A folk society was established on Dec 28 in Shanxi to explore the history and cultural development of Jinci Temple and to assist the historical site in applying to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Jinci Temple Culture Society gathers scholars and researchers across Shanxi who study folk culture and history, such as professors from the Department of History and Culture at Shanxi University and research workers from Jinci Temple Museum.

The society will set up a database to collect information about Jinci Temple and publicize the writings of related historical figures. In addition, a series of dramas, films, and literary works reflecting the culture of Jinci Temple will be created. Also, members of the society will propose suggestions for the protection and reconstruction of ancient villages according to research findings.

Shanxi Department of Civil Affairs and Shanxi Academy of Social Science will support the operations of the society.

Jinci Temple in Taiyuan is a temple complex with a history dating back more than 3,000 years. It was built in memory of Ji Yu, a prince in the Zhou Dynasty (1100-256 BC), for his contribution to improving the life of people in his kingdom. The temple was later expanded from the Northern Wei Dynasty (AD 386-534) to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), resulting in a diverse collection of more than 100 ancient sculptures, buildings, and bridges.