Yunju Temple is one of the cultural highlights of Western Beijing. And now it's applying for United Nations World Cultural Heritage status. The official campaign was launched Friday.

The Yunju temple is world-renowned for its 14,000 Buddhist sutras. Many of the sutras were made over six dynasties spanning 1,000 years. More than 1,000 sutras are completely carved in stone.

Yun Guirong, director of Yunju Temple Heritage Admin. Dept. said, "In Chinese history, these many stone Buddhist sutras are rarely seen. It's remarkable for Chinese culture, and a great contribution to the world's cultural heritage."

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Northern China, and the region has many temples. But most are in ruins or are no longer religious centers. Yunju Temple, however, is one of the best-preserved temples of the region. Many are eagerly awaiting the decision whether to include it in the UN World Cultural Heritage list.

(CCTV.com March 29, 2004)