Until about the 1960s there were some 20 resident monks, but the numbers have dropped sharply in more recent times.

The monastery was built in 1849, and has a monk population of about 200, including 100 resident monks.

In addition, the temple has two attached living quarter for the resident monks.

The others were relatives of a resident monk.

However since the Cultural Revolution the number of resident monks has fallen to a few hundred.

In a January, 2004 article it is said to have had only 10 resident monks with 33 coming regularly for prayers.

The government cracked down by expelling the resident monks out of the country.

The new temple, although smaller, is more conveniently located and provides the local community with a resident monk.

Members of the community are free to speak with or visit the temple's resident monk at any time.

In return, the community is responsible for supporting the resident monk.