engaged in activities here about 10,000 years ago. Entering civilized society, there is more than 2,000 years of human history verified based on historical documents and relics. In such a long period of history, ancient ancestors have created glorious historical culture, leaving behind rich historical heritage. The introduction of Buddhism and the construction and prosperity of temples have added magical color for Mt. Emei, a magnificent and beautiful mountain. Religious culture, especially Buddhist culture, is the main part of the history and culture of the mountain. Buildings, statues, Buddhist implements, rituals, music and paintings all show the strong religious cultural flavor and vibrant color.

The art of temple buildings has fully highlighted the Buddhist culture of Mt. Emei and are special landscapes integrated with the natural environment and landscapes on the mountain. The mountain has more than 30 temples including 10 large scale temples with a long history. These temples have local architectural styles and are elegant, simple and unique in the light of local conditions. The location selection, design and construction all show the ingenuity, dignity and beauty of the buildings. Therefore, they can be called the model of the temple architecture in China's famous mountain landscapes.

Compared with other mountain landscapes in China, it is rare that Mt. Emei has abundant historical and cultural relics and Buddhist heritage, which is the crystallization and treasure of the long historical culture of Mt. Emei. Among them, many Buddhist relics and temple buildings have provided valuable information and evidence for researching the prosperity and development of Mt. Emei Buddhism, as well as the entire Buddhist history.