Badachu

A cluster of eight Buddhist temples and shrines scattered across the wooded slopes of a hill in the western suburbs, its name meaning the eight great sites. Ranging in age from the Tang dynasty onward, the temples are linked by paths climbing through pine and cypress woods, with one hall said to enshrine a relic tooth of the Buddha. The forested grounds turn brilliant in autumn and are laced with springs and pavilions. A cable car and a toboggan run ease the ascent, drawing city dwellers year-round.