Shaolin Temple in Henan Province

Stone Stupas

This is a forest of 200 stone reliquary monuments to memorialize the early Abbots. These are many centuries old. Each pagoda-like structure -- called a stupa -- houses the remains of a Shaolin elder known for his learning, virtue, or proficiency at the martial art of Kungfu. I think you got a higher stupa depending on your importance or maybe your likeability. They are also referred to a the "Forest of Pagodas." Picture courtesy of my friend Dot Garlow.